Aesthetic reconstruction in burn patients

© 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Burn patients represent an important challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Reconstruction starts the first day after the initial injury and may last for a lifetime. Proper acute care and prompt rehabilitation diminish later reconstructive problems. A close patient-physician relationship is essential to render the best ultimate outcome of the patient. The reconstructive surgeon becomes at the same time friend, counselor, and physician. All plastic surgery techniques are applicable to burn reconstruction, but, more than ever; they must be tailored to the individual. Extreme care on handling tissues and close postoperative care are essential to optimize results. Reconstructive plans include plastic surgery techniques, aesthetic surgery procedures, and treatments of aesthetic medicine. Mastering all techniques is absolutely necessary. Function and aesthetics are common goals in burn reconstruction. Burn survivors deserve a strong commitment as well as admiration and respect from all healthcare professionals involved in their care.