Reconstructive Surgery San Mateo & Redwood City

Restore form, function, and confidence with expert facial reconstruction.

Rebuilding What Matters Most

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we understand that reconstructive surgery is about more than restoring physical form—it’s about helping people regain comfort, confidence, and wholeness after trauma, illness, or congenital conditions. Whether you're recovering from skin cancer, injury, or seeking correction for a structural abnormality, our reconstructive procedures are performed with precision, compassion, and artistry.

As double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons, Drs. Elbert and Jacqueline Cheng bring a highly specialized, patient-first approach to every case. Their deep expertise in head, neck, and facial anatomy allows them to deliver results that are not only medically effective, but also aesthetically thoughtful and life-enhancing.

What Is Reconstructive Surgery?

Reconstructive surgery is a medical procedure designed to restore the normal shape and function of a body part affected by trauma, disease, congenital abnormalities, or previous surgeries. While cosmetic improvement may also result, the primary goal is medical and functional restoration.

Common indications for facial reconstruction:

Skin cancer removal (Mohs reconstruction)
Facial trauma (e.g., fractures, lacerations, burns)
Scar revision
Earlobe repair
Cheek, nose, or ear reconstruction
Cleft lip/palate repair or congenital deformities

Note: While consultations may be held in our San Mateo office, all surgical procedures are performed at our fully accredited surgical suite in Saratoga.

Specialized Facial Reconstructive Services

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we focus exclusively on the face, head, and neck, offering advanced techniques to restore delicate structures and natural appearance. Reconstructive procedures we offer:

Skin cancer reconstruction – including post-Mohs repair for nose, lips, and eyelids
Facial trauma reconstruction – for fractures, soft tissue injury, or lacerations
Ear, nose, and cheek reconstruction – from congenital issues or trauma
Earlobe repair – for torn, stretched, or gauged lobes
Scar revision – to reduce and soften the appearance of old or traumatic scars

Each surgery is uniquely tailored to the patient’s anatomy, condition, and goals for both function and aesthetics.

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Reconstruction Techniques: Flap Surgery

Many reconstructive procedures involve the use of flap techniques, where healthy tissue is transferred to restore lost or damaged areas.

Types of flaps used:

Local flap

Tissue is moved from an area adjacent to the defect and rotated into place, preserving blood supply. Ideal for facial reconstruction where tissue tone and texture match closely.

Free flap

Tissue (and its blood vessels) is completely detached from a distant donor site and microsurgically reattached. This is typically used in more complex or extensive reconstructions.

Reconstructive vs. Cosmetic Surgery

While both are branches of plastic surgery, they serve different purposes:

Reconstructive surgery restores appearance and function due to a medical condition or injury. It is often medically necessary and may be covered by insurance.
Cosmetic surgery enhances or reshapes parts of the body based on personal preference. It is considered elective and usually not covered by insurance.

Example:

Cosmetic: A rhinoplasty to refine the shape of the nose for aesthetic purposes
Reconstructive: A septoplasty to correct breathing issues due to a deviated septum

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Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery for Reconstruction?

Choosing a reconstructive surgeon is about more than credentials—it’s about trust, experience, and results that restore both form and spirit.

The Cheng Difference:

Double board-certified in facial plastic and head & neck surgery
Specialists in both cosmetic and reconstructive facial procedures
Deep experience with complex, delicate facial anatomy
A compassionate, patient-centered approach
Access to a state-of-the-art surgical facility in San Mateo
Collaboration with dermatologists, oncologists, and referring specialists

Begin Your Reconstructive Journey with Confidence

If you are seeking reconstruction due to trauma, cancer, congenital conditions, or a previous surgery, Cheng Plastic Surgery offers advanced care in a supportive and expert environment. Our goal is not just to restore, but to rebuild with precision, artistry, and humanity.

Schedule a confidential consultation in San Mateo and let us help you move forward—stronger, more whole, and ready to face the world.