Breast reconstruction after partial or complete removal of breast(s) can be a very physically and emotionally rewarding procedure for many women. It offers the ability to not only create a new breast, but also can dramatically improve a woman’s self image, self-confidence, and quality of life.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Reconstruction of a breast can be accomplished through many different plastic surgery techniques. Our breast surgeons will recommend the best procedure for your breast reconstruction depending on your goals for reconstruction and your medical history. Overall, the results of breast reconstruction can be relatively natural in appearance and feel; however, a reconstructed breast will never look or feel exactly the same as the breast that was removed.
Breast Reconstruction Options
Breast reconstruction typically involves several procedures performed in multiple stages. It can begin at the same time as mastectomy, which is termed “immediate reconstruction”. This means your initial surgery would be done with a team approach; both the breast surgeon and plastic surgeon would be present for the same surgery. Breast reconstruction can also be delayed until a patient has healed from mastectomy, which is termed “staged immediate”. If your preferred breast surgeon does not work directly with a plastic surgeon, your reconstruction can happen 1-3 weeks after mastectomy.
This requires some coordination, but does not require both surgeons to be present on the same day at the same location. Reconstruction can also be performed after complete recovery after any additional cancer treatments that may be necessary. This is termed delayed reconstruction.
Patients Say
To be able to look in the mirror and feel pretty and have confidence is an amazing feeling. So thank you from the bottom of my heart. You both should be very proud of what you do for us women. You have a gift that you blessed me with and I will be forever grateful. Thank you.
Types Of Breast Reconstruction
Tissue Expander Implant Reconstruction
Latissimus Flap Reconstruction
DIEP/SIEA Free TRAM Reconstruction
Oncoplastic Reconstruction after Lumpectomy
Tissue Expander Implant Reconstruction
The tissue expander implant procedure can be performed in one stage (direct to implant reconstruction) or in two stages (tissue expander first followed by implant). A reconstruction with breast implants following either option has the fewest scars, and is the least invasive of all the reconstruction surgery options.
Latissimus Flap Reconstruction
The latissimus flap reconstruction uses skin and muscle from the patients back which is brought to the reconstructed breast. The flap remains connected to the donor to have the blood supply in intact. Since the back has less fatty tissue than the abdomen, an implant is usually necessary to achieve the patients ideal size.
DIEP/SIEA Free TRAM Reconstruction
The DIEP/SIEA Free TRAM reconstruction is an abdominal based breast reconstruction uses skin, fat, and possibly muscle between the navel and pelvic bone to replace the removed breast. The result is a flatter stomach and a breast mound reconstruction made of your own tissue.
Oncoplastic Reconstruction After Lumpectomy
The oncoplastic reconstruction is performed after a lumpectomy. When a large lumpectomy is required that may leave the breast deformed, reconstruction may be performed in order to restore normal shape. This is done through tissue rearrangement, breast lift, or breast reduction.
3D Nipple Tattoo & Nipple Reconstruction
We offer many options for nipple reconstruction, including 3D nipple tattooing. To make you feel more confident and comfortable with the appearance of your nipples.
Breast Reconstruction Post-Op Instructions
Read about the general guidelines for Post – Op care after Breast Reconstruction here.
Schedule A Consultation
If you are interested in breast reconstruction surgery, contact Northwestern Specialists in Plastic Surgery. Call us at (312) 266-6240 to schedule a consultation. Our practice serves Chicago, IL and surrounding areas.