Liposuction body sculpting and fat reduction surgery has been around for almost four decades. Over the years, the procedure has become less invasive and more effective.

However, the skill and experience of the operating surgeon continue to have the maximum impact on the final results. Therefore, it is important for patients to choose the best possible surgeon for liposuction carefully.

Ideally, a liposuction cosmetic surgery candidate should have a clear idea about all facets of the procedure and the background of the surgeon performing it.

A well-informed patient will be better placed to make judicious decisions and will usually accomplish higher levels of satisfaction from the outcomes of the procedure.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides liposuction body contouring to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

 

Individualized Care

The reliable Dr. McLain has vast expertise in some of the most advanced techniques to perform body sculpting procedures, such as liposuction.

He has a patient-centric mindset, offers individualized care to each patient, and ensures that the patient is fully satisfied in every liposuction and other surgical procedure undertaken by him.

Dr. McLain and his staff strive to help patients achieve their cosmetic goals, while simultaneously enhancing their general health and happiness levels. They will interact closely with the patient during the pre-op consultation process and develop a good relationship with them.

 

Things to Consider

Prior to seeking an appropriate surgeon for their needs, the patient should create a checklist of questions, which will help them determine their choice of surgeon. While patients understandably want to choose a surgeon with the right credentials and experience, they will also want to identify a surgeon whose fees are suitable to their budget.

Understanding the surgeon’s bedside manner is also essential. Are they seeking a friendly surgeon who will be with them at every step of the procedure or someone who has a more clinical and business-like outlook to the process?

Would the patient want to work with a cosmetic surgeon who provides guidance on the most suitable procedure or one who will do exactly as asked of them? It is important to assess these factors before consulting a surgeon to avoid being overly influenced by that doctor’s personal style.

The patient should evaluate how they would like their potential surgeon to answer the following questions. This will help them choose a surgeon who is most suitable for their particular needs.

 

Choosing the Right Surgeon: Checklist

• What are your qualifications, experience, and certifications?
• What number of years of experience in cosmetic surgery do you have?
• How many cosmetic surgeries have you performed to date?
• Can I see examples of your previous work?
• What procedure do you recommend to help me achieve my objectives?
• Is a specific procedure suitable for me? If not, what options do you recommend?
• What are my options if I find the final results unsatisfactory?
• What will the estimated cost of the procedure?
• What additional expenses can I expect?
• Will you perform my surgery?
• What are the possible risks and complications associated with this procedure?
• What will the recovery stage involve?
• How sustainable are the results?

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for liposuction body contouring.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

A person may consider liposuction body contouring cosmetic surgery to enhance their body shape. In the last few decades, liposuction has become widely available and affordable to patients due to developments in surgical technology.

Many individuals in the United States today are able to accomplish a sleeker and more youthful physical appearance with liposuction. It is important for the patient to work with the best liposuction surgeon for beautiful and safe outcomes.

The surgeon should have the necessary training, professional credentials, and substantial experience to perform surgical procedures in a safe and effective way.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides liposuction body contouring to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Professional Credentials of Dr. McLain

Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS is a double board certified oral & maxillofacial and cosmetic surgeon. He has extensive experience in offering a wide array of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

Apart from devoting time to his practice, Dr. McLain also lectures and serves as faculty for live surgical workshops that are sponsored by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS).

Additionally, Dr. McLain trains cosmetic surgeons from across the globe. He also serves as an examiner for the renowned American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS).

 

Focus on Customization and Innovation

Each person has unique anatomy, and the liposuction surgeon should be able to develop an individualized surgical plan to match the unique aesthetic and physical needs of the patient.

Patients can expect the highest rates of satisfaction when the procedure is customized to offer more comprehensive and natural looking results.

To accomplish excellent outcomes in a body sculpting procedure such as liposuction, the surgeon should update their skills and knowledge consistently and use the most innovative and proven surgical techniques and technologies available.

Patients receive the most benefit from the use of advanced cosmetic solutions which are typically an improvement on previous technologies and techniques.

 

A Combination of Art and Science

The surgeon must develop a seamless combination of art and science to create outcomes that are beautiful and safe. A comprehensive and customized approach to liposuction body sculpting will allow the surgeon to produce results that are sustainable, natural looking, and at the same time, cosmetically appealing to the patient.

