Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in Columbus
Breast Reconstruction
For women who have undergone mastectomy (removal of the breast due to cancer or a pre-cancerous condition) or women who have a breast deformity, breast reconstruction offers the means to restore their womanly shape and, in turn, to restore their self-confidence.
"My goals were for my breasts to look natural but the results were better than I expected. The doctor made me feel like I was talking to a friend and everybody in the office too." – Breast Reconstruction Patient Testimonial
Breast reconstruction is a very delicate procedure in which both timing and technique are important. Surgery may be performed immediately following a mastectomy, or it may be completed best at a later time. Reconstruction may be done with a tissue expander and implant, or through utilizing your body's own tissues (flap reconstruction). Which combination of options is best for you is something you should determine in conjunction with your breast surgeon, oncologist, and with Dr. Lichten.
"Dr. Lichten did a remarkable job in finishing my breast cancer reconstruction. He built nipples out of nothing and reshaped them to look completely natural. He fixed the damage done by other surgeons. I only regret not finding him first! He made the memory of my cancer disappear being the gifted surgeon he is." – Breast Reconstruction Patient Testimonial
After the initial reconstruction, patients may undergo further operations to exchange the tissue expander for a permanent implant, revise the reconstructed breast, reconstruct the nipple and areola, or perform an operation on the opposite breast to achieve better symmetry. Dr. Lichten and everyone at Central Ohio Plastic Surgery will help you through every step of the reconstructive process.
Click here to read an article on breast reconstruction options after mastectomy by Dr. Lichten.
Scar Revision
Many factors determine the severity of scarring. Some of the most significant include the size of the wound, its depth, blood supply to the area, the skin tone, and the way the body heals. Scars may take 18 months to 2 years to fully mature and fade. If after this time you are still dissatisfied with the appearance of a scar, you may consider surgical revision. No surgeon can completely remove a scar, but often the appearance of a scar can be improved. Scar revision is a surgical procedure specifically used to improve the appearance of scars that have not responded to medical treatments such as cortisone drugs, steroids, or skin gels. Dr. Lichten uses several surgical techniques based on what he feels is best for you. Call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lichten to discuss which surgical option may be right for you.
Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction
It is critically important to your overall health to know your skin and look out for changes to any spots on your body. If you, your dermatologist, or your primary care doctor notice a spot on your face that seems to be growing or changing, call our office to schedule a consultation to have it checked out. In addition, if you have a larger spot on your body or a family history of skin cancer, Dr. Lichten will be happy to evaluate it to determine if it is a cause for concern.
After the lesion has been removed, reconstructive surgery often necessary to close or cover the treated area and to restore the natural appearance of the skin involved in the cancer excision. Dr. Lichten may perform immediate reconstruction of your skin lesion excision, or you may be referred to or sent from another surgeon who performs the cancer resection.
"Dr. Lichten did an excellent job. I have really healed well and you can hardly tell I had a cyst removed from such a prominent place on my face. Thank you so much! I would definitely see him again and recommend him." – Skin Lesion Patient Testimonial
For lesions on the face, Dr. Lichten will use special techniques from his plastic surgery training to minimize or hide the scars left from the removal of the lesion. For larger lesions on the body, Dr. Lichten may create a skin flap or use a skin graft to rebuild the surface of the skin and provide the most aesthetically pleasing result for your specific situation.
If you would like to learn if you are a candidate for a reconstructive procedure, request a consultation online with Dr. Lichten. You can also call 740-653-5064 (Lancaster) or 614-862-8008 (Groveport) to schedule your visit to Central Ohio Plastic Surgery, Inc.
