Breast reconstruction is a collection of procedures that are performed to restore one or more breasts to the most normal shape, appearance, symmetry, and size possible. Patients seek a breast reconstruction procedure after they have undergone a mastectomy, a lumpectomy, or were born with congenital deformities.
Breast reconstruction often involves several procedures that are performed in stages and can begin at the time of mastectomy or in a delayed fashion.
We want to make you feel as comfortable as possible and will create an environment of healing, empathy, and respect during all the stages of your breast reconstruction procedure starting with your consultation and ending with your post-operative care.
When is a breast reconstruction recommended?
Breast reconstruction is recommended for women who lost the natural appearance of one or more of their breasts due to a mastectomy or lumpectomy procedure or for women who were born with congenital deformities of the breasts.
Prosthetics allow women to mimic the effect of natural-looking breasts when clothing is worn but many women want to have the effect be permanent and visible at all times. In this case, breast reconstruction is recommended.
Patients should have realistic expectations of what their breast reconstruction journey will accomplish. The surgeons will work to get the best, most-natural looking result that also meets the patient’s goals. However, keep in mind that they are limited by the elasticity of the skin, the condition of the existing tissue, and the amount of tissue they have to work with.
What are the types of breast reconstruction?
There are two main types of breast reconstruction: implant-based reconstruction and flap-based reconstruction. Reconstruction with breast implants uses a saline or silicone implant to form a new breast. Flap or autologous reconstruction takes the patient’s own tissue from another part of their body to form the breast mound. Depending on the current state of the patient’s breasts and the patient’s cosmetic goals, the surgeon will design a treatment plan including one or a combination of both techniques.
Some additional factors to consider when choosing the type of reconstruction:
- The type of breast surgery that was performed
- Previous or current cancer treatments
- Patient’s body type
- Existence of congenital deformities
- If the patient had a lumpectomy and what type it was
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Be certain that you are in the best hands of highly skilled, experienced, and dedicated healthcare providers. Relax and allow us to provide you with the highest level of care from the moment you walk through our doors. If you want to ask any additional questions or have any special requests, do not hesitate to let us know, we are here for you.