 

Individualized Attention and Care

It is vital for the patient to feel comfortable with the surgeon and their staff. They should experience a warm and comfortable environment where they will be assured of top-notch standards of care.

Additionally, the patient should feel satisfied with their interactions with the surgeon and their team and be able to achieve desirable results in each case.

 

Comprehensive Treatments

The surgeon should offer information to the patient on all surgical and non-surgical cosmetic solutions that can address their concerns. They should use cutting-edge technology and the most advanced techniques to offer the patient the highest level of care.

An expert surgeon will be able to perform multiple procedures at the same time to reduce the treatment duration and achieve outcomes that align with the unique aesthetic goals of the patient. An in-depth consultation should precede every liposuction procedure.

 

Review the Surgeon’s Website before Deciding

Prior to visiting a surgeon for a pre-op consultation, the patient should review the surgeon’s practice website. This will provide them with comprehensive information about the practice and the surgeon’s background.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for liposuction body contouring.

 

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

If one or both ears are malformed, it can lead to frustration and low self-confidence in adults and children alike. Many times, defects in the ear shape or protuberant ears may be present since birth.

However, ear injury can also cause a deformed shape. Otoplasty is an effective and proven cosmetic surgery procedure to restore an appealing, natural looking shape and size of the ears.

Otoplasty or ear reshaping surgery or ear pinning surgery is meant to correct large, asymmetrical or awkward looking ears. A skilled and experienced surgeon will use cutting-edge surgical techniques to ensure that this procedure is more precise and less invasive.

Dr. Landon D. McLain provides otoplasty cosmetic surgery procedure to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Appropriate Candidates

A person who is unhappy about the appearance of their oddly shaped or prominent ears may be a suitable ear reshaping surgery candidate.

Before considering a patient for otoplasty, the surgeon will evaluate the patient’s overall health condition, facial anatomy, and their personal cosmetic goals and desires.

The patient may require ear reconstruction in combination with reshaping if they have suffered an ear injury.

Children whose ears are fully developed can also make ideal candidates for otoplasty as long as they are old enough to choose the procedure with a fundamental understanding of why they want to undergo it. This surgery is appropriate for kids who feel shy or unhappy in their peer group due to their oddly shaped ears.

 

Procedure

The ear is made up mainly of cartilage, which can be sculpted by the cosmetic surgeon to develop the desired size or shape.

The objective is to develop a shape that is harmonious with the other characteristics of the face and is proportional to the head shape. It is also crucial to make sure that both ears resemble each other in a mirrored manner.

The patient should have reasonable expectations from the procedure. The surgeon will inform them that the ears cannot be identical to each other. It may appear unnatural, while the procedure aims to create natural looking ears.

In many cases, a skilled surgeon will only change one ear to accomplish a balanced appearance and make the procedure less invasive. But some patients may need correction in both ears.

After making the necessary changes, the surgeon will place stitches. These will be taken out in around one week after the ear surgery. The incisions will be made behind the ears to ensure that any future scarring remains discreet.

 

Recovery

After otoplasty, an average patient will be able to return to their normal routine or resume work in around one week. However, they will need to avoid aggressive physical activities for nearly two weeks to allow the healing to be completed.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for otoplasty cosmetic surgery.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

The accumulation of excess fat tissue in the abdominal area is a common aesthetic concern among adults across various age groups. After a while, these fat deposits become stubborn and may not respond to diet or exercise.

In such cases, a cosmetic surgery procedure may help reduce unwanted fats and restore a slimmer abdomen with improved contours. Tummy tuck and liposuction are the two primary surgical procedures to improve body contours in the waist area.

Dr. Landon D. McLain provides body contouring cosmetic surgery procedures to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Primary Differences

Tummy tuck and liposuction cosmetic surgeries are quite different from each other in several respects. At the time of the pre-op consultation, the surgeon will explain the key aspects of both procedures to help them make an informed decision.

 

Reduction of Excess Skin and Fat

In addition to excess fat in the abdominal area, many individuals develop loose skin as well as separated underlying muscles. These conditions may make the abdomen sag significantly. A tummy tuck may be a more effective cosmetic surgery option.

Liposuction, on the other hand, is meant to reduce unwanted fat pockets. However, it is not designed to tighten sagging skin or address weakened muscles.

