Skin Reconstruction After Burns

Burn reconstruction improves scars and restores skin, contour, and movement after a burn has healed. Tight or contracted scars that limit movement can be released, and skin can be restored using grafts, local flaps, or tissue expansion, where healthy skin nearby is gradually stretched to provide a close match.

This is reconstructive work that often takes place in planned stages over time, with both functional goals, such as restoring movement, and aesthetic goals, such as improving the appearance of scarred areas.

What it can improve

• Tight scars (contractures) that restrict movement
• Appearance and texture of burn-scarred skin
• Restoration of skin using grafts, flaps, or tissue expansion
• Function and comfort in affected areas

It cannot restore burned skin to its original state or remove scarring entirely, and significant reconstruction is usually staged rather than completed in one operation.

Quick facts

• Procedure time: 1–4 hours depending on the stage
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia, sometimes local
• Clinic stay: Same-day or short stay
• Recovery: Varies by procedure and site
• Exercise: Reintroduced gradually per stage
• Final result: Improves over many months across stages

Before the procedure

Burn reconstruction begins with a detailed assessment of the scarring, movement, and goals. A staged plan is explained, including the role of any tissue expansion, grafts, or flaps, with realistic expectations.

During the procedure

Depending on the stage, tight scar is released, and skin is restored with a graft, local flap, or expanded skin. Tissue expansion involves placing an expander under nearby healthy skin and filling it gradually before a later operation.

After the procedure

Recovery depends on the procedure and site. Scar care, support, and sometimes therapy to maintain movement are important, and the result improves over many months across the stages of the plan.

Results: what it can and cannot achieve

Improved movement, contour, and scar appearance are achievable, often substantially. Reconstruction cannot return skin to its pre-burn state and is usually staged. Your surgeon sets out a realistic, step-by-step plan.

Possible risks and complications

Burn reconstruction is planned carefully but carries surgical risks, particularly when working with scarred tissue. Possible risks include:

• Partial loss of a graft or flap
• Delayed wound healing in scarred tissue
• Infection or bleeding
• Tissue expander complications, such as exposure
• Recurrence of scar tightness
• Need for further stages or revision

Smoking and impaired circulation raise the risk of healing problems, wound complications, and tissue loss, so honest assessment and smoking cessation are especially important in reconstructive surgery.

Burn reconstruction may suit patients with healed burns affecting movement or appearance. It is especially suitable for those who:

• Have tight scars limiting movement
• Want to improve the appearance of burn-scarred skin
• Are ready for a staged, longer-term plan
• Are in suitable general health
• Do not smoke or can stop before and after surgery

It may not suit patients whose burns are still healing, where reconstruction is timed for later, or those seeking a single-step solution to extensive scarring. Your surgeon advises on timing and staging.

Reconstructive surgery by Dr. Matteo Amoroso

Reconstructive surgery at Skulpturkliniken is performed by Dr. Matteo Amoroso, a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with expertise in microsurgery.

Precision throughout the care pathway

Dr. Amoroso prioritizes both function and appearance in burn reconstruction, with a realistic, staged plan for extensive injuries.

Reconstructive precision meets aesthetic judgment

From the first consultation, Dr. Amoroso helps you understand what is realistic for your specific burn history.

Individualized assessment

Every procedure begins with a detailed assessment. We evaluate:

• The burn's depth, size, and location
• Current functional limitations
• The suitable reconstruction technique and staged planning
• Your goals and realistic expectations

Safety, precision, and long-term care

Safety is central to every step of the surgical journey. Your treatment includes:

1. ✓ Specialist consultation with Dr. Matteo Amoroso
2. ✓ Detailed assessment and individualized surgical planning
3. ✓ Careful evaluation of whether surgery is the right option
4. ✓ Guidance before each stage
5. ✓ Surgery in a safe and controlled surgical environment
6. ✓ Scheduled postoperative follow-up visits after each stage
7. ✓ Direct access to the surgeon and nursing team
8. ✓ Digital medical records through Adoreal®
9. ✓ Patient insurance through Folksam
10. ✓ Long-term postoperative support