Reconstruction
Some people with oral cancer may need to have plastic or reconstructive surgery
to rebuild the bones or tissues of the mouth. Research has led to many advances
in the way bones and tissues can be replaced.
Some people may need
dental implants.
Or they may need to have
grafts
(tissue
moved from another part of the body). Skin, muscle, and bone can be moved to
the oral cavity from the chest, arm, or leg. The plastic surgeon uses this
tissue for repair.
If you are thinking about reconstruction, you may wish to consult with a
plastic or
reconstructive surgeon
before your treatment begins. You can have
reconstructive surgery at the same time as you have the cancer removed, or you
can have it later on. Talk with your doctor about which approach is right for
you.
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