Head and Neck Cancer and Reconstruction

Healing after external defect reconstruction is usually uneventful. Minor complications such as localized infection and bleeding may occur, and in most instances can be managed with antibiotics and local pressure respectively. Very rarely is an unplanned return trip to the operating room required. You may require follow up procedures for touching up of the reconstruction to get things just right.

For internal/intra-oral defects, early complications include issues with flap circulation, neck abscess formation and salivary leak. These should be addressed emergently and you may require a re-operation. While your surgeon will always try their best to ensure all the goals are achieved in a single surgery, there is always a risk of complications.

General risks of microsurgery include, but are not limited to:

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon if you have any issues to clear up. We will be happy to reply.