Facial deformities can arise from various causes such as congenital conditions, trauma, or as the aftermath of surgery, like tumor-removal surgery or Mohs surgery. These deformities can affect not only the appearance but also the function of the face. Dr. Donath specializes in addressing these challenges through facial reconstruction surgery. In addition to his expertise in facial plastic surgery services, he also has a significant focus on the patient experience to ensure comfort and understanding throughout the process. Suitable candidates for this surgery typically exhibit:
-Congenital deformities impacting facial bones or soft tissues.
-Deformities resulting from injury or trauma, including traumatic injuries.
-Residual effects post-surgery for skin cancer or other medical conditions.
There are many different types of facial reconstructive procedures for several issues a patient may be facing. The varying types include the following.
A variety of techniques can repair facial cancer defects. These surgical experiences involve the use of adjacent healthy skin flaps or grafts and free tissue transfer.
Reconstructive options range from using adjacent healthy skin flaps or grafts to free tissue transfer, depending on the type of cancer and the extent of the damage.
With cosmetic surgery, cleft lip birth defects may correct in order to repair nostril asymmetry and lip deformity. Surgeons can perform this procedure on kids at the early age of three to six months.
Through surgery, cleft palate birth defects may correct, repairing the cleft and the roof of the mouth. Specialists can perform this procedure on children around the age of nine to twelve months.
Facial deformities caused by facial paralysis may be improved through a variety of surgical means, with the ultimate goal of improving facial symmetry and restoring facial animation.
To restore facial animation in patients with facial nerve paralysis, the reconstruction surgery technique plastic surgeons often use is tissue. They use tissue rearrangement techniques such as skin grafting, free-tissue transfer, or muscle transposition to help correct deformities caused by facial paralysis.
Facial trauma reconstruction is performed to correct facial fractures and/or facial lacerations that may have occurred from motor vehicle accidents, fights, domestic violence, animal bites, and the like. Surgery can correct fractures of the jawbone, cheekbone, eye socket, and brow, as well as lacerations resulting in scarring, facial nerve damage, tear duct injury, and loss of body part.
Depending on the individual case, a patient may be able to look forward to a functional outcome with reconstructive nose surgery. This type of surgery can help correct nasal deformities caused by birth defects, trauma, and cancer. The goal is to restore breathing normalcy and improve aesthetic appearance.
Microtia repair is the surgical correction of a missing ear. Creating an ear with rib cartilage and molding an ear lobe and crease treats his congenital defect.
To balance facial features and improve symmetry, specialists perform reconstructive ear surgeries. Such surgeries may include constructing artificial ears using rib cartilage or restoring symmetry with tissue flaps or grafts. Modern techniques and materials produce a very natural-appearing result that helps to boost self-confidence and enhance facial appearance.
Scar revision involves a variety of techniques designed to camouflage facial scars resulting from accidents, surgery, burns, or acne. Techniques may include surgery like surgical removal of scar tissue, skin flap surgery, skin grafts, and Z-plasty, as well as skin resurfacing procedures like dermabrasion and laser resurfacing.
The process of facial reconstruction starts with an initial consultation with Dr. Donath at the outpatient surgery center. During this crucial meeting, patients can expect:
During a consultation with Dr. Donath, he explains the intended procedure including the technique, the anesthesia, the surgical facility, the risks, and the costs. The doctor makes sure to also answer any questions or concerns that you may have.
Each facial reconstruction case is unique. Dr. Donath employs a variety of reconstructive techniques, ensuring a personalized approach for every patient. The surgical plan may include various techniques such as Tissue Transfer, Flap Surgery, and Microvascular Surgeries depending on the individual case.
This customization is key to ensuring that the reconstructive procedures not only improve appearance but also preserve or restore function to critical areas like the eye socket or natural folds of the face.
Facial Reconstructive Surgery Before & Afters
*Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Facial reconstruction surgery encompasses a range of procedures from minor surgeries to more invasive surgeries. Dr. Donath, an expert in facial plastic surgery, ensures that each patient is well-informed about their specific type of surgery. The process typically involves:
Facial Reconstructive Surgery Before & Afters
*Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Dr. Donath employs a range of advanced treatment options in facial reconstruction, staying at the forefront of the latest scientific discoveries. These include:
Dr. Donath’s board certification assures that he’s equipped with the knowledge and skill necessary for these innovative techniques.
Why choose Dr. Donath — Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
After reconstructive facial surgery, patients should expect to have some swelling and bruising that gradually subsides over several weeks. Dr. Alexander Donath gives patients detailed instructions on how to care for their surgical site and ensure optimal healing. He also offers post-operative follow-up visits to ensure the achievement of aesthetic goals and that the patient is progressing during their recovery period. Patients should follow all aftercare instructions closely to reduce any potential risks or side effects from the surgery.
Different from regular cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation, breast reduction, or tummy tuck, reconstruction surgery refers to plastic surgery procedures that are designed to improve function and sometimes approximate a normal appearance of abnormal structures of the body. There are many different types of reconstructive plastic surgery, and they may be used to treat both congenital defects and developmental deformities.
If you are looking to improve the function or appearance of a congenital or developmental defect, then reconstruction plastic surgery may be right for you. As with all surgery, patients should be physically healthy and realistic in their expectations. Dr. Donath is happy to meet with you for a consultation to help you decide if reconstructive plastic surgery can best address your needs.
In most cases, insurance will cover reconstructive surgery, especially when it’s needed after the loss or damage of a significant body part, such as the face or a breast following cancer treatment. This can also apply to facial reconstructive surgeries, like Mohs skin cancer reconstruction, where surgery is needed to restore areas affected by cancer removal. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage.
A reconstructive surgeon focuses on procedures that are often medically necessary, helping to repair parts of the body affected by injury, illness, or congenital conditions.
That said, these two specialties aren’t mutually exclusive. Many highly experienced surgeons are skilled in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, allowing them to offer expertise in restoring function as well as enhancing appearance, depending on the patient’s needs.
Like any surgery, reconstructive procedures do come with some risks. Potential complications can include things like infection, heavy bleeding, or bruising, but your surgeon will take steps to minimize these risks and ensure the best possible outcome.
Reconstructive surgery focuses on restoring areas of the body that have been altered due to congenital conditions, disease, or injury. Procedures such as cleft lip and palate repair or breast reconstruction are common examples of this type of surgery.
If you live in the states of Ohio or Kentucky, Donath Facial Plastic Surgery offers facial reconstruction among its services. For a full list of services, please visit our Locations page.
