Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a physically and emotionally rewarding procedure that can dramatically improve your self-image, self-confidence and quality of life when you have lost a breast (or breasts) due to cancer or other diseases. Our doctors specialize in some of the most complicated breast surgeries, and we not only want to provide you with the best possible results, but also a procedure that is safest for you and your recovery.
 

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is achieved through several reconstructive plastic surgery techniques that can restore a breast to a near-normal shape, appearance and size following a mastectomy. Some of the techniques may include:

• Flap techniques that reposition a woman’s own muscle, fat and skin to create or cover the breast mound
• Tissue expansion that stretches healthy skin to provide coverage for a breast implant
• Surgical placement of a breast implant to create a breast mound
• Grafting and other specialized techniques to create a nipple and areola

Reconstruction is often possible in conjunction with the breast removal, or breast mastectomy, so a breast mound is already in place when you wake up. Where only one breast is affected, it alone may be reconstructed. In addition, a breast lift, breast reduction or breast augmentation may be recommended for the opposite breast to improve symmetry in the size and position of both your breasts.
 

My Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction is a highly individualized procedure. In your consultation, your doctor will explain all of your options, including techniques that offer different advantages to help you choose the appropriate course of treatment. Once you and your doctor have discussed your desires and have established realistic goals, a tailored plan is created – based on you, your anatomy, and your doctor’s recommendations – for the most satisfying results.

The procedure is completed through techniques that reconstruct the nipple and areola. Your breast reconstruction may be performed at one time or over an extended period, depending on the techniques used, breast cancer treatment and the pace at which you wish to achieve your results. Complete reconstruction generally occurs in multiple procedures over several months.

While breast reconstruction can effectively rebuild your breast, results vary as each individual is unique. Even though a reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation, feel like the breast it replaced and incision lines will always be visible, the procedure can result in a better quality of life and a feeling of wholeness again.
 

Recovery

Because breast reconstruction is a complicated procedure that sometimes involves multiple steps, your recovery will be a process. Initial healing from breast reconstruction will include swelling and discomfort at the donor site for flap techniques, with the swelling going down and your breast shape refining over several weeks. It may take you up to six weeks to recover from a combined mastectomy and reconstruction or from a flap reconstruction alone. If implants are used without flaps and reconstruction is done apart from the mastectomy, your recovery time may be less.

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions to heal properly and ensure the most desirable results. It is crucial to take time for yourself and rest. Remember, you are doing this for you.