Local Flap
Following skin cancer removal or treatment for injuries, reconstructing the affected area is often an important part of the healing process. Local flap surgery at OS Head and Neck offers a natural, aesthetically pleasing and innovative solution, using nearby healthy tissue to reconstruct the defect, minimising the need for skin grafts and promoting optimal healing.
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Why have local flap surgery?
Local flap surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses nearby healthy tissue to reconstruct the area where cancerous tissue was removed. It offers several advantages over traditional skin grafting techniques. Our specialists at OS Head and Neck are highly trained and experienced in advanced facial skin surgery, so you are in the best hands.
The benefits of local flap surgery for reconstruction include:
Natural appearance – local flaps use your own tissue, resulting in a reconstruction that blends seamlessly with the surrounding skin for a more natural look.
Reduced scarring – by eliminating the need for skin from a distant donor site, local flap surgery minimises overall scarring, leading to a more aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Improved function – depending on the location of the wound, local flaps can help restore functionality and movement in the affected area.
Reduced risk of rejection – as we use your own tissue, there’s no risk of rejection, which is a potential complication with skin grafts.
What does local flap surgery involve?
Local flap surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anaesthetic or light sedation. If your case is particularly complex, we may need to use general anaesthetic, but this is communicated with you.
During your consultation, we carefully assess your wound and discuss the most suitable local flap technique for your specific needs. We meticulously plan the flap design based on the size and location of the defect, ensuring the flap receives adequate blood supply.
A section of healthy tissue adjacent to the defect is carefully raised and rotated to cover the area. It is precisely tailored for a natural fit. The edges of the flap and surrounding tissue are closed with surgical stitches for optimal healing.
Frequently asked questions
The suitability for local flap surgery depends on several factors, including the size and location of the defect, the availability of healthy tissue nearby, and your overall health. Our dermatologic surgeon will assess your individual case during a consultation to determine if this is the best reconstruction option for you.
While local flap surgery minimises scarring compared to other techniques, some degree of scarring is inevitable. However, by using your own tissue, the resulting scar is often less noticeable and blends in better with surrounding skin. Your surgeon will discuss scar minimisation techniques with you.
The recovery process after local flap surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. However, it’s typically an outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort. You’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing.
As with any surgery, there’s a slight risk of infection or bleeding. It’s important to communicate any concerns you have with your doctor before the procedure.
Local flap surgery offers long-lasting results, promoting optimal healing, improved function, and a more natural appearance of the reconstructed area.
