Reconstructive surgery is often needed after trauma or certain illnesses. In all reconstructive plastic surgery, two goals are often important reasons for the surgery. Restoring function to as near normal as possible is always a primary goal, especially with hand and lower extremity reconstructive surgery. In addition, restoring a natural, healthy-looking appearance is equally important, since maintaining a strong sense of self esteem often is linked to how we appear to others. Both goals are important parts of reconstructive plastic surgery procedures.
Most plastic surgeons focus on particular types of reconstructive plastic surgery, and have specialized training, skill and experience in those types of surgeries. Whether another physician in the Minneapolis St. Paul area refers you to Dr. McCue or you contact him yourself, you can learn about Dr. McCue and the surgical procedures he performs at the links below:
Breast Reconstruction Procedure – Most commonly, breast reconstruction takes place after a mastectomy or other breast surgery. In all cases, breast reconstruction aims to restore a more normal, balanced appearance. There are several techniques that may be used, depending on the type of surgery previously done. Some techniques can require microvascular surgery, a special interest for Dr. McCue. Careful planning and surgical skill produce the optimal results.
Hand Trauma Surgery – When hands are injured through accident or other trauma, restoration of both appearance and function of the injured hand is always the goal. Our hands are very important to almost every function of our lives. This highly specialized surgery is of special interest to Dr. McCue, who also performs some elective hand surgeries.
Lower Extremity Reconstruction – When trauma injures legs and feet, reconstructive surgery can help restore function and appearance. Often, lower extremity reconstruction is complex, and requires a wide array of surgical skills, including microvascular surgery and tissue transfers. Restoring function is always the primary goal, but restoring as normal an appearance as possible is also a part of reconstructive surgery of lower extremities.
Dr. McCue – Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in Minneapolis St. Paul, MN
In some cases, Dr. McCue is called in by referral for reconstructive plastic surgery when a traumatic injury occurs. In other cases, patients contact him themselves to discuss reconstructive surgery. Dr. McCue’s training and experience in microvascular surgery and tissue transfers play a large role in achieving the goals of restoration of function and appearance for these surgeries. Schedule an consultation with Dr. McCue’s Minneapolis St. Paul office to discuss elective reconstructive plastic surgery at any time.
Reconstructive Surgery FAQs
Reconstructive surgery helps patients recover from trauma, disease, or congenital conditions by restoring both function and appearance. Whether the damage happens due to an accident, cancer treatment, or a chronic medical condition, reconstructive procedures offer new hope and improved quality of life by repairing and restoring tissue and bone.
Dr. Jonathan McCue at McCue Plastic Surgery is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in reconstructive procedures, including breast reconstruction, hand surgery, and lower extremity reconstruction. His commitment to evidence-based medicine ensures patients receive the most advanced and effective surgical care. Patients trust Dr. McCue based on his excellent results and empathetic, understanding approach.
Dr. McCue offers a range of reconstructive procedures, including:
Tumor Removal and Reconstruction: Restoring affected areas after excision of a tumor that distorts tissue or bone
Breast Reconstruction: Restoring breast shape after mastectomy, typically using saline or silicone implants along with tissue flaps.
Hand Reconstruction: Repairing damage following hand trauma after an accident or disease.
Lower Extremity Reconstruction: Rebuilding damaged leg or foot tissue to prevent further losses and preserve limb function.
Skin Grafting and Tissue Transfer: Restoring damaged or lost skin following a burn, chronic disease, or other damage. Uses your own skin from either the immediate area or a donor area on the body.
Microvascular surgery involves reconnecting tiny blood vessels to restore healthy blood flow and function after tissue transplantation, replantation, or any other reconstructive surgery approach.
It’s a highly specialized and precise procedure that requires extensive training. Dr. McCue is a well-regarded specialist in microvascular surgery. Microsurgery can help reconnect blood vessels and restore normal function in delicate areas like the hands, something that often isn’t possible with general surgery techniques.
Reconstructive surgery is essential for restoring lost function and improving appearance after injuries or medical treatments. It can:
- Repair soft tissue and bone damage
- Restore movement in injured limbs
- Improve symmetry and overall appearance
- Enhance wound healing and reduce complications
Each procedure is customized to the patient’s needs to ensure optimal recovery.
When is Breast Reconstruction Needed?
Breast reconstruction is often performed after a mastectomy or a lumpectomy due to breast cancer. It is also beneficial for:
- Congenital breast deformities
- Breast trauma or injury
- Previous surgery that left breasts asymmetrical
Reconstruction restores breast shape and symmetry and can play a big role in recovering confidence for many women.
Dr. McCue specializes in multiple breast reconstruction techniques, including:
- Implant-Based Reconstruction: Using silicone or saline implants
- Tissue-Based Reconstruction: Utilizing the patient’s skin and fat
- Free Flap Procedures: Transferring tissue from another area for a natural look
Each method is customized to fit the patient’s body and preferences.
Hand trauma surgery requires specialized techniques to preserve function. Unlike cosmetic procedures, it focuses on:
- Restoring Movement
- Improving Dexterity
- Reconstructing Tissue and Bone
- Preventing Disability
While the main focus is improving function, Dr. McCue uses the most advanced surgical and suturing techniques to minimize scarring and enhance aesthetics outcomes.
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. General guidelines include:
- Minor Surgeries: 2 to 4 weeks
- Moderate Surgeries: 6 to 8 weeks
- Extensive Reconstructions: At least several months
Every patient has a unique recovery experience. But, what’s true for all patients is that physical therapy and follow-up care are essential for a full recovery.
Most insurance providers cover reconstructive procedures when deemed medically necessary. Check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details. We can help you determine whether your case qualifies as medically necessary.
Top Reconstructive Surgeon in Plymouth, MN
Dr. Jonathan McCue is a leading board-certified plastic surgeon who’s known for his outstanding reconstructive surgery skills. If you’re considering how reconstructive surgery can restore your appearance and quality of life in Minneapolis–St. Paul, call (952) 830-0089 to schedule a consultation.
