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Specialization:
Head & Neck Cancer Reconstruction
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Consultant:
Dr. Dipmalya Chatterjee
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Focus Areas:
Functional & Aesthetic Restoration
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Certifications:
Board Certified Reconstructive Surgeon
Advanced Reconstructive Solutions Following Head & Neck Cancer Removal
Head and neck cancer reconstruction represents one of the most complex and demanding areas of plastic surgery, requiring sophisticated microsurgical techniques to restore critical functions such as speech, swallowing, and breathing while addressing aesthetic concerns following cancer resection. Our multidisciplinary team works closely with head and neck surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and speech therapists to develop comprehensive reconstruction plans that optimize both oncologic outcomes and quality of life.
Reconstruction Techniques
Jaw Reconstruction
Microvascular transfer of fibula or other vascularized bone grafts to reconstruct mandibular or maxillary defects with dental rehabilitation options.
Tongue & Oral Cavity Reconstruction
Free flap reconstruction of glossectomy defects to preserve speech articulation and swallowing function using innervated muscle flaps.
Facial Skin & Soft Tissue Reconstruction
Restoration of facial contour and skin coverage using local, regional, or free flaps following skin cancer or soft tissue resection.
Pharyngeal & Esophageal Reconstruction
Reconstruction of pharyngectomy defects to restore swallowing function and prevent strictures using jejunal or fasciocutaneous flaps.
Skull Base Reconstruction
Complex reconstruction of anterior and lateral skull base defects to separate cranial cavity from sinonasal tract and prevent CSF leaks.
Tracheal & Laryngeal Reconstruction
Restoration of airway and phonation following partial or total laryngectomy using cartilage grafts and mucosal flaps.
The Multidisciplinary Reconstruction Process
Successful head and neck reconstruction begins with comprehensive tumor board evaluation where surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and reconstructive surgeons collaborate to develop an integrated treatment plan. Preoperative planning involves advanced imaging (CT, MRI, PET scans), dental evaluation, speech and swallow assessment, and meticulous surgical planning. Intraoperative collaboration between the ablation and reconstruction teams ensures seamless transition from cancer resection to functional restoration.
Our Collaborative Model
Integrated care with head and neck oncology teams ensures optimal oncologic and functional outcomes.
- Weekly head & neck tumor board
- Coordinated ablation-reconstruction planning
- Intraoperative team collaboration
- Postoperative rehabilitation integration
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Postoperative recovery focuses on wound healing, flap monitoring, and early initiation of swallowing and speech therapy. We coordinate closely with speech-language pathologists and nutritionists to optimize functional outcomes. Long-term rehabilitation addresses speech articulation, swallowing efficiency, dental rehabilitation, and aesthetic refinements. Secondary procedures may include debulking flaps, scar revision, or prosthetic rehabilitation to optimize both function and appearance. Our comprehensive approach aims to restore patients' ability to communicate, eat, and interact socially with confidence.