 

Complexity of Surgery

A tummy tuck is often a more complicated procedure compared to liposuction. The patient will typically undergo this surgery under general anesthesia, and the procedure may take longer to complete. A tummy tuck will usually require a more comprehensive surgical approach involving skin and muscle tightening along with fat reduction.

Liposuction is usually less invasive relative to a tummy tuck. It is typically undertaken with local anesthesia (with tumescent liposuction technique).

Smaller incisions are made in this procedure, and the muscles are also not involved. In addition, the use of ultrasound or laser can make this surgical procedure more targeted and less invasive.

 

Length of Scars

The surgeon may need to make more than one incision in a traditional tummy tuck, especially if both the upper and lower abdominal areas need fat reduction. The incisions will be relatively smaller in liposuction. In particular, tumescent liposuction is a conservative technique involving smaller incisions.

The scar length will typically be more extensive in a tummy tuck surgery. A skilled cosmetic surgeon will try to make sure than these scars remain discreet by placing them in unnoticeable sites.

 

Recovery Duration

The downtime after liposuction will be less with most patients being able to resume their routine activities and work in less than one week after the surgery. On the other hand, a tummy tuck surgery will involve downtime of nearly 10 to 14 days as the incisions may take longer to heal.

 

Qualified Candidates

Suitable liposuction candidates will have fairly good skin elasticity and moderate body weight, with only undesirable fat pockets in specific areas.

In comparison, tummy tuck candidates will have looser skin and weakened underlying muscles as well as significant fat deposits in the waist area that need to be addressed.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for body contouring cosmetic surgery procedures.

 

 

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Fat cells are distinct in their behavior in comparison to other kinds of cells. Upon reaching adulthood, the total number of fat cells in the human body remains quite stable.

Weight loss and gain do not occur by adding or reducing fat cells. Rather, it happens when the existing fat cells get smaller or bigger.

In case the patient has excess fat cells in specific sites, such as the thighs, lower belly, or neck, these areas will be challenging to reduce with diet and exercise alone. Additionally, if a person loses weight, all of their fat cells will shrink, not merely in their “problem” areas.

This means that places, where they might appreciate having some volume (such as the breasts), will reduce in size along with the rest of their body when they lose weight. Summarily, their overall proportions will not change much without external intervention.

 

A Helping Hand

Liposuction manually eliminates fat cells from treatment areas. A skilled cosmetic surgeon can help “even the playing field” by suctioning out excess fat cells in a precise pattern, reducing the total number of fat cells and contouring the area for a more proportional, desirable shape.

Dr. Landon D. McLain provides liposuction cosmetic surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

How long does Liposuction Last?

The good news is that the outcomes of liposuction can last for several years. The fat cells are manually removed, and the body cannot re-grow them. Therefore, these cells are permanently eliminated.

In addition, the patient will not accumulate more fat in the remaining cells in the treated sites if they maintain a stable weight and follow a balanced lifestyle.

It is a common myth that fat cells eliminated from one area will show up in another. While this is untrue, the patient will still need to be vigilant about following a healthy diet and exercise regimen.

 

Liposuction is not a Weight-Loss Procedure

Liposuction can help an individual spot-reduce stubborn fatty deposit relatively fast. However, this is not a free ticket to eat as much as they want! Liposuction is not designed to be a weight-loss procedure, and it does not guarantee that the patient will never put on weight again.

If a person consumes more calories than they burn, they can put weight back on after liposuction. The liposuction treated areas will not regain the same amount of fat as they would have without liposuction.

However, the fat cells that remain in the area will become larger with weight gain, and can potentially “cancel out” the lipo outcomes.

 

How to ensure your Liposuction Outcomes will last

Patients should commit to a healthy lifestyle and make the necessary adjustments to their diet and exercise habits prior to undergoing liposuction. The most satisfied liposuction patients are those who are fit, healthy, and within five to ten pounds of their optimal weight.

In addition, it is vital to understand that long-lasting does not imply forever. The aging process cannot be stopped by any cosmetic procedure. It is normal for an individual’s metabolism to slow down over time and for the body composition to change.

People may notice things about their body that they would like to change years down the road. In such cases, the patient should consult a skilled cosmetic surgeon to understand their options to touch up their results or mitigate signs of aging.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for liposuction cosmetic surgery.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Oral cancer is usually detected during a routine medical or dental examination.

The medical care provider should check for indications of oral cancer during regular exams. The patient should also inform their treatment provider if they have noticed any symptoms.

