Microsurgical facial reconstruction encompasses different surgical techniques applied both in the treatment of congenital pathologies and those acquired by diseases or sequelae of trauma that have caused the loss of part of the structure of the face or its functionality.
Although they involve a great complexity, the advanced microscopic techniques of transplantation of tissues from the same patient allow the reconstruction of the face with success.
Why is it performed?
Among the congenital pathologies that can be solved, different types of facial paralysis and atrophies that prevent the correct mobility of the muscles and structures of the jaw and/or eyes, as well as facial expressiveness (for example, Parry-Romberg Syndrome, Moebius Syndrome, or Binder Syndrome, among others), stand out.
What does it consist of?
Facial microsurgery is responsible for replacing the affected facial areas and recovering both their appearance and the lesions that hinder their functionality, through individualized techniques of tissue transplants, nerve and muscle grafts. Currently, given the characteristics of this area of the human anatomy. Therefore, depending on each case, several surgical interventions may be necessary in phases to achieve a complete solution to the patient’s pathology.
Care after the intervention
Depending on the severity of the process and the reconstructive technique used, patients may be operated on an outpatient basis, without hospitalization, with removal of stitches a week later in the office or require hospitalization for more than 10 days.
What are the risks involved in this operation?
As in any surgical procedure, there are risks inherent to anesthesia, risks specific to each technique and disease, and risks associated with the patient’s medical history. Complications are directly related to the severity of the process, time of intervention, health status, age of the patient and experience of the surgeon. In addition, bleeding, infection and total or partial loss of the flap may occur. It is important to know that all of them have a solution.