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Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Krishna Kumar K S, Senior Consultant & Chief, Plastic, Aesthetic And Reconstructive Surgery, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode

Skin grafting is a surgical procedure used to cover areas of the body where the skin has been lost due to burns, injuries, infections, ulcers, or surgeries. It involves taking healthy skin from one part of the body (the donor site) and transplanting it to the affected area to promote healing, restore appearance, and protect underlying tissues.

What is skin grafting?

Skin grafting is a reconstructive surgery where a piece of healthy skin is removed from one area of the body and placed on a damaged or missing area to help it heal. It helps close wounds that cannot heal on their own.

When is skin grafting needed?

It is recommended in cases such as:

  • Severe burns
  • Traumatic injuries with skin loss
  • Chronic non-healing wounds (e.g., diabetic ulcers, pressure sores)
  • Infections like necrotizing fasciitis
  • Post-tumor removal or reconstructive surgeries
What are the types of skin grafts?
  • Split-thickness skin graft (STSG): Includes only the top layers of the skin; used for larger wounds.
  • Full-thickness skin graft (FTSG): Includes all skin layers; used for smaller areas that need better cosmetic results.
  • Composite grafts: Include skin and other tissues like cartilage; used in special cases (e.g., facial reconstruction).
Is skin grafting painful?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so it is not painful during surgery. Mild discomfort at the donor or graft site may occur afterward and is managed with medications.

How is skin grafting performed?
  • The wound is cleaned and prepared for grafting.
  • Healthy skin is harvested from a donor site (usually the thigh or buttock).
  • The skin graft is placed over the wound and secured with stitches or staples.
  • A sterile dressing is applied to promote healing and prevent infection.
How long does it take to heal after skin grafting?
  • Initial healing: 1–2 weeks for the graft to attach
  • Full healing: 3–4 weeks for complete recovery
  • The donor site also heals within 2–3 weeks. Proper care is essential to ensure graft success.
What are the risks or complications of skin grafting?

Skin grafting is safe, but potential risks include:

  • Partial or complete graft loss (if blood supply is poor)
  • Infection or fluid collection
  • Color mismatch or scarring
  • Delayed healing (especially in diabetic or smoker patients)
What is recovery like after skin grafting?
  • Keep the graft area clean and dry for the first few days.
  • Avoid movement or pressure on the grafted area.
  • Follow-up visits to monitor graft healing.
  • Moisturizing, scar care, and physiotherapy (if needed) help optimize results.
What are the benefits of skin grafting?
  • Promotes faster wound healing
  • Restores skin function and protection
  • Improves cosmetic appearance
  • Reduces infection risk and hospital stay
Connect with Our Experts Today

If you or a loved one is recovering from burns, injuries, or chronic wounds, the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) provides advanced skin grafting procedures, using modern techniques for faster healing, improved comfort, and better aesthetic outcomes.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our reconstructive surgery specialists.

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