Expert Breast Reconstruction Care
Breast reconstruction is a vital component of comprehensive breast cancer treatment, helping restore form and function after mastectomy or lumpectomy. Our board-certified plastic surgeon specializes in advanced breast reconstruction techniques, offering both implant-based and autologous (own tissue) reconstruction options to create natural-looking results.
We understand the emotional and physical journey of breast cancer patients. Our compassionate approach includes detailed consultation, personalized surgical planning, and coordinated care with your oncology team. Whether considering immediate reconstruction at the time of mastectomy or delayed reconstruction after cancer treatment, we provide comprehensive support throughout your recovery journey. Contact us to explore your reconstruction options.
Comprehensive Breast Reconstruction Approach
At our practice, we offer a full spectrum of breast reconstruction options tailored to each patient's unique situation, cancer treatment plan, and personal preferences. Our goal is to restore symmetry, contour, and confidence while ensuring the best possible aesthetic outcome.
- Implant-based reconstruction (saline or silicone)
- Autologous reconstruction using patient's own tissue
- Nipple-areola complex reconstruction
- Symmetry procedures for the opposite breast
- Revision and refinement surgeries as needed
Reconstruction Techniques & Options
We offer various advanced techniques for breast reconstruction, each with specific benefits depending on your body type, cancer treatment, and personal goals.
Implant-Based Reconstruction
- Direct-to-implant single stage
- Two-stage tissue expander followed by implant
- Silicone or saline implant options
- Acellular dermal matrix support
- Implant placement above or below muscle
Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction
- DIEP flap (abdominal tissue)
- TRAM flap (abdominal muscle and tissue)
- Latissimus dorsi flap (back tissue)
- SGAP/IGAP flap (buttock tissue)
- TUG flap (inner thigh tissue)
Timing & Treatment Considerations
Breast reconstruction timing is carefully coordinated with your cancer treatment plan to optimize both oncologic safety and reconstructive outcomes.
Immediate Reconstruction
- Performed during same surgery as mastectomy
- Preserves breast skin and inframammary fold
- Psychological benefit of waking with reconstruction
- Single recovery period
- May not be suitable for all cancer types
Delayed Reconstruction
- Performed after completing cancer treatments
- Allows focus on cancer treatment first
- May be necessary with radiation therapy
- More time for decision-making
- Can address changes from radiation
Benefits of Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction offers significant physical and psychological benefits, contributing to overall recovery and quality of life after breast cancer.
Physical & Practical Benefits
- Restored breast contour and symmetry
- Eliminates need for external prostheses
- Clothing fits normally
- Improved balance and posture
- Permanent solution
Psychological & Emotional Benefits
- Improved self-esteem and body image
- Sense of completion after cancer treatment
- Reduced reminder of cancer experience
- Enhanced quality of life
- Positive impact on intimacy and relationships
Frequently asked questions
Understanding Breast Reconstruction
The timing depends on your cancer treatment plan and personal preferences. Immediate reconstruction (during mastectomy) offers psychological benefits and preserves native breast skin. Delayed reconstruction (after completing cancer treatments) may be recommended if radiation is needed, as radiation can affect reconstruction outcomes. Some patients choose delayed-immediate reconstruction, where a tissue expander is placed at mastectomy and final reconstruction occurs after radiation. We'll help you decide the best timing based on your cancer type, treatment plan, and personal goals.
Implant reconstruction uses silicone or saline implants to create breast mounds, typically involving two stages with tissue expansion. It's less complex surgery with shorter recovery but may require future implant replacements. Flap reconstruction uses your own tissue (usually from abdomen, back, or thighs) to create a more natural-looking and feeling breast. It's more complex surgery with longer recovery but provides permanent, natural results that age with your body. Flap reconstruction also offers the benefit of removing excess tissue from donor areas (like a tummy tuck effect with DIEP flap). We'll discuss which option best suits your body type and goals.
Radiation can significantly impact reconstruction outcomes. It may cause capsular contracture (hardening) around implants, skin changes, and affect blood flow to tissues. For this reason, we often recommend delayed reconstruction if radiation is planned, or use autologous tissue (flap) reconstruction which tends to tolerate radiation better than implants. Sometimes we use a delayed-immediate approach with tissue expanders to preserve skin during radiation. If you've already had radiation, we may recommend autologous reconstruction or specific techniques to address radiation effects. We coordinate closely with your radiation oncologist to optimize your reconstruction plan.
Recovery varies by procedure type. Implant reconstruction typically involves 2-4 weeks of limited activity, with tissue expansion visits over several months. Flap reconstruction requires 4-8 weeks of recovery, with initial hospital stay of 3-5 days. You'll have activity restrictions, particularly with abdominal flaps where you must avoid straining for 6-8 weeks. We provide detailed postoperative instructions, pain management, and close follow-up care. Most women return to light activities within 2-4 weeks and full activities by 6-8 weeks. Final results continue to improve as swelling resolves and scars mature over 6-12 months. We're with you throughout the entire recovery process.