What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for breast reconstruction surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.
At Advanced Plastic Surgery Centre, Dr. Joseph M. Perlman and his staff members have seen first-hand how breast reconstruction has changed the lives of thousands of women. For the past 25 years, Dr. Perlman has provided compassionate, quality care to residents of the Houston area, including Spring and The Woodlands.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction patients typically have lost a breast (mastectomy) or a partial breast (lumpectomy) and are looking to restore their chest to a more normal shape, size, and appearance. The procedure can help recapture a woman’s feminine figure while establishing a more even breast line.
Many breast reconstruction patients fit the following profile:
- They are mastectomy patients who are medically appropriate for reconstruction, often at the same time that the breast is removed.
- Women whose cancer, as far as can be determined, seems to have been eliminated by mastectomy.
If you are interested in a breast reconstruction, Dr. Perlman welcomes you to schedule a visit with him to go over your case. He takes special pride in helping women regain their feminine silhouette after breast loss from cancer or other disease. His skills have improved the lives of women throughout Houston, including Spring and The Woodlands, and he looks forward to assisting you, too.
What Is the Process for Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction usually requires general anesthesia or intravenous sedation and can take one to six hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. You can have the operation at the same time as a mastectomy or lumpectomy, or you can have it done later.
Here are some methods that can be used to form a new breast:
- Flap techniques: This breast reconstruction method is used when there is not enough tissue left on the chest wall to cover and support a breast implant. It requires taking muscle, fat, and skin from another part of your body to create or cover the breast mound. There are various flap techniques that use muscle, fat, skin, and tissue, typically from the abdomen or back.
- Tissue expansion: This involves the placement of an expander that stretches healthy skin to create coverage for a breast implant. With the help of an internal valve, the device is slowly filled up over a four- to-six month period.
- Breast implant: A saline- or silicone-filled implant may be an addition or an alternative to flap techniques. Breast reconstruction with an implant alone usually requires tissue expansion.
The final step of breast reconstruction concerns the reconstruction of the nipple and areola. These are created through grafting or other specialized techniques.
Dr. Perlman will explain the different techniques in detail and then guide you toward the breast reconstruction method that would be most appropriate for you. He and the medical team at Advanced Plastic Surgery Centre want you to be as informed as possible so you will be comfortable and satisfied with your decision.
What Does Recovery Entail After Breast Reconstruction?
Once your surgery is completed, you will be required to wear an elastic bandage or support bra for several weeks to reduce swelling and support the reconstructed breast. You will probably feel some discomfort, swelling, bruising, and tenderness after breast reconstruction. But this should begin to wane within a week. Some numbness can be expected in the breast tissue for several months after the reconstruction. The majority of Spring breast reconstruction patients return to work within three to five weeks.
Post-surgery care is important for proper healing, so the staff at Advanced Plastic Surgery Centre will be assisting you along the way. We will schedule a series of follow-up appointments to monitor your progress after your breast reconstruction, and will be available to answer any question you may have.
Can I See Breast Reconstruction Before and After Photos?
If you are considering breast reconstruction, then it is a good idea to see how other residents of the Houston area have benefitted from the procedure. Take some time to examine various breast reconstruction before and after pictures to gain visual insight into the effects of the operation. These images include women from across the region, including Spring, Houston, and The Woodlands.
An ideal starting point would be Dr. Perlman’s collection of breast reconstruction before and after photos. He will be pleased to share them during your initial consultation.
How Much Does Breast Reconstruction Cost?
The cost of breast reconstruction in the Houston area can range widely, depending on whether donor tissue or breast implants are used. However, unlike cosmetic breast implants or breast enlargement procedures, breast reconstruction costs are usually covered by insurance. For more details about pricing and payment, it is best to speak with Dr. Perlman. He and his staff will discuss breast reconstruction prices with you during your scheduled appointment. Please visit our finance page if you would like to know more about payment options.
Recovery and Results
Most women experience some initial discomfort like swelling and bruising right after their breast reconstruction. If a flap reconstruction was used, you may have discomfort in the donor site as well. You’ll notice a change in the appearance of your breasts immediately after surgery. As the healing process continues over the coming weeks and months, your final results will be revealed.
Breast reconstruction from the Advanced Plastic Surgery Centre will help restore a sense of wholeness as we work together toward a beautiful and balanced result.
Learn About Your Breast Reconstruction Tampa Bay Options And Improve Your Quality Of Life
Women who suffer the loss of a breast as the result of breast cancer treatment often endure significant psychological consequences. The may have low self-esteem and not feel like a whole person. Many believe they are no longer physically attractive. Breast reconstruction surgery either immediately following a mastectomy or at a later date can restore confidence and self-worth.
Breast Reconstruction Key Benefits
Brings balance and proportion back to a woman’s body.
After a mastectomy, a woman may feel like her body has lost it proportions and feminine contour. Breast reconstruction can bring that balance back to her appearance, making her feel more comfortable in clothing and bathing suits once again.
Restores a woman’s sense of self-confidence and self-esteem.
The breasts are an important part of a woman’s femininity and their loss can directly impact a woman’s self-confidence and self-esteem. Breast reconstruction gives a woman back what she lost, restoring her self-confidence and helping her to move on after breast cancer.
Provides dramatic and permanent results
Breast reconstruction surgery, whether using synthetic implants or the woman’s own tissue, offers natural results that give a woman confidence in her appearance. These procedures also provide long-lasting, even permanent results for most women, eliminating the need for additional surgery later on.
Request Your Consultation Today with Dr. Perlman
To find out more information about breast reconstruction, please take a moment to contact Advanced Plastic Surgery Centre today. We are pleased to offer breast reconstruction to patients across the Houston region, including Spring, The Woodlands, Atascocita, Conroe, Pasadena, and Baytown. Discover how our compassion, experience, and expertise set us apart from other breast reconstruction surgeons.
