Dr. Murat Kaan Sözer

A flap is a piece of tissue that is carried with its own blood circulation. If the wound is too large to be closed, underlying structures such as bone or tendon are exposed, and repair with simple stitches will not be sufficient, flap surgery is considered.

The tissue can be transferred by shifting it from a neighboring area or by taking it with its vessels from a distant area and connecting it to the new place using microsurgical technique. The choice is made according to the size and location of the defect and the type of tissue needed in that area.

In some cases, surgery cannot be completed in a single session. In order to strengthen the blood supply of the tissue to be transferred, preparations can be made first and the actual transfer can be postponed until later. This approach is discussed with the patient during the planning phase.

The outcome of repair surgery does not depend solely on the surgical technique. The blood supply of the tissue and the general condition of the patient are also decisive. Smoking narrows small vessels, reducing blood flow to the tissue and making healing difficult.

Diabetes, vascular diseases, nutritional deficiency and some medications also affect the process. For this reason, blood sugar levels, circulatory status and medications used are reviewed before surgery.

It is important not to apply pressure to the repaired area after the surgery, to maintain the recommended position and to comply with the dressing schedule. Recovery is a process that takes weeks. The color, temperature and swelling of the tissue are evaluated at regular intervals and the plan is updated when necessary.

Every surgical procedure leaves a scar. The aim is not to eliminate the scar, but to make it as less obvious as possible. The appearance of the scar is related to the location and direction of the incision, the tension of the tissue, the patient's age and skin structure.

In some people, excessive tissue proliferation occurs during healing and the scar takes on a swollen, red appearance. This tendency varies from person to person. How previous scars heal provides guidance in this regard.

Sun protection is recommended in the first months to prevent the scar from darkening. Silicone-containing products, massage and printed tapes are among the methods used in scar care. Additional interventions may be considered for raised scars. However, the decision is waited for the permission to mature.