BURN RECONSTRUCTION

Burn Reconstruction2024-12-05T11:28:42+02:00

What is Burn Reconstruction?

Burn reconstruction surgery aims to minimise the appearance of burns, alleviate pain caused by contractures, and improve mobility. Burns can cause extensive scarring, functional limitations, and loss of sensation. While surgical intervention cannot completely erase burn scars, it can significantly reduce their prominence and improve quality of life.

For many burn patients, reconstructive surgery is a long-term journey. Scar tissue treatments often require months to yield results, and new contractures may form years after the initial injury, particularly in younger patients who are still growing. The relationship between a burn patient and their reconstructive surgeon is therefore one of ongoing care and collaboration to address these evolving needs.

What is involved in the Burn Reconstruction Procedure?

The procedure for burn surgery is first to assess the goals.  The goals of reconstructive burn surgery should be to improve both the function and the cosmetic appearance of burn scars. This involves altering scar tissue, with both non-operative and operative treatment.

1 | Non-Operative Treatments

  • These therapies aim to manage scar tissue and improve comfort:
    • Scar massage to reduce stiffness and improve mobility.
    • Pressure garments to flatten scars and promote healing.
    • Topical treatments to soften and improve the appearance of scars.

2 | Surgical Options

When surgery is required, the primary focus is on releasing tight scar tissue to restore mobility and functionality. Techniques include: 

  • Skin grafts: Transferring healthy skin from another part of the body to cover scarred areas. 
  • Skin flaps: Moving adjacent healthy tissue to cover damaged regions. 
  • Tissue expansion: Stretching healthy skin to create new tissue for reconstruction, particularly effective for scars on the face, trunk, and neck.

Each patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their individual needs and goals. My aim is to achieve meaningful improvements in appearance and function, supporting patients on their journey to recovery.

surgery

FAQ

How to plan for Burn Reconstruction?2024-12-03T12:42:16+02:00

To plan for burn surgery first make a consultation to come and see me. During the consultation, I will assess your burn scarring and we will discuss your expectations so that you have a good understanding of what can be achieved and what the realistic expectations should be.

I will need a full medical history, including all previous procedures and medical conditions.

We will also discuss risks and complications of burn surgery.

How to prepare for Burn Reconstruction?2024-12-03T12:42:04+02:00

To prepare for burn surgery, you may be asked to stop smoking for 2 – 4 weeks prior to the procedure. Nicotine retards the healing process, and quitting for as long as possible before surgery helps improve blood flow.

You might also have to have a blood test before surgery is performed.

During the consultation be sure to disclose what medication, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. I may need to adjust this leading up to surgery. You should avoid certain medications like aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs. You may also need to stop taking some vitamins and supplements. Avoid any recreational drugs.

Be sure to arrange for transport to and from the clinic. You will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.

What to expect after Burn Reconstruction?2024-12-03T12:41:51+02:00

After burn surgery you can expect to be given post-surgery instructions to follow. This is very important in order to obtain the best possible outcome both in terms of functional healing and physical appearance.

You will have follow-up appointments after burn surgery to assess your long-term results and address any questions or concerns.

Recovery time will depend on the procedure. In general, skin grafts require 7 to 10 days without any movement of the skin graft. A specialised dressing is used to help the skin graft adhere to the wound and begin healing.

Smaller operations (scar revisions) may only require a soft dressing afterwards.

After scar releases on the hand, you may have a plaster splint for support.

Follow-up visits are normally within two weeks of surgery and stitches may be removed at this time. Additional physical therapy may be required in the weeks and months following surgery to ensure complete recovery of function. We will work together to develop the plan that is best for you.

Be patient with your healing. As you heal your skin colour and appearance will change. You may notice numbness and tingling this is normal. Improvement will continue over the next few months.

What is the risk of Burn Reconstruction?2024-12-03T12:41:37+02:00

The biggest risk of burn surgery is an infection at the surgical site. Look out for changes and let me know if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • White pimples or blisters around the incision lines.
  • An increase in redness, tenderness, or swelling.
  • Occasionally, a small amount of bloody or clear yellow-tinged fluid may drain. Notify me if it persists or if the consistency changes.
  • A sudden increase in pain not relieved by pain medication.

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Enhancing your appearance can have wonderful positive effects on your self-esteem, confidence and happiness.
It’s an empowering decision that is yours to make, and we are here to help you reach that dream.

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