The SoCal Cosmetic Network

New "Must Read" Reconstructive Surgery Information on Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery

(PRLEAP.COM) SAN DIEGO, Calif., August 14, 2009 – When thinking about plastic surgery, what comes to mind are liposuction, tummy tucks, facelifts, injectables and other cosmetic procedures. But plastic surgery is more than just an aesthetic pursuit. Reconstructive plastic surgery procedures are also an important part of the mix.

Approximately 4.9 million reconstructive procedures were performed in 2008, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. That is why Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery is expanding its coverage of these potentially life-saving reconstructive procedures, with new articles on three of the most common types: hand surgery, cleft repair surgery and skin cancer surgery.

Reconstructive surgery refers to procedures performed on abnormal structures of the body that result from birth defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors or disease. These surgeries can improve function of the abnormal structure as well as physical appearance.

In some cases, reconstructive plastic surgeries can be life-saving. For example, complete surgical removal of a skin tumor can reduce the risk of the cancer spreading to other organs and can also fine-tune the appearance of the remaining scar.

Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery worked with top reconstructive surgeons and medical organizations to develop the new content. The articles detail the potential benefits of hand, skin cancer and cleft surgery, including risks and costs, in easy-to-understand language.

The articles also contain advice on what to ask a prospective surgeon, since choosing the right surgeon for reconstructive procedures can make a big difference in both satisfaction and survival.

“This cleft surgery article provides a clear, concise overview of the health issues surrounding cleft lips and cleft palates, as well as the many benefits of surgery,” says Scott Vooss, director of marketing and communications at Operation Smile, based in Norfolk, Va. “Disseminating this type of practical information truly helps advance our mission of changing lives one smile at a time.”

Darrick E. Antell, MD, an educational spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation and a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City, served as the medical reviewer for the skin cancer article.

“The article is an excellent summary and will help the public better understand how to prevent and cure a variety of skin cancers,” he says. “It will also help people understand the pivotal role of plastic surgeons in treatment and diagnosis. This is a must-read for everyone.”

The new articles augment existing content on breast reconstruction following breast cancer surgery, wartime reconstructive plastic surgery and a guide to academic reconstructive surgery centers.

Source: Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery

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