Overview
The field of Plastic Surgery ranges from breast reconstruction and wound healing to the treatment of scars and wrinkles. Plastic Surgery researchers study the effects of aging and disease on human tissue, new kinds of bandages to improve the treatment of battlefield and other injuries, certain cells in our bodies that can help wounds heal without scars, and a wide range of other topics.
Reconstructive Surgery, which involves the restoration of form and function in any area of the body. This might include repairing a hole left when a bone tumor is removed, reconstructing a breast following a mastectomy, reforming connections of a reattached limb, or even separating conjoined twins.
- Microsurgery, in which surgeons reattach tiny pieces of tissue taken from a donor or from another part of a patient's body, as with a skin graft. Microsurgeons specialize in the reconnection of nerves, muscles, and blood vessels.
- Hand surgery, including treatment of acute and chronic hand and upper limb problems, such as carpal tunnel surgery and brachial plexus repair.
- Cosmetic (or Aesthetic) surgery, such as breast reduction or augmentation, liposuction, facelifts, and skin treatments.
- Craniofacial surgery, a major component of Pediatric Plastic Surgery, for children born with abnormalities of the face or head, from craniosynostosis (improper development of the skull bones) to cleft palate to jaw reconstruction.
- Oral and Maxiollofacial Surgery, which relates to the mouth and jaw. It can help patients who suffer from jaw pain or injuries, and even sleep disorders.