Dr. Landon D. McLain provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Diagnostic Exams and Tests

If the doctor suspects oral cancer, they will order certain exams and tests to be certain. They will ask the patient about their health history, symptoms, risk factors, and family history of the disease.

They will also perform an oral exam, which involves looking at the patient’s head or neck and checking inside the mouth. The healthcare provider may also view the back of the patient’s mouth and throat with small mirrors or with a flexible, lighted tube.

This tube is known as a laryngoscope or a pharyngoscope. On the basis of the outcomes, the medical care provider may decide whether the patient requires a biopsy to check for cancer.

A biopsy is the only definitive way to detect cancer. Tiny pieces of tissue are removed and assessed for cancer cells. The results will come back in around one week.

Following an oral cancer diagnosis, the patient will likely require other tests. These help the doctor understand more about the patient’s cancer.

The stage is determined based on how much and how far cancer has spread (metastasized) in the body. When deciding how to treat cancer, this is one of the most important factors to assess.

After the cancer is assigned a stage, the medical care provider will speak to the patient about what the stage means for their treatment. The patient should ask their medical care provider to explain the stage of their cancer in a manner that they can comprehend.

 

How is Oral Cancer Treated?

The treatment options will depend on the type of oral cancer that the patient has, test results, and the stage of cancer. The objective of the treatment may be to cure the disease, control cancer, or help ease issues caused by cancer.

The patient should discuss their treatment options, the objectives of the treatment, and the risks and side-effects associated with the treatment with their medical care team. Other factors to be assessed are whether cancer can be eliminated with surgery and the patient’s general health condition.

Cancer treatments can be either local or systemic. Local treatments, eliminate, destruct, or control cancer cells in one region. Radiation and surgery are local treatments. Surgery is a common treatment for oral cancer.

Systemic treatment destructs or controls cancer cells that may have spread through the body. Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment when taken by pill or injection. The patient may undergo only one treatment or a combination of treatments.

The treatment of oral cancer may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Supportive care

Patients should consult their medical care provider regarding their treatment options. They should prepare a list of questions beforehand while thinking about the benefits and potential side effects of each alternative.

 

Coping with Oral Cancer

Many individuals feel depressed, worried, and stressed when trying to cope with cancer. Undergoing cancer treatment can be hard on the mind and body. Patients should keep talking to their medical team about any issues or concerns that they may have.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

If an accident or injury causes trauma to the face, cosmetic surgery can help restore facial appearance and function. The surgical techniques and approaches will differ depending on the severity and location of the injury.

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon can use their specialized skills to perform various procedures, from simple wound closure to skin grafts, flaps, and bony fracture repair.

These surgeons devote a significant part of their professional lives assisting people to overcome traumatic facial injuries. Their goal is to restore the function and appearance of the face to its pre-injury state.

McLain Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

 

What are Common Types of Facial Trauma?

Trauma to the face may occur in various ways and can damage the soft tissue, underlying bone, or facial and jaw nerves. Due to the delicate nature of facial injuries and their ability to cause a high level of emotional and physical distress, early assessment and immediate treatment of facial trauma are vital to attaining the best possible results.

Facial trauma reconstruction can generally be used to address:

Facial Lacerations

Soft tissue injuries characterized by cuts, tears, or breaks in the skin, subcutaneous tissue, or underlying muscle. Facial lacerations commonly occur due to extreme pressure or blunt force impact.

Fractures Facial Bones

Facial fractures can develop within the nose structure, orbital (eye) sockets, or cheekbones. Nasal fractures are the most commonly occurring type of facial fracture due to the thin and fragile bones and cartilage in the nose.

Factors determining the suitable treatment for fractured bones include the patient’s health, age, and location and severity of the fracture.

Fractured Upper and/or Lower Jaw

Fractures in the upper and lower jaw may warrant surgery in order to properly realign the jaw as well as restore normal biting and chewing function.

Injuries of the Facial Nerves

Injuries that lead to facial weakness or paralysis should be promptly examined. There are many innovative techniques available to restore normal facial movement.

The patient will typically require a CT scan to evaluate the extent of the injury properly and determine the necessary steps for function restoration and attaining an optimal cosmetic outcome.

 

How is Facial Trauma Treated?

