Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery: Different Surgeries and Treatment Options

Plastic surgery is a broad medical field encompassing surgical interventions aimed at correcting deformities in various parts of the body for both aesthetic and functional purposes. The primary goal of plastic surgery is to improve body functions while also providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. This field is divided into two main categories: plastic and aesthetic surgery and plastic reconstructive surgery. Both categories include numerous operations aimed at enhancing patients' quality of life. In this article, we will touch on topics such as the scope of plastic surgery, the surgeries it performs, and the services offered in public hospitals.

What is Plastic Surgery?

Plastic surgery is a surgical discipline that aims to repair congenital or acquired deformities, tissue loss, and various traumatic injuries. Plastic and reconstructive surgery involves the reconstruction of body structures damaged due to injuries, tissue loss following cancer surgeries, or congenital anomalies. Additionally, aesthetic surgery includes surgeries aimed at improving body shape and achieving a younger appearance.

Another important branch of plastic surgery is plastic vascular surgery. Plastic surgeons specialize in repairing fine blood vessels, particularly in areas such as the face, hands, and arms. Thanks to microsurgical techniques, very small blood vessels and nerves can be successfully repaired.

Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery Operations

Plastic surgery includes a wide range of surgeries that enhance the aesthetics of the face and body. Here are some common aesthetic surgeries performed by plastic surgeons:

Breast Aesthetics Breast aesthetic surgeries aim to change the size, shape, and position of the breasts. Breast augmentation (with implants), breast reduction, and breast lift are among the popular surgeries in this category. Gynecomastia, a condition affecting men, can also be corrected through plastic surgery.
Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Rhinoplasty is a surgery performed to correct the shape of the nose and, if necessary, to address breathing problems. It can be done for aesthetic reasons or to fix congenital or trauma-related nasal deformities. Rhinoplasty is one of the most frequently performed aesthetic surgeries.
Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Facelift surgery aims to eliminate the signs of aging in the face and neck area by tightening the skin and addressing sagging. By lifting the underlying tissues, a more youthful appearance is achieved.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Blepharoplasty is a surgical intervention performed to correct sagging eyelids and remove excess skin tissue. It can be applied to both the upper and lower eyelids. By reducing the signs of aging around the eyes, it provides a more vibrant and youthful appearance.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Tummy tuck surgery involves removing excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that has sagged due to childbirth or weight loss, and tightening the abdominal wall. It also strengthens the abdominal muscles, resulting in a flatter appearance.

6. Liposuction (Fat Removal) Liposuction is a procedure in which stubborn fat deposits are removed from specific areas of the body. It can be applied to areas like the abdomen, hips, legs, and arms to improve the overall shape of the body. Liposuction is aimed at body contouring rather than weight loss.

7. Chin Aesthetics Chin aesthetic surgeries are performed to correct chin deformities and balance the relationship between the upper and lower jaw. Surgeries such as chin augmentation, chin reduction, or chin retraction aim to achieve a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing facial appearance.

8. Facial Fillers and Botox Non-surgical aesthetic interventions like facial fillers and Botox are frequently applied to reduce wrinkles and correct volume loss in the face. Fillers are injected under the skin to create fuller and younger-looking facial contours.

Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Operations

Plastic surgery is not only performed for aesthetic purposes but also plays a significant role in addressing functional and structural issues. Plastic reconstructive surgery encompasses interventions aimed at repairing congenital anomalies, trauma-induced deformities, or tissue loss following cancer surgery. Although these surgeries are not as popular as aesthetic ones, they significantly improve patients' quality of life.

Breast Reconstruction Breast reconstruction is the process of rebuilding the breast tissue lost after mastectomy for breast cancer patients. This surgery can be performed using the patient's own body tissues or implants. Breast reconstruction helps women regain their confidence.
Wound and Burn Repair Plastic surgery interventions are applied to repair tissue loss resulting from burn accidents or severe injuries. These surgeries include eliminating scars left after burns or injuries, repairing functional losses, and reshaping the skin.
Correction of Congenital Anomalies Congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and palate can be corrected through plastic surgery interventions. These types of anomalies can cause both aesthetic and functional issues. Surgical interventions reconstruct the lip and palate structure, improving patients' quality of life.
Hand Surgery Hand injuries, congenital deformities, or nerve compressions are issues addressed by plastic surgery. Plastic and reconstructive surgery improves hand function, repairs nerves, and enhances the aesthetic appearance of the hand.

Mole Removal with Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

In addition to aesthetic concerns, plastic surgeons also treat skin lesions that pose health risks. Mole removal is a common plastic surgery procedure. Some moles on the skin may not be aesthetically pleasing or may carry a risk of cancer. In such cases, plastic surgeons remove the moles surgically, taking aesthetic concerns into account as well. Mole removal is usually completed quickly and performed under local anesthesia.

Are Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeries Performed in Public Hospitals?

Plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery operations can be performed in public hospitals as well as in private clinics. Reconstructive surgeries, especially in areas such as cleft lip, breast reconstruction, and burn treatment, are performed in public hospitals under the coverage of social security. While aesthetic procedures are generally performed in private clinics, some public hospitals may also offer aesthetic surgeries for a fee.

Plastic Surgery Prices

The prices of plastic surgery vary depending on the type of surgery, the patient's needs, the materials used, and the surgeon's experience. Since aesthetic surgeries are usually not covered by insurance, the cost of these operations is planned according to the patient's budget. Reconstructive surgeries, on the other hand, are often covered by health insurance and can be performed with state support.

The prices of common aesthetic surgeries, such as rhinoplasty, vary depending on the technique used and the hospital.
The cost of breast aesthetics can differ based on the price of the implants and the scope of the surgical intervention.
For chin aesthetics, procedures such as chin augmentation, reduction, or retraction play a role in determining the price.

Conclusion

Plastic surgery is a comprehensive medical field not only performed for aesthetic concerns but also aimed at correcting functional disorders. Plastic and aesthetic surgeries enhance a person's appearance and boost self-confidence. Plastic reconstructive surgery improves patients' quality of life by repairing tissue loss caused by congenital anomalies, trauma, or illnesses. Services in this field can also be accessed in public hospitals, and reconstructive surgery operations, in particular, are supported by the state.

With surgeries tailored specifically to each patient, plastic surgery offers long-term, aesthetically and functionally satisfying results. If you are considering a plastic surgery operation, you should consult an experienced plastic surgeon to determine the best solution for you.