Head and neck reconstruction restores form and function after cancer surgery, trauma, infection or complex facial defects. It may involve skin, soft tissue, bone, nerve or lining reconstruction depending on the defect.
Reconstruction in this region must consider appearance, speech, swallowing, breathing, facial movement, oral function and future cancer treatment where relevant.
Planning is usually multidisciplinary, involving head and neck surgeons, oncologists, speech therapists, dietitians, dentists, rehabilitation teams and plastic surgeons as needed.
This page provides general information and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. Suitability, risks, recovery and outcomes vary between individuals.
When reconstruction may be needed
Head and neck reconstruction may be considered after removal of tumours, traumatic tissue loss, complex infection, facial wounds, burns or previous surgery complications.
- skin and soft-tissue defects of the face or scalp
- oral cavity, tongue, jaw or throat defects after cancer surgery
- facial trauma with tissue loss
- exposed bone, tendon, vessels or hardware
- scar contracture or contour deformity after previous treatment
Functional and aesthetic planning
The plan depends on the location and tissues involved. For example, reconstruction of the mouth must consider speech and swallowing, while scalp or facial reconstruction must consider durable coverage and visible contour.
When cancer treatment is involved, reconstruction should support safe tumour clearance, timely recovery and coordination with radiotherapy or other treatments.
Reconstructive options
Options may include local flaps, skin grafts, regional flaps or microsurgical free flaps. Some defects require tissue with skin, muscle, fascia or bone. The best option depends on defect needs and patient factors.
Microsurgical reconstruction may be needed for larger or three-dimensional defects where local tissue is insufficient.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery varies widely. Patients may need wound care, flap monitoring, swallowing or speech therapy, dental planning, nutritional support and staged revisions.
Scars and contour changes mature over time. Additional refinements may be considered after healing and after any cancer treatment is completed.
Risks and limitations
Risks include bleeding, infection, wound breakdown, flap or graft loss, fistula, scarring, contour irregularity, altered sensation, speech or swallowing difficulties, donor-site issues, need for further surgery and cancer-treatment related delays or complications.
FAQs
Why is head and neck reconstruction multidisciplinary?
The region affects speech, swallowing, breathing, facial movement and appearance, so several specialist teams may be needed.
What is microsurgical free flap reconstruction?
It transfers tissue from another body area and reconnects blood vessels under a microscope to reconstruct a complex defect.
Can reconstruction be refined later?
Often yes. Revision or contour-refinement procedures may be discussed after healing and after any required cancer treatment.
Related pages
Enquire about assessment
If you would like to discuss whether this procedure or treatment area is relevant to your situation, please submit an enquiry. A formal consultation is needed before any personalised advice can be given.