Soft Tissue Injuries

Depending on the severity of the injury, facial lacerations can usually be addressed with suturing and stitches. Along with treating the apparent breaks in the skin, the underlying facial structures, such as the ducts, salivary glands, and facial nerves, must be treated with utmost care.

People who have concerns about facial scarring can consult our reconstructive surgeons to undergo revision surgery. This can significantly reduce the appearance of unattractive scars.

Bone Injuries

Similar to bone injuries in the extremities, facial fractures also require stabilization to encourage proper healing.

Rigid fixation is a technique for stabilization where tiny plates and screws are surgically placed to prevent movement within the facial structure.

Some jaw fractures may need the upper and lower jaws to be temporarily wired shut to heal the fracture or reposition dislodged boned.

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

The term dental avulsion means the complete removal of a tooth from its sockets following a traumatic injury. Injuries to the front teeth are quite common during childhood. It is a severe injury when the tooth is completely knocked out of its socket (avulsed).

Avulsion injuries have the most impact on the maxillary central incisors. There is less mineralized bone structure in permanent teeth that have not matured yet. Also, the periodontal ligamentum structure in such teeth is looser. This makes these teeth more vulnerable to extrusive forces.

For this reason, children between the ages of seven and nine years usually experience from avulsion due to dental trauma. McLain Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Replanting the Natural Tooth

The best option is to replant the tooth as soon as possible. Once the tooth is replanted, it can heal in two ways if treated properly. The best case scenario is that the ligament surrounding the tooth reforms and the longevity of the tooth is the same as other teeth. This is known as “periodontal healing.”

If the ligament damage is excessive, the healing will occur with a bony replacement. “Bony healing” means that the bone replaces the tooth and is lost over the next few years.

 

What Your Dentist Will Do

It can sometimes be simple to put the tooth back in place. At other times, it can be complex, such as when the bone or tooth is broken. The dentist will use water to flush debris from the socket.

Subsequently, they will slip the tooth back in position. It is vital to re-plant the tooth as soon as possible. This should ideally take place within the hour of the injury.

The dentist may undertake a root canal simultaneously or may wait. The best treatment course will depend upon how long the tooth remained out of the mouth and other aspects.

The dentist will, in any case, splint the avulsed tooth to the other teeth on either side using a soft wire and/or composite material. This will help hold the tooth in position for several days. The dentist will decide the duration for which the splint should remain in place.

In case the bone around the tooth was not fractured, the root typically will re-attach tightly to the bone in around three to four weeks. A repair time of six to eight weeks may be necessary if there is more damage to the area.

The dentist should re-examine the tooth in three to six months. Unless there are any indications of an infection, the next visit will take place at the annual checkup. The dentist will follow-up for the next two to three years to make sure that the tooth replanting was successful.

If the tooth is replanted before the patient reaches the oral surgeon’s office, the surgeon may do the following:

• Allow the tooth to remain in place
• Cleanse the site with saline, water spray, or chlorhexidine
• Suture gingival lacerations, if necessary
• Evaluate the normal placement of the tooth with an x-ray as well as clinically
• Place a flexible splint for up to two weeks
• The surgeon will also commence root canal treatment between seven to ten days of the replantation and before removing the splint

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Mouth cancer treatment depends on the stage and location of cancer, and the general health and personal preferences of the patient.

The patient may undergo only one type of treatment or a combination of cancer treatments. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are some treatment options. Patients should discuss their options with their doctor.

McLain Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

 

Surgery

Mouth cancer surgery may include:

 

Surgery to Remove the Tumor

The surgeon may excise the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it to make sure that all the cancer cells have been eliminated. Only minor surgery may be necessary to remove smaller cancers.

Larger tumors may need more extensive surgery. For example, excising a larger tumor may involve excising a section of the jawbone and a portion of the tongue.

 

Surgery to Eliminate Cancer that has Spread to the Neck

In case cancer cells have spread to the lymph nodes in the neck or if there is a high risk that this has occurred on the basis of the size and depth of cancer, the surgeon may recommend the patient to undergo a surgical procedure. This will involve removal of the lymph nodes and related tissue in the neck, also known as neck dissection.

This procedure eliminates any cancer cells that may have spread to the lymph nodes. It is also helpful in establishing whether the patient will require additional treatment following surgery.

 

Surgery to Reconstruct the Mouth

Following surgery to remove cancer, the surgeon may recommend reconstructive surgery to the patient to rebuild their mouth and regain the ability to speak and eat.

