Plastic surgery: a component in the comprehensive care of cancer patients.

Plastic surgery represents a small but critical component of the comprehensive care of cancer patients. Its primary role in the treatment of cancer patients is to extend the ability of other surgeons and specialists to more radically treat cancer, offering patients the best opportunity for cure. Although the most convincing data for improved psychosocial well-being through plastic surgery is in the setting of breast cancer reconstruction after mastectomy, it is reasonable to assume that all patients who undergo major reconstruction to minimize deformity due to cancer therapy feel some improvement in quality of life. This article will provide an overview of the role of plastic surgery in cancer treatment.