Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery can include a wide array of operations such as breast reconstruction following lumpectomy or mastectomy procedures; surgery to correct congenital defects and developmental abnormalities such as a cleft lip or cleft palate; scar revision surgery; and surgery to restore natural appearance following removal of a skin cancer or burns. In all cases, the idea is to improve or restore the body’s natural appearance and ability to function properly. Physicians who specialize in reconstructive surgery include plastic surgeons as well as head and neck surgeons (called otolaryngologists), general surgeons, gynecology and pediatric surgeons, and podiatrists. As opposed to cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery is typically covered by most insurance plans, with up to one million such procedures taking place every year.