Burn Reconstruction
in El Paso, TX
Burn Reconstruction
After a burn injury, significant amounts of scar tissue may form that not only significantly changes the appearance, but can deeply affect function. Often, these can be corrected or improved with reconstructive surgery which is performed after any initial, or acute, surgery is performed. After the initial burn wounds have healed, reconstructive surgery can take place to improve both the function and the cosmetic appearance of burn scars.
There are various means of altering the scar tissue, both non-surgical and surgical, and it often takes several months or even years to complete a full course of reconstructive treatment.
Am I a Good Candidate for Reconstructive Burn Surgery?
You may be an excellent candidate for reconstructive burn surgery if:
- You realize that surgery may be able to help improve basic functions or make scars less noticeable, but it will not remove the scarring completely.
- If you have contractures from scarring that limits the normal motion of your neck, shoulder, hands, or legs.
- If you have facial scarring that has caused problems with the eyelids, lips, nose, or hair loss.
- Scars that are abnormally thick, wide, or discolored might also be improved by a combination of operative and non-operative methods.
The Procedural
Options
Non-surgical therapies
Non-surgical therapies include: scar massage, application of pressure garments, or other topical therapies in addition to therapy that will assist with rehabilitation of hand burns and scars.
Operative Therapy
Operative therapy consists mainly of scar release procedures. Once a tight scar is released, the opening in the skin must be repaired. Skin grafts, skin rearrangement and more complex flap surgery could be required, depending on the location of the scar and the desired outcome. Most minor procedures are performed as outpatient surgery, but the larger grafts and flaps often require an inpatient stay.
Recovery
Since a variety of procedures can be performed the recovery time will vary. Generally, skin grafts require a dressing to support the graft for at least 3-5 days without any movement followed by a more traditional dressing. Dr. Gonzalez will work with your physical therapist to monitor any subsequent treatments and to develop the best treatment plan for your situation.
To view animated plastic surgery procedures, click here.
If you’re interested in burn reconstruction and would like to see if you may be a candidate, call Dr. G. Plastic Surgery today at (915) 600-2639 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gonzalez.
Contact El Paso, TX Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez
For more information on Plastic Surgery (cirugía plástica) and Non-Surgical Medical Spa procedures and treatments, please contact the offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeon (cirujano plástico), Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez (Dr. G) by clicking here or calling 915-600-2639.
Serving patients in El Paso Texas, Las Cruces New Mexico, Ciudad Juárez Mexico and surrounding areas.
Patient Reviews
“Gave me back my confidence after correcting another surgeon’s work. Very professional, blessed, and gifted, a master at what he was clearly born to do. Went back for another surgery and couldn’t be happier.”
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