Flap Surgery

What is Flap Surgery?

Flap surgery is a reconstructive surgical procedure used to repair or replace damaged or missing tissues by transferring healthy tissue from one part of the body to another. This technique is commonly employed in plastic and reconstructive surgery to restore form and function following trauma, injury, or surgery.

Types of Flap Surgery

There are several types of flap surgery, including:

• Local flaps: Tissue is transferred from an adjacent area to cover a defect.
• Regional flaps: Tissue is moved from a nearby region with a similar blood supply.
• Free flaps: Tissue is completely detached from its original blood supply and reconnected to blood vessels at the recipient site.

Indications for Flap Surgery

Flap surgery may be indicated for various conditions, including:

• Skin cancer excision
• Traumatic injuries
• Burn reconstruction
• Pressure ulcers
• Scar revision
• Microsurgical reconstruction

Procedure

The flap surgery procedure typically involves the following steps:

• Preparation: The recipient site is prepared, and the damaged or missing tissue is carefully evaluated.
• Flap design: The surgeon designs the flap to match the size and shape of the defect.
• Flap elevation: The flap is dissected and mobilized while preserving its blood supply.
• Flap transposition: The flap is transferred to the recipient site and secured in place.
• Closure: The donor site is closed, and the flap is sutured into position.

Recovery and Results

Recovery from flap surgery varies depending on the extent and complexity of the procedure. Patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the treated area, which typically resolves within a few weeks. Full recovery and final results may take several months, during which time the flap will integrate and vascularize, providing long-lasting tissue repair and reconstruction.

Why Choose VMG Hospital for Flap Surgery?

At VMG Hospital, our team of board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons specializes in flap surgery techniques to address a wide range of cosmetic and functional concerns. We combine expertise with compassion to provide personalized care and achieve optimal outcomes for our patients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about flap surgery options.