Burns

Burns are a serious and complex tissue injury that usually constitutes a medical emergency. The initial evaluation and treatment of a burn injury should be carried out by a specialized plastic surgeon. Burns are a systemic and not a localized disease that can affect the homeostasis of the body to such extent that an immediate admission to a specialized burn center might be required.

Thermal burns are the most common type of burns across all ages. Other types of burns include electrical, chemical and radiation burns. Thermal burns are usually caused by the direct or indirect effects of heat on the skin and the mucosas. Scalds (e.g. from boiling water or milk) are more common in children.

Thermal burns are classified by depth as first-degree (superficial), second-degree (partial thickness) and third degree (full thickness). Burn injury treatment should be immediate and effective.

The amount of cell destruction depends on the amount of heat and the amount of time that the affected body area was exposed to heat. Thus, the smaller the amount of heat and time is, the smaller the burn injury is, as well. The immediate and long-term consequences of a burn injury make immediate treatment necessary.

Burns usually leave disfiguring scars that cause aesthetic and functional problems. Reconstructive surgery can be used to deal with a burn injury and to minimize post-burn scarring. Burned areas are covered using skin grafts, while free or local flaps are used in more complex cases.

Dr. Varnalidis specializes in burn reconstructive surgery and he uses a variety of modern reconstruction techniques in order to restore the functional and physical integrity of his patients.

Safeguarding your health is my number one priority.

Dr. Varnalidis always discusses and explains each procedure step by step. He also offers extensive post-surgery advice and is here to answer any question you might have, so that a smooth recovery and the best functional and aesthetic outcome are achieved.