The term “plastic surgery” was coined from the Greek word “plastikos,” which means to shape. Initially, this type of surgery was only considered for cosmetic purposes. But currently, it has become an integral part of medical services, helping patients reconstruct their physical features after suffering serious injuries or chronic diseases like cancer. This type of plastic surgery is commonly referred to as reconstructive surgery. In this article, you will learn when plastic surgery is considered necessary.
Plastic Surgeries That Are Medically Important?
Plastic surgery that is medically important should improve the health or function of your body. Although most of these procedures can also be used for cosmetic purposes, they are normally designed to restore your health and normal body functions. Here are some of the main types of plastic surgeries that are medically necessary.
Craniofacial Surgery
Through craniofacial surgery, a plastic surgeon can correct cleft lips and palates. This procedure is a sub-specialization of plastic surgery designed to treat children born with facial defects. Plastic surgeons who specialize in this type of surgery normally treat children with cleft lips and cleft palates. They also handle rare congenital and genetic defects, such as Apert syndrome, Pfeiffer syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, craniosynostosis, and Treacher Collins syndrome.
Reconstructive Surgery
As mentioned above, reconstructive surgery helps restore a patient’s physical appearance after severe illness or injury. So, suppose you have sustained serious injuries from a car accident, animal bite, or a traumatic incident. In that case, a plastic surgeon will help you fix significant scarring and restore your appearance to what it was before the injury.
Alteration of a Deviated Septum
If you were born with a deviated septum, causing difficulty breathing, sinus infections, or heavy snoring, it could be corrected by a plastic surgeon. This procedure also has a cosmetic element that ensures your nose looks correct after surgery.
Breast Reduction
If your breasts are not disproportionate to your body, especially those unnaturally large, they will cause physical strain to your back, resulting in back problems and neck and shoulder pain. The best way to deal with this problem is to have your breasts reduced by a plastic surgeon.
Eyelid Lifting
Also referred to as blepharoplasty, an eyelid lift is medically necessary because it helps restore your entire vision range by lifting the sagging eyelid. If your eyelid hangs so low, it will cover your eyelashes and the corner of your eye, affecting your ability to see. A plastic surgeon trims the excess skin and tightens the loose tissues to restore your vision.
For more details about plastic surgery, talk to Dr. Alspaugh right away.
