Facial Reconstruction

What is Facial Reconstruction Surgery?

Your face is a vital component of your personality and body image. You can count on the Aesthetic Center at Woodholme for facial reconstruction surgery because our highly skilled surgeons Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, and Dr. Quan are committed to providing world-class care to patients who desire facial reconstruction surgery. Our facial plastic surgeons address damage caused by burns, trauma, and other medical conditions, focusing on both functional capabilities and aesthetic appearance. Depending upon your needs, Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, and Dr. Quan provide a wide range of treatment options for patients with reconstructive issues that can range from less severe cosmetic or aesthetic issues to more severe facial deformities, any one of which might require simultaneous functional and aesthetic repair. Together, Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, and Dr. Quan have the training and skills necessary to repair and reconstruct those facial features that are absent or deformed.

Facial reconstructive procedures performed include:

•         Scar revisions
•         Earlobe repair
•         Facial fractures and lacerations
•         Skin cancer treatment
•         Soft tissue reconstruction
•         Mohs reconstruction

Benefits of Facial Reconstructive Surgery

Facial reconstructive surgery can repair the skin, cartilage, bone, muscle, and other facial structures affected by trauma, congenital conditions, cancer treatment, or previous plastic surgery. Unlike forensic facial approximation, this surgical method is tailored to a living person and their unique anatomy, medical history, and goals. Treatment may restore symmetry, preserve facial expression, and improve function while enhancing appearance and self-confidence.

Depending on the extent of reconstruction, surgeons may use skin grafts or a free flap, which involves moving transplanted tissue and reconnecting its tiny blood vessels to establish circulation. Some procedures address the face and neck, while more extensive surgeries may require general anesthesia. A combination of techniques may be recommended to achieve the most natural and functional outcome.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Facial Reconstruction?

Candidates may include individuals with facial injuries, fractures, scars, birth differences, or abnormalities caused by infection, disease, accidents, or cancer treatment. Eligibility does not depend on age alone; overall health, tissue quality, and reconstructive needs are also considered. Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, and Dr. Quan provide patients with personalized treatment plans designed to restore appearance, comfort, and confidence.

All of these issues can have a significant effect on your self-esteem. Our goal is to help you overcome any of these problems so that you can feel more confident. Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, and Dr. Quan have significant experience and knowledge in all of these procedures and would love the chance to work with you.

Facial Reconstruction Techniques

Facial reconstruction techniques can be broadly classified into two categories: traditional and modern. Each approach offers unique advantages and is chosen based on the specific needs and circumstances of the patient.

How is Facial Reconstruction Performed?

Below you will find a brief overview of the facial reconstructive procedures performed at the offices of Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler.

Split Earlobe Repair

Cost: $600 for single repair, $900 for bilateral repair; includes re-piercing of ears

Earlobe repair is a procedure done under local anesthesia that takes approximately 30-45 minutes with the goal of restoring the natural shape of the earlobes. Common problems include tears through the bottom of the earlobes from old piercings. After about four to six weeks, patients may get their ears pierced again.

Scar Revision

Scar revision has the goal of reducing the appearance of a wide, raised or highly visible scar. This procedure can take advantage of the natural creases in one’s face to make the scar less noticeable. The length of the scar revision procedure varies depending on the patient’s scars.

Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin cancer removal and reconstruction are commonly performed at the Aesthetic Center at Woodholme. A skin sample (biopsy) may be taken using microscopic examination and if cancer is detected our doctors may excise it themselves, or may refer the patient for Mohs surgery. This procedure varies depending on the size, location, and type of skin cancer. Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler may simply excise and repair the cancer themselves. However, if the skin cancer is found in a specialized area, such as the nose or corner of the eye, then Mohs excision may be required. This is an extremely effective option which also reduces the chances of reoccurrence. The area from which the cancer was extracted will then be reconstructed by Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler with minimal visible scarring.

Facial Lacerations and Fractures

Facial lacerations and fractures are repaired at the Aesthetic Center at Woodholme. This helps recreate the original facial appearance and restore function. The technique used depends on the severity and location of the laceration or fracture.

Microtia Repair

Microtia repair is an area of expertise of Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, and Dr. Quan, and is used for children who have severe abnormalities of the ear or a complete absence of ears. This reconstructive surgery can improve both the appearance of the ears and the hearing ability. Ear reconstruction is an extremely delicate procedure that yields life-changing results for children suffering from the birth deformity microtia.

Recovery After Facial Reconstruction

Recovery after your facial reconstruction procedure will depend on the exact procedure or repair that was performed. Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler will go over patient recovery in detail during the time of consultation.

Your Consultation in Baltimore, MD

Patients of Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler have experienced an improved quality of life after their facial reconstruction surgery. Take a look at the astounding outcomes Baltimore and Washington, D.C. patients have experienced to help you visualize the stunning results you or your child can achieve after facial reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler have performed many successful facial reconstructions on their patients from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Annapolis and the surrounding areas of Maryland and would love a chance to discuss procedural options with you! Contact us at our Baltimore office to schedule a consultation for your facial reconstruction and discuss all of your options.