Onco-Reconstruction
Restoring Form and Function After Cancer Surgery
Cancer treatment often involves removal of tumors or affected tissues, which can leave visible deformities or functional loss. While curing cancer is the first priority, rebuilding what has been lost—whether it’s the breast, face, jaw, or limb—is equally vital for a patient’s recovery, confidence, and quality of life.
Onco-reconstruction combines cancer surgery with reconstructive plastic surgery to restore both appearance and function immediately or in staged procedures. At our center, we work closely with oncologists, surgical specialists, and radiologists to ensure that cancer treatment and reconstruction go hand-in-hand.
What Is Onco-Reconstruction?
Onco-reconstruction refers to reconstructive procedures performed after cancer removal (oncologic resection). These procedures may be done:
- I mmediately after tumor excision (immediate reconstruction), or
- Later, after completion of chemotherapy or radiotherapy (delayed reconstruction).
The goal is to restore normal form, function, and aesthetics while ensuring complete cancer clearance.
Common Areas Requiring Reconstruction After Cancer Surgery
1. Breast Reconstruction
- Implants (silicone or saline)
- Autologous tissue flaps such as DIEP, TRAM, or LD flaps (using the patient’s own tissue from abdomen, thigh, or back)
- Nipple and areola reconstruction and tattooing for aesthetic refinement
2. Head and Neck Reconstruction
- Free flap reconstructions using tissues from forearm, thigh, or fibula to rebuild the jaw, tongue, or cheek
- Local flaps or skin grafts to cover soft tissue loss
- Functional reconstructions that help restore speech and swallowing
3. Limb Reconstruction
- Free muscle or fasciocutaneous flaps to cover exposed structures
- Bone reconstruction or vascularized bone transfer in collaboration with orthopedic surgeons
- Functional reconstructions to preserve limb mobility and strength
4. Trunk and Soft Tissue Reconstruction
- Following cancer excision in areas like the chest wall, abdomen, or perineum, large wounds can be closed with local rotation flaps or microsurgical tissue transfers to provide durable cover and restore contour.
Our Approach: Multidisciplinary Cancer Reconstruction
We follow a multidisciplinary treatment model, where the plastic surgeon is involved right from the planning stage of cancer treatment. This ensures that:
- The oncologic surgeon achieves complete cancer removal, and
- The reconstructive surgeon restores structure and function immediately after.
Our Reconstruction Principles
1. Safety First: Cancer clearance is never compromised for cosmetic results
2. Individualised Planning: Each reconstruction is tailored to the patient’s diagnosis, stage, and personal needs.
3. Use of Microsurgery: We use advanced microsurgical techniques to transfer tissues with their blood supply, allowing complex three-dimensional reconstructions.
Early Rehabilitation: Patients receive physiotherapy, speech therapy, and psychological counselling early in recovery to regain confidence and normalcy
Why Reconstruction Is Important After Cancer Surgery
Many patients believe that once cancer is removed, treatment is complete. However, the physical and emotional scars can last long after recovery. Reconstructive surgery helps by:
- Restoring body image and self-esteem
- Improving function (speech, eating, mobility)
- Allowing normal social and professional reintegration
- Reducing long-term complications like wound breakdown or contractures
Types of Reconstructive Techniques Used
Depending on the defect, location, and patient factors, the following techniques may be employed:
- Skin Grafting: For small surface defects
- Local Flaps: Using nearby tissues for coverage
- Regional Flaps: Transferring tissues from adjacent areas (pectoralis major, deltopectoral, etc.)
- Free Flaps: Microsurgical transfer of tissue from distant sites (e.g., fibula, ALT, or DIEP flaps)
- Implant-based Reconstruction: Especially for post-mastectomy patients
- Composite Reconstructions: Combining bone, muscle, and skin for complex defects
These methods allow the reconstruction to be durable, natural-looking, and functional.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure and cancer treatment plan. After reconstruction:
- Patients are encouraged to mobilize early and engage in physiotherapy.
- Speech and swallowing therapy are provided for head and neck reconstructions.
- Emotional and psychological support are offered to help patients adapt to their new body image.
With proper follow-up and care, most patients regain normal activity levels and confidence within weeks to months.
Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Onco-Reconstruction
Plastic surgeons specialize in restoring form and function using fine tissue-handling and microsurgical skills.
At our center, we combine artistry with precision to help cancer survivors look and feel their best.
Patients benefit from:
- One-stage cancer removal and reconstruction where feasible
- Minimally invasive microsurgical options
- Customized planning for each individual
- Dedicated follow-up and rehabilitation
Our focus is on holistic recovery — ensuring that life after cancer is not just about survival, but about living confidently and fully.
FAQs on Onco-Reconstruction
1. Is reconstruction safe after cancer surgery?
Yes. Reconstruction is planned only after ensuring complete cancer removal. It does not increase the risk of recurrence.
2. When can reconstruction be done — immediately or later?
Both options are possible. Immediate reconstruction offers better aesthetic results and fewer surgeries, while delayed reconstruction may be preferred if further treatments like radiotherapy are planned.
3. Will reconstruction affect my cancer follow-up or detection of recurrence?
No. Modern techniques allow easy monitoring, and follow-up scans are not affected by reconstructive tissue or implants.
4. Can breast reconstruction be done with my own tissue?
Yes. Many women choose autologous reconstruction using tissue from the abdomen or thigh for a natural feel and long-lasting results.
5. Will the reconstructed area look and feel natural?
With modern microsurgery and careful planning, reconstructed areas often look remarkably natural and allow near-normal function
6. How long is the recovery period?
Depending on the surgery’s complexity, most patients recover in 2–4 weeks for smaller reconstructions and 6–8 weeks for large free flap procedures.
7. Can older patients undergo reconstruction?
Yes. As long as overall health is stable, age is not a strict barrier. Safety and comfort are our top priorities