Breast Reconstuction
Reconstruction Mammoplasty
Most women undergoing Mastectomy for Breast Cancer ultimately decide to proceed with Breast Reconstruction Surgery to restore the breast shape and volume that has been lost due to the Mastectomy procedure. Breast Reconstruction Surgery can either be performed immediately at the time of Mastectomy, or in a delayed fashion, once the mastectomy has completely healed and adjuvant treatment (chemotherapy and radiation) has been completed.
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The most common procedure used today is the Tissue Expander/Implant Reconstruction. With this method, a Tissue Expander is placed at the time of Mastectomy. This expander is slowly enlarged with saline injections in the office until the desired size and shape are achieved. Once a final volume has been reached, the expander is left in place for another 8 to 12 weeks to allow for adequate relaxation of the expanded skin. The expander is then removed and replaced with a permanent implant.
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Autologous Reconstructions can also be performed using excess abdominal tissues (TRAM Flap). This procedure is often used in patients in whom Radiation Therapy is going to be used as a necessary adjuvant treatment.
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Latissimus Reconstruction can be performed using tissue from the upper back. This procedure is often used in patients in whom Radiation Therapy is going to be used as a necessary adjuvant treatment.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
Surgery & Recovery
The decision to proceed with Breast Reconstruction, along with the type of reconstruction to be utilized, must be a collaborative effort between the Patient, her Breast Surgeon, her Reconstructive Surgeon, and her Oncologist. Operative times can vary anywhere between one hour and four hours. Similarly, hospitalization times can vary anywhere between one to four days. More specific details can be provided at the time of consultation.