Welcome to Plastic Surgery

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center offers plastic and reconstructive surgery for patients facing the challenges of traumatic injury, cancer treatment, or complex surgical needs have access to world-class care. Our surgeons offer comprehensive treatment and expertise with experience in trauma, cancer reconstruction, post-bariatric care after weight loss, cosmetic surgery, and aesthetic surgery, restoring both form and function, helping patients return to their lives with strength, confidence, and dignity.

Trauma and Cancer Reconstruction: Restoring Form and Function

As a Level I Trauma Center, Jamaica Hospital is on the front line of caring for patients with severe and complex injuries. In these circumstances, reconstructive surgery is often essential, not just to repair visible damage, but also to restore breathing, swallowing, speaking, vision, or mobility. We specialize in advanced reconstructive procedures that address these challenges while aiming for results that are both functional and natural in appearance.

For patients recovering from head and neck trauma, reconstruction may involve intricate repair of facial bones, eyelids, or soft tissues. For those affected by cancer, especially head and neck cancers that require tumor removal, our surgeons work closely with other surgical teams to rebuild facial features, restore contour, and minimize visible scarring.

Services in Reconstructive Care

The Queens community is home to a diverse population with unique healthcare challenges. Many residents face language barriers, transportation difficulties, appointment access issues, and work conflicts that prevent them from seeking timely medical care. At MediSys Health Network, we are committed to addressing these barriers with tailored solutions to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all.
Head and Neck Reconstruction
Trauma, cancer surgery, or congenital conditions can leave patients with complex defects of the face, jaw, or neck. Head and neck reconstruction focuses on restoring both appearance and essential functions such as speech, swallowing, and breathing. The surgical team utilizes advanced reconstructive techniques to rebuild bone, soft tissue, and skin, while carefully shaping results to look natural. Whether rebuilding after a car accident, repairing facial fractures, or reconstructing following tumor removal, the goal is always to restore balance, symmetry, and quality of life.

Eyelid and Periocular Reconstruction
The delicate structures around the eyes are vital, not only for appearance but also for vision and protection of the eye itself. Injuries, burns, or tumor removal can significantly affect these areas. Reconstructive eyelid surgery repairs defects, restores eyelid movement, and re-establishes natural contours. Special attention is given to symmetry, so that patients regain both function and a natural, harmonious appearance. Techniques may also include rebuilding the tear ducts or supporting eye socket to preserve vision.
Local Flap Surgery
In many reconstructive cases, the most effective tissue for repair comes from the patient’s own body. Local flap surgery involves moving healthy tissue, such as skin, fat, or muscle, from a nearby area to cover and repair defects. This method often preserves blood supply and enhances healing. Local flaps are commonly used after cancer resections or trauma, particularly for the face, scalp, and neck. The approach minimizes scarring, maintains natural coloration and texture, and helps ensure long-lasting results.
Scar Revision and Camouflage
Scars, whether from injuries, burns, or surgery, can affect both function and appearance. Scar revision surgery seeks to reduce their visibility and, when needed, release scar tissue that restricts movement. Techniques may involve excision, laser therapy, injections, or the repositioning of scars so they blend more naturally with surrounding skin lines. The aim is not to erase scars completely, but to make them far less noticeable and restore confidence while improving skin flexibility.
Functional Restoration
Reconstructive surgery extends beyond appearance; it often restores vital everyday functions that trauma or cancer may compromise. These procedures help patients breathe more freely, chew and swallow safely, and speak clearly after injury or surgery. Depending on the case, functional restoration may involve reconstructing the jaw or oral cavity, repositioning tissues for airway support, or rebuilding areas of the throat. By addressing both aesthetics and function, our surgical team ensures that patients not only look whole again, but also regain independence in their daily lives.

Cosmetic Surgery : Refinements

Eyelid Rejuvenation
(Blepharoplasty) – with hidden-incision techniques.
Brow and Forehead Lifts
Subtle elevation to correct drooping brows.
Facelifts and Neck Lifts
Restoring contour while maintaining natural expression.
Liposuction
Reducing stubborn fullness under the chin or nearly anywhere on the body.

Why Choose Plastic Surgery at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center?

Level I Trauma Expertise
As a leading trauma center, Jamaica Hospital treats some of the most severe injury cases in New York. Having reconstructive surgery embedded in this system ensures patients receive immediate, coordinated, and expert care.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
Our surgeons utilize state-of-the-art methods, including tissue flaps, skin grafting, hidden-scar approaches, and rapid recovery protocols to optimize both function and appearance.
Natural Outcomes
Whether reconstructive or cosmetic, the focus remains on restoring authenticity –patients should look and feel like themselves, not altered or artificial.
Compassionate Care
Beyond surgical precision, our surgeons, and the entire Jamaica Hospital team, provide compassionate, supportive care, understanding the emotional impact of trauma, cancer, and appearance-related concerns.
A Continuum of Healing
Recovery at Jamaica Hospital doesn’t stop at the operating room. Patients receive coordinated support services, including physical therapy, speech and swallow rehabilitation, and long-term scar management. For those who wish, cosmetic refinements can be incorporated later in the healing journey –always respecting the patient’s goals and comfort level.

Meet Our Surgeons

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Marc J. Elkowitz, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Founder of Plastic Surgery of New York
Current Chairman of Plastic Surgery at Jamaica Hospital and Flushing Hospital, New York State hospitals

For more information about plastic and reconstructive surgery at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-6713 to make an appointment.