To reconstruct the mouth, the surgeon may transplant grafts of muscle, skin, or bone from other areas of the body. The patient may also require dental implants to replace natural teeth.

 

Surgery Carries a Risk of Bleeding and Infection

Mouth cancer surgery often impacts a person’s appearance and their ability to talk, eat, and swallow.

The patient may require a tube to help them eat, drink, and take medicine. The tube may be inserted through the nose and into the stomach for short-term use. For longer-term use, a tube may be inserted through the skin and into the stomach.

The doctor may refer the patient to specialists who can assist them in coping with these changes.

 

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy makes use of high-energy beams, such as protons and rays, to eliminate cancer cells. While this therapy is usually delivered from a machine outside the body (external beam radiation), it can also come from radioactive seeds and wires that are placed near the cancer (brachytherapy).

Radiation therapy is commonly used after surgery. However, at times, it might be used by itself if the patient has early-stage mouth cancer. Sometimes radiation therapy may be delivered in combination with chemotherapy.

While this combination enhances the effectiveness of radiation therapy, it also increases the side-effects that the patient may experience. Radiation therapy may help relieve cancer signs and symptoms, such as pain, in cases of advanced mouth cancer.

 

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy refers to a treatment technique that makes use of chemicals to eliminate cancer cells. Chemotherapy medications can be given alone, or along with other chemotherapy drugs or combined with other cancer treatments. Since chemotherapy may increase the efficacy of radiation therapy, the two are often given in combination.

 

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Oral cancer initiates in the mouth, also known as the oral cavity.

This area of the body includes the lips, the inside lining of the cheeks and lips (buccal mucosa), the gums, the teeth, most of the tongue, the floor of the mouth, and the body roof of the mouth (hard palate).

On top of this, oral cancer can also develop in the oropharynx. This is the area of the throat right behind the mouth. When cancer develops in this region, it is known as oropharyngeal cancer or throat cancer and may include the back of the mouth roof, the back of the tongue, the tonsils, and the walls of the upper throat.  

The oropharynx and the oral cavity are vital for healthy body function. They help us eat, speak, and breathe. The salivary glands in the oral cavity break down the food as a person chews, which is an important part of digestion.

Cancer can occur in any area of the oral cavity. As each region of the oral cavity is distinct, oral cancer refers to a wide range of cancer types that are treated in various different ways.

According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 51,540 people in the US were diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer in 2018.

McLain Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Symptoms

Mouth cancer may present the following signs and symptoms:

• A mouth or lip sore that does not heal
• A white or red patch within the mouth
• Loose teeth
• A lump or growth inside the mouth
• Pain in the mouth
• Pain in the ear
• Pain or difficulty in swallowing

 

When to Consult a Doctor

A person experiencing persistent signs and symptoms that last for over two weeks should consult their doctor or dentist. The doctor will likely examine for other more common reasons for the signs and symptoms initially, such as an infection.

 

Prevention

While there is no sure shot way to prevent mouth cancer, a person can reduce their risk of developing mouth cancer if they:

• Discontinue or never use tobacco. People using tobacco should stop its use. Individuals who not use tobacco should not start doing so. Tobacco use, whether chewed or smoked, exposes the mouth cells to dangerous cancer-causing chemicals.
• Consume alcohol in moderation, if at all. The chronic excessive use of alcohol can irritate the mouth cells making them more susceptible to developing mouth cancer. If a person drinks alcohol, they should do so in moderation.
• Avoid too much sun exposure to the lips. Protect the skin on the lips from sunlight by remaining in the shade when possible. Use a wide-brimmed hat that effectively shades the whole face, including the mouth. Include applying a sunscreen lip product as a part of the routine sun protection regimen.
• Consult the dentist routinely as well as ask them to inspect the entire mouth for abnormal areas that may indicate mouth cancer or precancerous lesions.

 

Causes

Mouth cancers occur when the cells in the mouth or on the lips develop mutations (changes) in their DNA. The DNA of a cell contains the guidelines that tell a cell how to function. The mutation changes instruct cells to continue growing and proliferating when normal cells would die.

The accumulation of abnormal mouth cancer cells can develop into a tumor. Over time, they may spread within the mouth as well as on to other regions of the neck and head or other body parts.

 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.