Plastic Surgery Sub-Specialties
Plastic and
reconstructive surgery is a broad field, and may be subdivided further. Plastic
surgery sub-specialty training includes mastery of the following:
- Craniofacial
surgery
This sub-specialty mostly revolves around the
management of pediatric congenital anomalies, such as cleft lip and palate,
craniosynostosis, and other disturbances in facial growth and development.
Since these children have multiple issues, the best approach to providing care
to them is an interdisciplinary approach which also consists of neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, speech
therapists, occupational therapists and geneticists.
- Hand
surgery
Plastic and reconstructive surgeons receive training
in hand surgery, with some trainees deciding even to do an additional full-year
hand fellowship afterwards. In particular, plastic and reconstructive surgeons
receive training in microvascular surgery, which is needed to replant an
amputated digit or hand. Many types of hand operations (such as reconstruction
of injuries, replantations, rheumatoid surgery and surgery of congenital
defects) are performed by plastic surgeons.
- Aesthetic
or Cosmetic Surgery
While both aesthetic surgery and reconstructive
plastic surgery deal with improving a patient's body, the overarching
philosophies guiding the training, research, and goals for patient outcomes are
different. The procedures, techniques, and principles of aesthetic surgery are
completely focused on enhancing a patient's appearance. Aesthetic surgery can
be performed on all areas of the head, neck, and body. As the treated areas
function properly, aesthetic surgery is elective. Plastic and reconstructive
surgeons may decide to master advanced cosmetic surgery training after
completion of their formal training programs.
- Pediatric Plastic Surgery.
Children are often confronted with medical issues
unique from the experiences of an adult patient. Many birth defects or
syndromes present at birth are best managed in childhood, and pediatric plastic
surgeons specialize in treating these conditions seen in children. Many of them
have additional training in pediatric care. Disorders commonly treated by
pediatric plastic surgeons include craniofacial anomalies, cleft lip and
palate, and congenital hand deformities.
- Burn
Surgery
Plastic surgeons who prefer to treat patients with
deformities caused by burn injury may work in specific burn care centers.
Amasra - Turkey