Surgical breast reconstruction can restore one or both of the breasts to a new size, shape, and appearance because of a mastectomy, lumpectomy, trauma, or birth defect. Advanced options in breast reconstruction surgery make it possible for you to achieve natural-looking breasts, even after removal or damage. This surgery generally involves several procedures, and we can perform them at various stages during your cancer treatment or until a later date.
Breast reconstruction is an extremely customized surgery. Every patient will undergo a thorough consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons to determine the best surgical plan from their concerns, needs, and candidacy. At Forma Plastic Surgery, our plastic surgeons create individualized surgical plans and use the most innovative technology and surgical techniques to help recover the appearance of your breasts.
There are several surgical techniques available to reconstruct the breast. There are also many factors that Dr. Yao looks at when determining the technique that will help you get the best results. Some of these factors include cancer diagnosis, when the reconstruction is performed, whether you will use implants or natural tissue, and whether nipple-sparing or nipple reconstruction is a part of the treatment plan. To recreate the breast, there must be enough tissue to fully cover the breast mound. Flap procedures accomplish this by using your own muscle, fat, and skin to build and cover the breast. The most frequent flap techniques are
Breast reconstruction is a very customized surgery. Every patient will have an in-depth consultation with Dr. Yao to create their surgical plan based on their concerns, needs, and appropriate options. If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, it’s important that you have realistic expectations for results. While Dr. Yao aims to give you a natural appearance, your newly reconstructed breast(s) will not have the same sensations, feel, or look as your original breast(s). You should get clearance from your oncology doctor to have reconstruction surgery and talk to Dr. Yao regarding other factors that could affect healing.
Before choosing the best reconstruction option, our surgeons will need to consider several factors, such as your cancer diagnosis, timing, and breast reconstruction choices.
During your consultation at Forma Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons will meet with you to discuss your specific case and determine your individual candidacy for breast reconstruction. We consider all aspects such as past medical history, current health status, breast cancer status, and your desired result.
We pride ourselves in providing the education you need to make an informed decision about your reconstructive options and work closely with your multi-facet team of doctors to reach an individualized surgical plan.
This breast reconstruction option, also known as immediate implant breast reconstruction, is the process in which a breast implant is placed at the time of a mastectomy in a single stage. Our board-certified plastic surgeon will perform a combination surgery with the breast surgeon and place the breast implant immediately following the mastectomy the breast surgeon performs.
During your mastectomy surgery, our plastic surgeon uses an advanced technology called Spy Elite to assess adequate blood flow in the breast area. By seeing whether or not tissue is adequately perfused while performing a mastectomy and breast reconstruction, surgeons can make critical decisions that can reduce the risk of complications related to poorly perfused tissue. As a result, a tissue expander is placed instead of an implant. After the initial placing of the tissue expander, patients will then have several in-office expansions to gently stretch the skin and prepare it for placement of a breast implant. A second operation is then scheduled to replace the tissue expander and place the implant.
Reconstruction without Breast Implants
A patient receiving a mastectomy may choose not to have breast reconstruction including breast implants. There are several reconstructive options a patient can explore with our board-certified plastic surgeons. During the consultation, our physicians will examine the patient and assess candidacy for non-implant related reconstruction.
What to Expect Post Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is extremely individualized and often a staged process. Patients can expect to have more than one surgery to reach their final breast reconstruction result.
Surgical procedures are performed at surgery centers or hospitals that are accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, American Association for Accreditation of Surgery Facilities and the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. In addition, our board-certified plastic surgeons work alongside board-certified anesthesiologists to effectively perform surgery in a safe, sterile environment using the best surgical team
Post breast reconstruction surgery, you will be given detailed instructions for post-surgical care and will be followed closely by our reconstructive team.
At Forma Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons understand the emotional aspects breast reconstruction encompass. Self-image, confidence, and a sense of wholeness are an integral part of recovery. With the advanced technology, surgical techniques and extensive experience, our physicians are able to restore not only the physical appearance but also empower confidence for our patients.
