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Reconstruct/Transform

There’s a lot more to plastic surgery than what you see on TV.

When it comes to plastic surgery, most people think of cosmetic enhancements and “who’s getting what done” in Hollywood. In reality, plastic surgery often involves reconstructive procedures that help people lead normal lifestyles, especially cancer patients and trauma victims.

“A lot of our patients come from other services — neurosurgery; orthopedics; the burn unit; ear, nose and throat; and podiatry,” said Darl Vandevender, MD, associate professor, surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery; director, microvascular surgery. “They are patients with wounds, infections or tumors that need to be reconstructed.”

But aesthetic and reconstructive lines often intersect — reconstructive surgeries can be cosmetic, and cosmetic surgeries can be reconstructive. Plastic surgeons at Loyola perform both types.

Among the cosmetic procedures available are abdominoplasty, eyelid surgery, breast augmentation, filler injections, facelifts, liposuction and rhinoplasty. Reconstructive surgeries include tissue transplantation, reconstructive burn treatment, breast reconstruction and scar revisions.

Before a trip to the operating room, prospective patients must undergo a series of consultations to talk about the procedure and expectations for the outcome.

“Our purpose is to do what’s reasonable and what’s appropriate,” said Dr. Vandevender. “There are some times when you have to say, ‘I just can’t do this for you.’ And I don’t think you see that very often on TV.”

Loyola’s plastic surgeons tend to see themselves in a different light. “I think we’re much more doctor and much less Hollywood,” joked Dr. Vandevender. In other words, you won’t see “Dr. 60153” on TV anytime soon.

Discover the Truth about Plastic Surgery

Services are available in Maywood, Oakbrook Terrace and Homer Glen. To make an appointment, call (888) LUHS-888.