Joint Replacement Surgery Made Cosmetic
While joint replacement surgery is primarily performed to address functional impairments and relieve pain, there have been cases where joint replacement surgery is performed with a focus on improving the cosmetic appearance of the joint. This approach is sometimes referred to as "cosmetic joint replacement" or "aesthetic joint replacement."
In cosmetic joint replacement, the surgeon takes additional care in selecting the size, shape, and position of the artificial joint components to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing outcome. The goal is to restore not only the function but also the appearance of the joint and skin. This approach is more commonly seen in joint replacements involving the knee or hip joints, as these joints may have a more visible impact on the body's appearance.
Joint replacement surgery typically involves making incisions to access the joint and replace the damaged joint components with artificial ones. Traditionally, these incisions are closed using stitches or sutures. However, in recent years, advancements in surgical techniques have led to the development of procedures that allow for joint replacement surgery without the need for traditional stitches.
The technique that eliminates the need for external stitches is called "subcuticular sutures" or "subcutaneous closure." In this method, the deeper layers of tissue are sutured together internally, and the incision is closed with absorbable sutures that are placed under the skin. The advantage of this technique is that there are no visible external stitches or sutures to be removed post-surgery and the knee looks very neat after joint replacement surgery
The specific technique used and the choice of closure method may vary depending on the joint replacement surgeon's expertise, the patient's condition, and the specific surgical approach chosen.
Keep in mind that while alternative closure methods can reduce the visibility of external stitches, it is essential to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your joint replacement surgeon to ensure proper wound healing and minimize the risk of complications.
It's important to note that the primary objective of joint replacement surgery remains the restoration of joint function and pain relief. The cosmetic aspect is typically a secondary consideration and may not be the main focus of the surgical procedure. Moreover, the extent to which joint replacement surgery can address cosmetic concerns may vary depending on individual factors and the specific joint involved.
If you are considering joint replacement surgery with a cosmetic aspect, it is crucial to discuss your expectations and goals with our experienced and best orthopaedic surgeon Dr Sivaiah Potla. He can provide guidance on what can realistically be achieved and help you understand the potential functional and aesthetic outcomes of the procedure.
