What is breast reconstruction surgery? Sometimes cancer requires that breast tissue be removed. For patients in Houston breast reconstruction may be an option to restore the chest. After healing from a cancer operation, a woman has an option at any point after that to decide to undergo breast reconstruction surgery. Breast reconstruction may begin immediately following a mastectomy or lumpectomy or can be done months to years later, with the goal of recreating the breast mound and restores it to your desired size and shape. In breast reconstruction, there are three categories: are implants, tissue-based reconstruction, and a combination both of implants and tissue.
How does Heights Plastic Surgery perform a breast reconstruction with implants? There are a variety of breast implant options to choose from and even different types of breast implant surgery. During one-stage immediate breast reconstruction, the implant is placed into the chest at the same time as the mastectomy is performed. However, two-stage reconstruction is commonly performed because it allows the breast skin to recover properly after a mastectomy and gives a better overall result. During this time, an expander will be placed under the skin and, in some cases, under the chest muscle. This expander will be gradually filled with a saline solution for about one to three months, giving your skin time to acclimate itself to the stretch in your breast area. During the second stage of this process, the expander will be removed, and a permanent implant will take its place. If radiation is needed, a delayed reconstruction may be an option. There may be temporary placement of a tissue expander, following by expansion and radiation. Six months following radiation, a tissue based option will be used to replace the expander, as implant reconstruction in the face of radiation is not a long term ideal option.
What is tissue-based breast reconstruction? In this option, tissue from other areas of your body such as your stomach, back, thighs, or buttocks is used to reconstruct the breasts. Dr. Cara Downey and Dr. Bullocks are well-versed in DIEP flap surgeries (deep inferior epigastric perforator artery), which utilize tissue from the tummy and moves it to your chest. Because the tissue in tissue-based breast reconstruction acts as it would in any other part of the body, your flap procedure allows for the enlargement or shrinking of your breasts as you gain or lose weight. Replacements or ruptures aren’t a concern in this process, either. These procedures are offered as an option for women who do not have blood clotting disorders or those who do smoke, as it provides a natural look and feel to the breasts. When considering a DIEP flap breast reconstruction surgery, it is important to keep in mind that tissue from your belly for breast reconstruction can only be taken once. Undergoing the DIEP flap procedure will allow your stomach to lose some of its fat and excess skin, but will also leave a scar. Your chances of developing hernias are also minimized after a DIEP flap because your stomach muscles are no longer in use.
Am I a good candidate for breast reconstruction surgery? Good candidates for breast reconstruction have had a mastectomy or are planning on having a mastectomy, and desire restoration of their breasts. Ideal candidates for DIEP flap breast reconstruction surgery have extra belly fat in the lower abdomen. Most prior abdominal surgeries may not exclude you from DIEP flap surgery, but we encourage you to mention these to Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks ahead of time.
How much does a breast reconstruction surgery cost in Houston? The total cost for your breast reconstruction will depend on factors such as your insurance deductible, presence of out-of-network benefits, coinsurance, and other miscellaneous medical expenses. Breast reconstruction is often covered by all insurance plans.
What should I expect during recovery after breast reconstruction? Following your DIEP flap breast reconstruction, you may need to stay in a surgical facility for an average of three to five days. Luckily, you’ll be able to consume food the next day and will start moving around with assistance. Your DIEP flap surgeon, Dr. Cara Downey or Dr. Bullocks, will advise you against doing any heavy lifting or high-intensity activities for up to 8 weeks following your breast reconstruction surgery. Soreness, swelling, and bruising are to be expected for about two to four weeks following your breast reconstruction. Dr. Downey will provide you with a detailed list of post-operative care instructions prior to your procedure so you can prepare for your breast reconstruction recovery in advance.
