Heal, Transform, Thrive

Lafayette Reconstructive Surgery at McGee Plastic Surgery

Reconstructive surgery uses specialized techniques to help individuals enhance their health and confidence following trauma, surgery, or other conditions that have left unwanted scars or changes in the appearance of areas of the face or body. Treatments like skin cancer removal and burn care are life-saving, but they can result in changes to your body that affect your self-image. Dr. Catherine McGee, MD, FACS is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced fellowship training in reconstructive surgery and microsurgery. She is driven by a desire to provide Lafayette reconstructive surgery patients with highly skilled care, revitalizing their self-esteem with exceptional cosmetic outcomes achieved through thoughtful and respectful collaboration with each patient.

Reconstructive Surgery Lafayette, LA Lafayette

A New Beginning

What is Reconstructive Surgery?

Reconstructive surgery is a specialized branch of plastic surgery focused on restoring the form and function of body parts that have been damaged or altered due to injury, disease, congenital conditions, or previous surgical procedures. It is concerned with repairing and rebuilding structures to improve a patient's overall health, as well as providing cosmetic repair and rejuvenation to restore the patient's self-image. Reconstructive surgery provides a path to fuller healing, with results that can be very empowering for the patient. Dr. Catherine McGee, MD, FACS is a Lafayette reconstructive specialist who regularly performs highly individualized procedures, including scar revision, Moh’s reconstruction, burn reconstruction, and skin cancer removal.

Scar Revision

Scar revision aims to improve the appearance of scars resulting from injuries, surgeries, or other causes. It involves techniques to minimize scar visibility, such as excision, microneedling, or topical treatments. The goal is to make scars less noticeable, smoother, and more closely matched to the surrounding skin, enhancing both aesthetics and confidence for individuals with prominent or bothersome scars. The choice of scar revision method depends on factors like scar type, size, and location, as well as individual patient goals and skin characteristics.

Mohs Reconstruction

Mohs reconstruction repairs the wound created after Mohs micrographic surgery, a precise method for removing skin cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. After cancer removal, Mohs reconstruction aims to close the wound aesthetically and functionally. It may involve various procedures, such as skin grafts, flaps, or primary closure, depending on the wound's size and location. The goal is to achieve optimal cosmetic results while ensuring wound healing and minimizing scarring. With advanced fellowship training and extensive experience in reconstructive surgery and microsurgery, Dr. McGee is a trusted choice for Lafayette Mohs reconstruction patients.

Burn Reconstruction

Burn reconstruction is a specialized branch of plastic surgery focused on restoring function and appearance to individuals who have suffered burn injuries. After the initial treatment of burn wounds, which involves wound cleaning, debridement, and grafting, burn reconstruction comes into play. Dr. McGee may perform procedures such as skin grafts, tissue expansion, and scar revisions to improve both the physical and aesthetic aspects of the affected areas. The goal is to enhance mobility, minimize scarring, and help patients regain their self-esteem and quality of life. Burn reconstruction requires a highly skilled and compassionate approach to address the unique challenges posed by burn injuries.

Skin Cancer Removal

Dr. McGee offers leading care for skin cancer removal in Lafayette. Skin cancer removal procedures eliminate cancerous growths or lesions from the skin, typically excising the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure complete removal. Various techniques depending on the type, size, and location of the skin cancer. After removal, the excised tissue is often sent for pathology examination to confirm that all cancer cells have been eradicated. Skin cancer removal aims to eliminate the cancer while minimizing scarring and preserving the skin's function and aesthetics. Dr. McGee also specializes in post-Mohs reconstruction to repair the cosmetic appearance of the treatment area after skin cancer removal by Mohs surgery.

Care to Help You Heal

What are the benefits of Reconstructive Surgery?

Reconstructive surgery can offer numerous physical and psychological benefits for individuals who have undergone surgery or experienced trauma that resulted in damage. It helps restore the function and appearance of affected body parts with the goal of improving overall quality of life. For example, with reconstructive surgery patients can have damaged facial features repaired, allowing them to regain their confidence and sense of self. It can also alleviate physical discomfort and pain, enhancing comfort and mobility.

Moreover, reconstructive surgery can have profound emotional benefits. It can aid in the psychological healing process, as it often allows individuals to regain a sense of normalcy and self-esteem. This emotional boost can lead to improved mental health and a more positive outlook on life. Reconstructive surgery also plays a vital role in rehabilitation, helping patients recover from trauma or surgery more effectively. Overall, the benefits of reconstructive surgery extend beyond physical restoration, encompassing emotional well-being as well.

Dedicated to Excellence. Committed to You.

Your Reconstructive Surgery Consultation

You deserve to have restored function, improved quality of life and feel good about your appearance at every stage of your life, including after surgery or trauma that has left telltale signs on your body. Dr. Catherine McGee, MD, FACS cares deeply about lending her surgical expertise and passion for excellence in the service of helping her patients live full, joyful lives. At McGee Plastic Surgery, Lafayette reconstructive surgery patients receive outstanding patient-centered care at every stage of their journey of healing and revitalization. Schedule your consultation with Dr. McGee today to discuss your needs and learn about cutting-edge techniques that can help you achieve your goals.

