Plastic surgery is a vast speciality, which derives its name from the Greek term PLASTIKOS, meaning to 'mould'. Thus, essentially in contrast to other surgical specialities, Plastic surgery deals with redistribution or transfer of tissues from one part of the body to the other and also from one person to another with the advent of Tissue Allotransplantation. The sub-specialities are Aesthetic surgery, Hand surgery, Trauma & Cancer reconstruction, Cleft & Craniofacial surgery, Burn Care.

The growth of Plastic Surgery has largely been spurred by technological advancement, skill improvement and overall economic development in society. This is evident by the large number of patients opting for Aesthetic surgery now. However, this by no means undermines the importance of Reconstructive Surgery in Trauma and Cancer patients, which not only restores anatomy, but also initiates psychosocial and occupational rehabilitation.

Hence, in a nutshell the keywords are Reconstruct, Restore, Rejuvenate & Rehabilitate.

• Aesthetic Surgery

Aesthetic surgery deals with improvement of appearance, which in turn translates into improved self esteem and confidence, and perhaps, performance in professional life. However, it is important for patients seeking aesthetic surgery to have realistic expectations and understand the limitations of the procedures.

Most of the Aesthetic procedures are day care surgery with aftercare on an OPD basis.

• AESTHETIC FACIAL SURGERY : Rhinoplasty

Deals with reshaping of the nose, which can be an open or closed procedure. Open procedure is imperative for tip correction and in patients with Cleft lip nose deformity. The closed approach suffices where there is no or minimal tip correction required. Rhinoplasty is a custom-made surgery, demanding a unique plan for each patient, with need for extensive preoperative counseling.

• Face, neck & brow lift

Essentially constitutes tightening of the skin and supporting underlying soft tissues which have sagged owing to aging and gravity, with imperceptible scarring. Overnight hospital stay is required. Smokers and patients on anticoagulants (like Aspirin, Clopidrogel, warfarin) have to stop consuming the same for at least a week prior to surgery. Smoking is prohibited for 3 weeks postoperatively to facilitate healing. The commonest complications are bleeding and nerve injuries.

• Facial contouring

Fillers, botulinum toxin, Liposuction & Fat injection and implants help in facial contouring, as per the requirements and expectations of the patient. They may be office or day care procedures. While fillers and Botulinum toxin injections are temporary (lasting 6-9 months), others are permanent.