Breast Reconstruction

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Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure designed to restore the shape, symmetry, and appearance of the breasts following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. For many women, breast reconstruction is a vital step in the healing process, helping to restore confidence and a sense of wholeness after breast cancer treatment.

Whether performed immediately after a mastectomy or delayed until after cancer treatment is complete, breast reconstruction is a highly personal decision. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring a result that aligns with your goals and comfort.

Breast reconstruction is an option for women who:
✔ Have undergone or will undergo a mastectomy or lumpectomy
✔ Are in remission or cleared by their oncologist for surgery
✔ Want to restore breast shape and symmetry
✔ Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
✔ May require reconstruction due to breast deformities or asymmetry after cancer treatment

During your consultation, we will discuss your medical history, treatment plan, and desired outcome to create a personalized reconstruction approach that best fits your body and lifestyle.

Breast reconstruction can be performed using implants, natural tissue from your body, or a combination of both. The right option depends on your anatomy, medical history, and personal preferences.

A common method that restores breast shape using saline or silicone implants.

• May require tissue expanders to gradually stretch the skin before placing permanent implants.
• Offers a shorter recovery time compared to tissue-based reconstruction.
• Can be performed immediately after a mastectomy or delayed until after treatment.

Uses natural tissue from another area of your body (such as the abdomen, back, or thighs) to create a soft, natural breast shape. Common techniques include:

• DIEP Flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap) – Uses skin and fat from the lower abdomen without sacrificing muscle, allowing for a natural-looking result.
• TRAM Flap (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muscle Flap) – Utilizes muscle, fat, and skin from the lower abdomen to rebuild the breast.
• Latissimus Dorsi Flap – Transfers tissue from the back to the chest, often combined with an implant for added volume.

Combines both an implant and a tissue flap to achieve the most natural look and feel while ensuring long-term durability.

For women who have lost the nipple during mastectomy, reconstruction can be performed using surgical techniques or 3D tattooing to restore a natural appearance.

Breast reconstruction can be performed in one or multiple stages depending on the chosen technique and individual healing.

• Immediate Reconstruction – Performed at the same time as a mastectomy, allowing patients to wake up with a newly reconstructed breast.
• Delayed Reconstruction – Performed months or even years after mastectomy, often for patients who need to complete cancer treatments first.

The recovery process varies depending on the type of reconstruction:

• Implant-based reconstruction: 2-4 weeks for initial healing
• Flap reconstruction: 4-6 weeks due to tissue transfer
• Swelling and bruising improve over several weeks
• Full results typically visible within 3-6 months

Our team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

Under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), health insurance providers are required to cover breast reconstruction after mastectomy, including procedures for symmetry. Our team can assist with the insurance process and answer any financial concerns.