Overview
Burns and traumatic injuries can affect the skin and the tissues beneath it, as well as movement and function. Reconstructive plastic surgery aims to help wounds heal well and to restore function and appearance as far as possible.
Care may be needed soon after an injury, or months to years later when scars tighten or limit movement.
This may be relevant if…
- Wounds after a burn or injury that need specialist assessment
- Tight scars (contractures) that restrict movement of a joint, the neck or the hand
- Thick, raised or uncomfortable scars
At your consultation
- Examining the wound or scar, the movement it affects and your general health
- Planning treatment in stages where needed
How it is done
Depending on the injury, care may include wound management, skin grafts, tissue flaps, or releasing tight scar tissue.
Physiotherapy, pressure garments and scar care often form part of recovery.
Risks, recovery & limits
- Scars cannot be removed completely; treatment aims to improve how they look, feel and move.
- Reconstruction can involve more than one procedure over time.
- Risks include infection, graft or flap problems and further scarring.
Other options
- Non-surgical scar therapy such as pressure, silicone and physiotherapy
This page is general information, not medical advice. Whether this treatment suits you — and your own risks, recovery and costs — can only be judged at an in-person consultation with Dr. Swathi Gagannatham. Read the medical disclaimer.