What Is Burn Reconstruction?
Burn reconstruction addresses the physical effects caused by severe burns.
Burns can deeply damage skin and underlying tissues due to fire, frostbite, accidents, and chemical exposures. Our reconstructive treatments focus on improving both the functional abilities and aesthetic outcomes of burn survivors.
At UPMC, we recognize the profound impact burn injuries have on people and their families. Our skilled burn reconstruction team combines advanced surgical techniques, compassionate care, and a comprehensive, personalized approach to help restore both function and appearance, significantly enhancing patients' quality of life.
Contact Us
We look forward to the privilege of providing you with the highest quality care. To schedule an appointment, please call 412-232-5616.
Conditions We Treat
Our burn reconstruction experts address various complications associated with severe burn injuries, including:
- Chronic pain – Persistent discomfort from burn injuries requiring specialized pain management strategies.
- Complex wounds — Chronic, non-healing wounds resulting from severe burns.
- Disfigurement and aesthetic deformities – Visible distortions and contour irregularities of the body.
- Functional impairments – Damage to skin, muscles, tendons, and nerves causing limited movement and reduced functionality.
- Hypertrophic scars — Thickened, raised scars that cause discomfort, itching, and aesthetic concerns.
- Scar contractures – Scar tissue tightening that restricts joint movement and function.
At UPMC, we integrate advanced surgical techniques, specialized wound care, and comprehensive therapies to deliver optimal results tailored specifically to each patient.
Burn Reconstruction Procedures and Treatments
Our board-certified plastic surgeons utilize innovative reconstructive techniques to enhance patient outcomes.
Treatments include both surgical and nonsurgical options:
Surgical procedures
- Flap surgery — Moving living tissue (skin, muscle, fat) from one part of the body to another to restore form and function.
- Reconstructive microsurgery — Precision surgeries performed under a microscope to reconnect blood vessels and nerves of complex tissues transplanted from another part of the body.
- Scar revision surgery —Techniques like excision, Z-plasty, and W-plasty to reduce tightness and improve scar appearance.
- Skin grafting — Transfer of healthy skin to cover damaged areas, improving skin coverage and reducing pain.
- Tissue expansion — Creating additional skin by gently stretching existing healthy skin for reconstruction.
Nonsurgical treatments
- Advanced pain management — Individualized pain relief strategies, including medications, nerve blocks, and minimally invasive procedures.
- Laser therapy — Reduces scar thickness, improves elasticity, and promotes collagen production to enhance scar appearance.
- Physical and occupational therapy —Exercises designed to restore mobility, strength, and function.
- Pressure garment therapy — Garments worn to flatten and soften hypertrophic scars, improving overall appearance and function.
- Silicone gel sheeting — Noninvasive sheets that hydrate and flatten scars over time.
Supportive treatments
Psychological counseling and support — Emotional support through counseling and patient support groups to assist the emotional recovery process.
Each patient receives a customized treatment plan, created by our multidisciplinary team, designed specifically to meet their personal recovery goals.
What to Expect During Your Initial Visit for Burn Reconstruction?
During your first consultation at UPMC, you'll meet our burn reconstruction specialists who will:
- Evaluate your burn injuries thoroughly.
- Discuss your aesthetic and functional concerns.
- Explain available reconstructive treatment options.
- Develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
If your care was outside the UPMC system, please bring medical records, surgical history, imaging results, and a current list of medications to your initial appointment.
Why Choose UPMC for Burn Reconstruction?
Choosing UPMC means selecting excellence in burn care from a team dedicated to your physical and emotional well-being.
World-renowned expertise
- Leading specialists in burn reconstruction, including board-certified plastic surgeons and specialized medical professionals.
- Nationally recognized experts who author influential publications and have received prestigious awards.
- Pioneering new methods through cutting-edge research and innovative clinical trials.
Personalized and multidisciplinary care
- Customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific goals and challenges.
- Integrated care involving plastic surgeons, pain management specialists, physical and occupational therapists, and psychologists.
Advanced technology and facilities
- State-of-the-art medical imaging, surgical technologies, and therapeutic resources.
- Welcoming, patient-centered environments designed to enhance comfort and ease stress during treatment.
Optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes
- Commitment to restoring both mobility and appearance for improved quality of life.
- Advanced aesthetic techniques that minimize scarring and improve body contours.
Long-term support and community
- Comprehensive rehabilitation and follow-up care to support long-term recovery.
- Support groups and community-building programs connecting patients with fellow burn survivors.
Education and advocacy
- Extensive resources to educate patients and families on the recovery process and home care.
- Strong advocacy efforts promoting burn survivors’ rights, awareness, and improved standards of care.
Choosing UPMC for your burn reconstruction journey means partnering with a compassionate team committed to your comprehensive recovery — both physically and emotionally.
Our Locations
Pittsburgh
