Our Summary

This study looked at how often plastic surgeons were performing certain procedures (specifically rhinoplasty, eyelid procedures, and skin cancer reconstruction) compared to other specialists in the United States from 2007 to 2016. The research showed that over time, plastic surgeons were performing these procedures less often, while specialists like ear, nose, and throat doctors (otolaryngologists), eye doctors (ophthalmologists), and skin doctors (dermatologists) were doing them more. This was particularly true when the patient’s condition was something these specialists usually handle. The researchers suggest that plastic surgeons need to find ways to maintain their share of these procedures, as losing them could impact both their business and the training of future plastic surgeons.

FAQs

  1. What were the specific procedures this study focused on?
  2. Has the frequency of plastic surgeons performing certain procedures decreased over time?
  3. What implications could the decrease in the share of these procedures have for plastic surgeons?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about reconstructive surgery is to carefully research and choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in the specific procedure you are considering. It’s important to have open and honest communication with your surgeon about your goals, expectations, and any concerns you may have. Additionally, following your surgeon’s pre and post-operative instructions closely can help ensure a successful outcome and optimal healing.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for reconstructive surgery typically include those who have:

  1. Physical deformities or abnormalities due to birth defects, accidents, or injuries
  2. Functional impairments that affect their quality of life, such as difficulty breathing due to a deviated septum or drooping eyelids affecting vision
  3. Skin cancer or other skin conditions that require removal and reconstruction of tissue
  4. Breast cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy and require breast reconstruction
  5. Burn victims who require skin grafts or other reconstructive procedures
  6. Individuals seeking gender-affirming surgery to align their physical appearance with their gender identity

Ultimately, the decision to undergo reconstructive surgery is a personal one and should be made in consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess the individual’s specific needs and goals.

Timeline

  • Before reconstructive surgery:
  1. Patient consults with plastic surgeon to discuss concerns and desired outcomes
  2. Plastic surgeon evaluates patient’s condition and discusses treatment options
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for surgery
  4. Surgery is scheduled and patient receives instructions for pre-operative care
  5. Patient undergoes reconstructive surgery
  • After reconstructive surgery:
  1. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period for any complications
  2. Patient follows post-operative care instructions provided by plastic surgeon
  3. Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns
  4. Patient may undergo additional procedures or treatments to optimize results, such as scar management or tissue expansion
  5. Patient enjoys improved appearance and function following successful reconstructive surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific experience do you have with this type of reconstructive surgery?
  2. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care needed?
  5. How many of these procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. Will there be scarring and if so, how noticeable will it be?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  8. What are the long-term effects or outcomes of this surgery?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions that I will need to follow after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone similar procedures?

Reference

Authors: Rochlin DH, Matros E, Sheckter CC. Journal: J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2022 Dec;75(12):4484-4493. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2022.08.071. Epub 2022 Aug 27. PMID: 36241505