Reconstructive surgery
Face and neck reconstruction after tumour removal
Restoring the soft tissues and bones of the face and neck after tumour removal.
Overview
Also known as: facial reconstruction, reconstructive surgery, jaw reconstruction
Removing a tumour from the face or neck sometimes leaves a defect of the skin, lining of the mouth, muscle or bone. Reconstruction aims to restore, as far as possible, function — eating, speech, breathing, closing the eyes and mouth — as well as the form of the face.
Reconstruction may be immediate, during the same operation in which the tumour is removed, or delayed, at a later stage. The choice depends on the type and location of the tumour, the need for further treatment and the patient’s general health.
For malignant disease, treatment is planned by a multidisciplinary team, and treating the disease itself comes first. Reconstruction is part of the overall plan and is discussed with the patient as such.
When to seek a consultation
- Planned tumour removal that is expected to leave a soft-tissue or bone defect.
- A defect of the face, mouth or neck after previous tumour surgery.
- Impaired functions such as eating, speech or closing the mouth after treatment.
- Changes in facial contour or symmetry after cancer treatment.
What treatment may involve
- Examination, imaging and the histology result, on which treatment planning is based.
- Multidisciplinary discussion for malignant disease, including the need for further treatment.
- Depending on the defect, reconstruction may use local tissue, grafts or flaps — tissue moved from another part of the body.
- Reconstruction may involve the soft tissues, the bone or both, and is sometimes carried out in stages.
- Follow-up and, where needed, rehabilitation of speech, eating or swallowing.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery depends on the extent of surgery, the type of reconstruction and any further treatment. After more extensive procedures the hospital stay and recovery period are longer.
Regular follow-up visits are important both for monitoring healing and for cancer surveillance. Patients and their families receive guidance on care, eating and rehabilitation.
Risks and alternatives
Besides general surgical risks, there may be healing problems, partial or complete loss of transferred tissue, the need for further surgery, changes in sensation or function, and effects at the site from which tissue was taken.
The specific options, including a simpler form of repair or delaying reconstruction, are discussed openly with the patient. Not every defect requires complex reconstruction.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Can reconstruction be done during the tumour operation?
In many cases immediate reconstruction is possible, but sometimes it is better to delay it. The decision depends on the disease and the overall treatment plan.
What is a flap in facial reconstruction?
A flap is a section of tissue — such as skin, muscle or bone — moved from a nearby area or another part of the body to cover a defect. The choice depends on the size and type of the defect.
Will my face look the same as before surgery?
The aim is the fullest possible restoration of function and form, but the outcome depends on the extent of the defect and the treatment. Realistic expectations are discussed individually.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.