Inspired Approaches

Your Reconstructive Surgery Procedure

In reconstructive surgery procedures like scar revision, Mohs reconstruction, or burn reconstruction, various techniques are employed to achieve optimal results. Scar revision typically involves excising the old scar tissue and using meticulous closure techniques to create a more aesthetically pleasing and functional outcome. This may include Z-plasty or W-plasty to redistribute tension and minimize scar visibility.

For Mohs reconstruction, the goal is to restore the tissue removed during Mohs surgery for skin cancer. Techniques like skin grafts, local flaps, or complex tissue rearrangement are often used to close the defect while preserving function and appearance.

Burn reconstruction aims to improve both form and function. Skin grafting, where healthy skin is transplanted to the burned area, is a common technique. Tissue expanders may be utilized to stretch healthy skin for larger burn wounds. In more severe cases, microsurgery techniques like free tissue transfer can be employed to restore blood supply and function. Ultimately, the choice of technique depends on the specific patient's needs, the extent of the damage, and Dr. McGee’s careful tailoring of surgical approaches to achieve the best possible outcome.

Recover Self Confidence

Reconstructive Surgery Recovery and Aftercare

After reconstructive surgery, the aftercare and recovery process is essential for achieving the best possible results. Recovery varies depending on the type and complexity of the surgery but generally involves some common elements. Patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which typically subside over time. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection. It's crucial to follow post-operative instructions meticulously, including following instructions for wound care, restricting activity levels as required, and attending all follow-up appointments.

Recovery times can range from a few weeks to several months, and patients may need to take time off work or limit strenuous activities during this period. Scar management, including the use of silicone sheets or gels, may be recommended to improve the appearance of surgical scars. Emotional support is also vital during this phase, as patients may experience a range of emotions related to the surgery's outcomes.

Overall, a successful recovery from reconstructive surgery requires patience, adherence to medical advice, and close communication with our surgical team to address any concerns or complications promptly.

Your Future is Beautiful

Reconstructive Surgery Results

The results of reconstructive surgery can vary widely depending on the specific procedure and the individual patient's case. The primary goal of reconstructive surgery is to restore function and improve aesthetics, helping you feel good about your physical appearance for an improved quality of life following surgery or trauma. Reconstructive surgery can enhance a person's self-esteem, self-confidence, and well-being by addressing physical concerns or functional limitations. The extent of improvement varies based on the procedure's complexity and the patient's unique needs.

While the goal is to achieve natural-looking results, scarring is an inherent part of surgery, and its visibility can vary. Post-operative care and scar management can help optimize the final outcome. We work closely with you from the planning stage and throughout your recovery, offering support to promote excellent healing and the confidence that comes with a more positive self-image.

Reconstructive SurgeryFrequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate for reconstructive surgery?

Suitability for reconstructive surgery depends on your specific medical condition, goals, and overall health. Ideal candidates typically have a medical need for the procedure, such as repairing damage from surgery, trauma, congenital issues, or cancer removal. Good candidates are generally in good health, have realistic expectations, and are willing to follow post-operative care instructions. It's essential to consult with a board-certified reconstructive surgeon like Dr. McGee, who can assess your individual case and discuss whether you are a suitable candidate, taking into account your medical history and specific goals for surgery.

Will reconstructive surgery restore a completely natural appearance to the treatment area?

Reconstructive surgery aims to achieve a more natural appearance in the treatment area, but it may not always restore it to an entirely natural state, especially in cases involving significant trauma or extensive damage. The extent of restoration depends on factors like the procedure's complexity and individual healing. While reconstructive surgery can greatly improve aesthetics and function, patients should have realistic expectations and understand that some residual differences may remain. The goal is to enhance the appearance and quality of life while minimizing the visible signs of surgery.

Is reconstructive surgery covered by insurance?

Reconstructive surgery may be covered by insurance, depending on the specific procedure and the reason for it. Insurance companies often cover reconstructive surgery when it is deemed medically necessary, such as for the repair of congenital abnormalities, trauma, cancer removal, or functional restoration. However, coverage can vary, and some procedures, like cosmetic surgery, are typically not covered.

To determine if your reconstructive surgery is eligible for insurance coverage, it's essential to consult with your insurance provider. If applicable, our office can assist in documenting the medical necessity of the procedure and working with your insurance company to facilitate coverage. Be sure to understand your policy's terms, limitations, and any out-of-pocket costs you may incur.

Meet Your Most Confident Self

Schedule your Lafayette Plastic Surgery consultation with Catherine McGee, MD, FACS. We are passionate about providing life-changing results through carefully customized treatment. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Catherine McGee, MD, FACS for an exceptionally empathetic, precise, and fulfilling treatment experience in Lafayette.

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Reconstructive Surgery in Lafayette, LA