For women who have lost breast tissue as a consequence of surgery or disease, breast reconstruction surgery is a way to help restore their appearance as well as their self-esteem. plastic surgeon Dr. Lisa Bootstaylor at Body Esthetics is a highly experienced expert in breast reconstruction surgery. Our comfortable office provides comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for clients in the metro Atlanta area and surrounding communities in Georgia.
What is Breast Reconstruction surgery?
Reconstruction of a breast that’s been removed due to cancer or another disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come impressively close in form and appearance to a natural breast.
When is the best time to have Breast Reconstruction surgery?
Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.
How is Breast Reconstruction performed?
Most breast reconstruction involves a series of procedures that occur over time. The initial reconstructive operation is usually the most complex. Follow-up surgery may be required to reconstruct the areola, and many surgeons recommend an additional operation to enlarge, reduce, or lift the natural breast to match the reconstructed breast.
Breast Reconstruction may be performed using the DIEP flap method where tissue and skin are taken from the abdomen to help create the breast.
The most common technique in breast reconstruction surgery combines skin expansion and subsequent insertion of an implant. This is performed using a tissue expander. Following a mastectomy, Dr. Bootstaylor will insert tiny valve mechanism that expands under your skin and chest muscle. When the skin has stretched enough, the expander may be removed in a second operation, and another implant will be inserted. Some expanders are left in place as the final implant.
Nipple reconstruction surgery may be performed to complete your breast reconstruction procedure. This can help give you the aesthetic look you desire to feel like yourself again.
Dr. Bootstaylor performs surgical procedures at Emory University Hospital Midtown and Northside Hospita.
What can I expect following Breast Reconstruction?
You’re likely to feel tired and sore for a week or two after reconstruction, but medication can control most discomfort. Depending on the extent of your surgery, you’ll probably be released from the hospital in two to five days or less. Many reconstruction options require a surgical drain to remove excess fluids from surgical sites immediately following the operation, but these are removed within the first week or two after surgery. Most stitches are removed in a week to 10 days. It may take you up to six weeks to recover from a combined mastectomy and reconstruction or from a flap reconstruction alone. Follow your surgeon’s advice on when to begin normal activities. You’ll want to refrain from any overhead lifting, strenuous sports, and sexual activity for three to six weeks following reconstruction.
The team of experts at Body Esthetics is passionately committed to reconstructive procedures to help patients feel and look their best. Using the latest and most advanced procedures for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, our team emphasizes overall health and wellness and serves patients in the metro Atlanta area and surrounding communities in Georgia. Contact us today for a consultation!
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