Restorative Before & After Photos
Procedures are performed in a fully accredited surgical facility certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities Inc. (AAAASF), The State of Arizona, and Medicare.
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is performed to improve the appearance, shape, symmetry, and size of one or both of the breasts following mastectomy, lumpectomy, or congenital deformities. There are several different types of breast reconstruction procedures to choose from. You and your doctor can discuss which type is best for you based on your health and personal preferences. It is important to take the time to educate yourself on the different types of breast reconstruction procedures before making a final decision.
There are generally two categories of breast reconstruction procedures, including flap reconstruction and implant-based reconstruction. Flap reconstruction uses a patient’s own tissue from another area of the body to form a new breast or breasts, while implant reconstruction used breast implants to help form new breasts. There are also different options when it comes to when you would like your breast reconstruction performed following your mastectomy.
PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEONS
Our mission at Tucson Plastic Surgery is to provide you with an unparalleled experience by taking time to listen and understand your individual needs and concerns. We believe creating a custom-tailored plan based on your goals and unique anatomy is essential to achieving your best possible results.
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When breast reconstruction is performed at the same time as your mastectomy, it is known as “immediate reconstruction. When reconstruction is performed at a later time, following your mastectomy, it is referred to as “delayed reconstruction.” There are many factors that can determine which type of reconstruction is best for you, including the stage of your breast cancer, your medical condition, your lifestyle and preference, and any additional therapies that may be needed to treat your breast cancer.
There are both advantages of disadvantages to both immediate and delayed reconstruction, which should be discussed with your doctor before deciding on a procedure. These include:
Advantages include
A decreased risk of social or emotional obstacles, improved cosmetic results, may possibly result in fewer surgeries overall.
Disadvantages include
May be more difficult to detect mastectomy skin issues, longer hospital stay and recovery times, more scarring than just having a mastectomy alone.
Delayed Reconstruction
Advantages include
Any additional cancer therapy that is needed after mastectomy will not cause issues at the reconstruction site; patients have more time to consider their breast reconstruction options.
Disadvantages include
There will be a mastectomy scar on the chest way, additional surgery and recovery time are needed, cosmetic results may be less optimal.
I had a bi-lateral mastectomy in 2014 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer for the third time. I was never pleased with my original reconstruction and it was just chance that I saw an Instagram post about Dr. Kurtovic which mentioned her reconstruction specialty. I made an appointment and was seen immediately. Dr. Kurtovic is very professional and personable. She listened to my experience and assured me she could improve my appearance. There are not enough words in the English language to express my gratitude to Dr. Kurtovic. I look like a woman again. I feel like a woman again. Physical appearance is not everything, but let me tell you, what Dr. Kurtovic did for me is nothing short of a miracle. I now have breasts that are the same size and can wear pretty lingerie with confidence. I will be forever grateful”
Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Individuals who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, or are at a very high risk of developing breast cancer in the future, often undergo a mastectomy or a procedure in which one or both of the breasts are surgically removed. Following a mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an option to help rebuild your breast or breasts to improve your self-confidence or your sense of being “whole” again. The best way to determine if breast reconstruction is a good option for you is to discuss it with your doctor. There are many factors that can determine whether this procedure is right for you, including your health, your personal preferences, your lifestyle, and more.
Breast Reconstruction FAQs
What is breast reconstruction surgery?
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring your breast after mastectomy surgery for cancer or cancer prevention. Breast reconstruction can involve breast implants or it can use your own natural tissue.
Can I Have Surgery to Create a New Breast After My Mastectomy?
Most women are candidates for some form of breast reconstruction. Our goal as plastic surgeons is to recreate a breast mound that is similar to your native breast. There are multiple ways to do so, but the overall goal is for you to have as natural a breast as possible and be balanced and symmetric in your clothing. Breast reconstruction is for three different categories of women
1. Those having removal of their breast due to cancer (mastectomy)
2. Those having removal of a portion of their breast for cancer (lumpectomy or
partial mastectomy)
3. Those having removal of their breasts for preventive purposes (prophylactic
mastectomy) usually due to a genetic mutation making them at higher risk for
breast cancer (BRCA 1 and BRCA 2) reconstruction of your breast can often be done at the time of mastectomy, but other times reconstruction may have to be performed at a later time because of the need for other therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy or due to patient preference.
1. Those having removal of their breast due to cancer (mastectomy)
2. Those having removal of a portion of their breast for cancer (lumpectomy or
partial mastectomy)
3. Those having removal of their breasts for preventive purposes (prophylactic
mastectomy) usually due to a genetic mutation making them at higher risk for
breast cancer (BRCA 1 and BRCA 2) reconstruction of your breast can often be done at the time of mastectomy, but other times reconstruction may have to be performed at a later time because of the need for other therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy or due to patient preference.
