Nerve & Soft Tissue Reconstruction: Why You Have Nothing to Fear

The mere idea of reconstructive surgery can sound intimidating, but when you dig deeper, you find that reconstructive surgery has many benefits that can significantly improve your quality of life. 

The benefit of seeking treatment from a plastic surgeon has to do with the extensive training they receive in both reconstructive and cosmetic cases. Not only can Dr Damon Thomas restore function to digits and areas of the face, but he can do so in a manner that is cosmetically sound. If you have been told that reconstructive surgery is the best option for your health, you may feel apprehensive, but there is also hope in knowing that your results can be functional and attractive.

WHEN IS NERVE OR SOFT TISSUE RECONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATE?

It is likely that if a condition arises in an area of the body that impacts natural function, reconstructive surgery may be necessary. One of the most important aspects of reconstructive surgery is ensuring that the area in question will have mobility that benefits the recipient as they carry out their everyday life. Limbs lacking functionality can pose a greater danger to the patient even if the disability is treated, which is why it is essential to discuss the best ways to perform surgery with a doctor.

More commonly, nerve and soft tissue reconstruction occur on the legs, hands or arms and face either due to congenital defect, a developing condition or injury. Regardless of the diagnosis, these conditions can cause serious discomfort in many ways. Dr Thomas treats many patients – adults and children – who have:

• Syndactyly (webbed digits)
• Polydactyly (extra digits)
• Dupuytren’s contracture (bent digits due to fibrous tissue)
• Underdeveloped thumbs
• Amputations and lacerations
• Facial deformities and trauma

The techniques used to treat each of these conditions are different for every patient. Depending on the extent of the deformity and its location, the procedure will vary, but a consultation will be able to inform you of the best methods to use.

HOW IS SOFT TISSUE RECONSTRUCTION PERFORMED?

Although there are differences in each procedure, soft tissue reconstruction is usually performed using a patient’s own tissue. Skin can be grafted from another part of a patient’s body and transplanted onto the treatment area. Composite flaps of vascularised tissue of skin, muscle and/or bone can be transferred for more complex defects. By using tissues from the same person, the body has a better chance of accepting the graft.

Autologous grafts involve many considerations, including the donor site as well as the size and depth of the treatment area. Typically, it is best for doctors to choose a donor site whose skin mimics the location in the limb needing the graft. Similar characteristics will help the skin look as natural as possible once it heals.

Soft tissue reconstruction may also require bone graft with either a patient’s own bone or a synthetic construct.

HOW IS NERVE RECONSTRUCTION PERFORMED?

Along with the restoration of soft tissue, nerve reconstruction is equally vital as it ensures the functionality of the limb and other areas in question. The nerves can be reconstructed in much the same way as a soft tissue graft. Nerve autografts are taken from the patient’s own body and used to recreate sensation in the treatment area. Nerve grafting can also include conduits, which are able to bridge the gap between two separate nerves and effectively repair functionality.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN RECONSTRUCTING NERVES AND SOFT TISSUES

Because these surgeries are more invasive than some of the other procedures that Dr Thomas performs, the use of general anaesthesia will be necessary for more extensive operations. Otherwise, local and IV sedation will be used for day procedures. This means that you will feel no pain while surgery is taking place, although you may experience discomfort once the anaesthesia wears off. 

Most surgeries for soft tissue and nerve reconstruction are performed on an outpatient basis, with the majority of procedures taking a couple of hours to complete. Dressings and sutures are placed onto the wounds once surgery is finished, and they are left on the treatment area for up to three weeks to promote healing.

You will receive informative care instructions from Dr Thomas before your procedure begins, and it is important that you follow these guidelines to ensure a comfortable and full recovery. Like the surgery itself, recovery also varies on a patient-by-patient basis, depending on the procedure performed. Some patients may recover in a matter of weeks while others may require physical therapy in order to fully restore function to the limbs. Dr Thomas works with both physiotherapists and occupational therapists to provide the best overall patient care, and a consultation with any of these professionals will give you an accurate assessment of how your surgery will be performed.

Though reconstructive surgeries can be complex, each procedure aims to help you regain mobility and live a full life. A plastic surgery procedure for damaged nerves and tissues can provide you with aesthetics and function. For more information about nerve and soft tissue reconstruction on the hands, feet, face or other regions, contact Dr Damon Thomas on 03 9034 7738 and schedule a consultation.

MAKING AN INFORMED DECISION

Our website is intended to provide general information about plastic surgery and should not be used as a substitute for personalised medical advice. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if reconstructive surgery is right for you. The following considerations should be part of your decision-making process.

Risks

All surgical procedures carry risk. The potential risks and complications associated with plastic surgery depend on the type of surgery and can include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, and the need for additional surgery. It is important to understand the risks involved and weigh up the benefits and drawbacks before undergoing a surgical procedure.

Recovery

Recovery time after plastic surgery may vary depending on the individual, the type of procedure and the extent of the operation. In general, patients should be prepared to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after surgery. Patients may also need to take time off work and other activities (including exercise) and must follow post-operative instructions to promote proper healing and minimise the risk of complications.

Results

Individual results may vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s natural features, the amount of correction required, and the surgical technique employed. It is critical to have realistic expectations about the outcome of plastic surgery and understand that each patient’s outcome will be unique. 

If you have any questions or concerns about reconstructive plastic surgery, please do not hesitate to contact us.