Reynoldsburg Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. James Herbert Boehmler IV MD is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Reconstructive Surgery.


Q. What is reconstructive surgery?

A. Defects caused by trauma, cancer, infection, or previous surgery may need reconstructive surgery to recreate the normal appearance of the patient. 

Q. What is the difference between Cosmetic and Reconstructive surgery?

A. In general, reconstructive surgery needs to be performed because of deformities acquired or to alleviate a certain symptom.  It is not always elective.  Sometimes the lines can be blurred between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.  Breast reduction is an excellent example.  A woman may want smaller or lifted breasts for cosmetic reasons but at the same time it could be considered reconstructive if the breast reduction could alleviate back, neck and shoulder pain.  Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) can also be both reconstructive when it helps correct a patient’s breathing problems and cosmetic to help improve the appearance of the nose.

Q. What benefits does Reconstructive surgery provide?

A. Reconstructive surgery can provide a multitude of benefits.  It can help the patient feel "whole" again.  A great example is breast reconstruction after treatment for breast cancer.  Instead of having a flat chest and long scar from mastectomy as a daily reminder of the cancer, we can reconstruct the breast and nipple to allow women to feel complete again.  It allows them to wear regular clothing and swimwear without a large pad in their bra.

Q. Who is a good candidate for Reconstructive surgery?

A. Most women who need reconstructive surgery are candidates.  It is important to make sure any chronic medical condition like high blood pressure is adequately treated prior to surgery.

Q. Who is not eligible to have a Reconstructive surgery?

A. There are very few reasons to not have reconstructive surgery, particularly if the surgery is to restore form or function.  For women who smoke or have diabetes, there is an increased risk of infection and trouble with wound healing.

Q. Does Reconstructive surgery have possible risks and complications?

A. The risks of reconstructive surgery are very similar to the risks of any other surgery.  Bleeding, infection and wound healing problems are the more common complications but are still usually infrequent.

Q. How long does it take to recover from Reconstructive surgery?

A. Depending on the amount of surgery performed, recovery can take from a day to several weeks.  We frequently ask patients to avoid strenuous exercise or lifting anything heavy while the healing process is going on.