Do I Have to Have Breast Reconstruction?
No. The reasons to have or not have reconstruction are different for every patient. Some women choose not to have additional surgery. For these women, there are options for prostheses to wear in a bra to provide the appearance of a breast. Other women need additional therapy that may prevent them from having reconstruction, while some women are unable to decide what type of reconstruction to have.
What Are the Different Choices for Breast Reconstruction and Which Choice Will
Look Most Like a Natural Breast?
First, our goal for your breast reconstruction is to be symmetric in clothing (with your bra on). You will always have some form of scar on your breast (possibly more than one) and scars elsewhere on your body, depending on the choice for reconstruction. The process of reconstruction usually takes six months to a year to complete. The first surgery is usually the longest and most difficult. The second surgery, usually about three months after the first, is to improve breast symmetry. The last steps in breast reconstruction are the creation of a nipple and the areola if you choose. Both of these procedures are done later and usually in the clinic about six months and nine months, respectively, after your first surgery. In most cases, your reconstructed breasts will have some pressure sensation eventually, but there may be areas of permanent numbness; erogenous sensation of the nipples cannot be restored. There are factors that determine which type of reconstruction is best for you.
• Type and stage of cancer
• body size and shape
• goals for reconstruction
• need for additional therapy
• current health status
• prior surgeries
There are three options for breast reconstruction:
• Implants
• Your own tissue
• Combination of implants and your own tissue
Can I sleep on my side after breast reconstruction?
It is advised that patients avoid sleeping on their side or stomach immediately after breast reconstruction. These positions can put unneeded pressure on the healing tissue reconstruction.
Can you have reconstruction after breast radiation?
Yes, breast reconstruction can be performed after radiation therapy.
Do I need to wear a bra after breast reconstruction?
Following breast reconstruction, your surgeon may want you to wear a support bra during recovery. The purpose of the bra is to give support to the healing tissue and minimize movement around the reconstruction site.
Does breast reconstruction look natural?
Breast reconstruction techniques have evolved significantly over the past several decades, and depending on the technique used, can create a very natural type of reconstruction. To ensure the most natural result, we recommend you find a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is trained in natural tissue breast reconstruction such as DIEP flap breast reconstruction.
How long after breast reconstruction can I exercise?
Most patients can return to modified and light types of exercise about 6-8 weeks after surgery. However, be sure to check with your surgeon regarding when you can return to unrestricted activities.
How long does a mastectomy scar take to heal?
Scars take 1 year to fully mature. After surgery, the incisions will healed and turn into a soft scar within a few weeks, however, it takes a 3-4 months before scars become stronger.
How long does DIEP flap surgery take?
DIEP flap breast reconstruction typically takes 4-6 hours to complete. However, it may take longer if performed along with a mastectomy.
How long does it take to recover from reconstructive breast surgery?
Most women can return to regular activities 6-8 weeks after their reconstructive breast procedure. However, recovery time may vary from patient to patient.
Is a mastectomy considered major surgery?
Mastectomy surgery is considered major surgery. It is performed under general anesthesia and may need require a hospital night stay
Is breast reconstruction surgery inpatient or outpatient?
Breast reconstruction surgery can be inpatient or outpatient, depending on the extent of the procedure.
Is it OK to wear a sports bra after breast reduction?
Your surgeon will instruct you on when it is OK to resume wearing a bra after surgery.
Is there an alternative to breast implants?
Breast reconstruction surgery can be achieved using breast implants or the patients own tissue. The option that is best for you can be discussed during your consultation.
What is the difference between Diep and TRAM flap?
TRAM flap involves taking skin, fat and rectus muscle tissue to rebuild the breast, while a DIEP flap involves taking only the skin and fat with the blood vessels, sparing the abdominal wall muscle.
What kind of bra should I wear after breast surgery?
Your surgeon will instruct you on when it is OK to wear a bra after surgery, and which kind of bra is best.
What should I wear after breast reconstruction?
Following breast reconstruction, wear soft, baggy clothing to ensure that you are comfortable and not restricting the treatment area.
What should I wear after breast surgery?
After breast surgery, we advise wearing soft and loose-fitting clothing.
When can I wear a bra after a mastectomy?
Your doctor will let you know when they think it is best for you to wear a bra after your mastectomy.
How do you shower after breast reduction surgery?
You shouldnt shower for the first 48 hours after surgery. After that, you can take a full shower or at least shower from the waist down. Dont aim the shower spray directly at your breasts.
If you would like to learn more about breast reconstruction following mastectomy, contact Tucson Plastic Surgery today to schedule your initial consultation appointment. We will be happy to answer any questions that you may have so you are comfortable with your breast reconstruction decision.
