Skin Reconstruction Surgery
As reconstructive plastic surgery specialists, we are often asked to perform skin reconstruction on a variety of different problems. There’s several reasons why someone might need to undergo skin reconstruction surgery, such as covering large defected areas of skin from trauma, burns or cancer removal.
Reconstructive techniques vary and in plastic surgery, the most basic reconstructive option is direct closure and/ or undermining of the skin. If the area to be closed is too large, the alternative would be the use of local flaps or skin grafts. Very occasionally, the patient can leave the wound to heal by secondary intention.
Nights In Hospital
For simple skin grafts and local flaps, you can usually leave the hospital the same day. However, complex reconstruction might require 1-3 nights in hospital to fully recover.
Recovery
Skin reconstruction usually takes 2 to 3 weeks to heal, but supportive garments are recommended to be worn for around 6 weeks post-surgery. Mr Ross will discuss this with you and suggest recommendations after the routine check-up.
Full Results
Full scar maturation takes 12 to 18 months for complex skin reconstruction. However, this can vary depending on what procedure you’ve had done.
Gary Ross, MBChB, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Mr Ross has over 20 years of experience within the industry here in the heart of Manchester, with his career starting at the Christie’s Hospital and specialising in skin reconstruction procedures. Mr Ross is a member of the:
- The General Medical Council (GMC)
- The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)
- The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
- The Association of Breast Surgeons (ABS)
- The British Association of Head and Neck Oncologists (BAHNO)
- First plastic surgeon recognised by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCSENG).
- Certification from iWantGreatCare with over 700 reviews.
Mr Ross’ work has been so impactful that it has led to several scientific contributions.
Types of Skin Reconstruction
Tissue Expansion
For tissue expansion, an expander is placed under the skin near the wound and gradually filled with saline over weeks to stretch the surrounding tissue so it can be used for repair.
Skin Grafts
A skin graft is a technique of removing the skin from one area of the body and placing it on another. The blood supply to the graft develops over a number of days to weeks. Depending upon what is involved, skin grafts take the form of either full-thickness grafts or split-thickness.
Skin Flaps
If you undergo a skin flap procedure, you’ll have healthy skin, fat or muscle moved to the repair site while maintaining its original blood supply. This method can be done using local flaps or free flaps. Local flaps rotate the healthy skin into the defect area, whereas free flaps are the most complex as it’s when tissue is completely detached from one part of the body to the defect area.
About Skin Reconstruction Surgery
Skin reconstruction surgery typically takes between 1 to 2 hours for simple procedures like local skin flaps or grafts, but can range up to 10 to 12 hours for complex surgeries. The exact process depends on the size and location of the wound and the procedure is typically broken down into a few specific approaches, including skin grafting, local flap reconstruction and tissue expansion.
With standard skin reconstruction, the skin is placed or shifted into the damaged area and then secured with stitches, staples or surgical glue. Dressings will then be placed tightly over the grafted area.
Skin Reconstruction Preparation
Before undergoing your skin reconstruction, it’s recommended that you do the following starting at least 6 weeks before:
- Stop smoking and using nicotine products.
- Stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Stop taking certain herbal supplements and vitamins.
It’s normal to experience some discomfort following your skin reconstruction surgery. As recovery times vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, such as whether you have had a simple skin graft or a more complex flap reconstruction, you’ll need time off work to rest. Please note that supportive garments are recommended to be worn for around 6 weeks post-surgery.
After the Surgery
The healing process for this type of procedure usually takes around 3 weeks, although you may experience some soreness, bruising and swelling during this time. Please follow Mr. Ross’ instructions to keep the surgical site clean and dry. We recommend wearing supportive garments for around 6 weeks post-surgery to ensure that you heal effectively.
While you can resume normal activities after a few weeks, avoid strenuous exercise until Mr. Ross has cleared you. Regular checkups are recommended, along with continued self-examinations to manage your progress.
Side Effects of Skin Reconstruction
Skin reconstruction generally has a high success rate, but just like all surgeries, it carries common side effects and risks, including temporary numbness, swelling, scarring and minor bleeding. If you are concerned about any side effects of surgery, get in touch with Mr. Ross for a discussion about your progress.
Skin Reconstruction FAQs
Skin reconstruction is highly suitable for individuals with healthy wound beds who need to cover large defects from trauma, burns or cancer removal. However, there’s several reasons why skin grafts or tissue expansion might not be for you, including if you have an active infection, avascular wound beds or active cancer. If you’re considered high risk or a heavy smoker, we would also advise against the procedure. It’s important to speak with Mr. Ross to discuss your suitability for the procedure.
If you do smoke, then your surgeon will discuss the benefits of giving up smoking months before your procedure. It’s also crucial to keep your expectations reasonable if you’re going to undergo the surgery.
After a consultation with Gary Ross, we will provide you with a quote for your surgery. Quotes include hospital, surgeon and anaesthetic fees. The cost of your procedure will vary depending on the type of surgery you’ve had, with the more complex procedures like free flaps typically costing more. Check out the cost of procedures on our website.
Private hospitals are known for their high levels of comfortability, which will be very important after your skin reconstruction surgery. You’ll have the chance to hand pick your own surgeon at the
Alexandra Hospital and Gary Ross is always a popular choice for his high attention to detail regarding your procedure. As one of the most accredited private hospitals in the UK, patients leave the experience feeling well-rested and prepared for recovery.
Your first consultation will consist of a careful conversation about what we believe the best treatment route is for you. You’ll then speak with our oncological team to ensure your surgery is safe and tailored to your health profile.
