BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
At Associates in Plastic Surgery we have a strong interest in and long experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy. We performed the first tram flap reconstruction in this area. We have the expertise to offer the entire range of procedures designed to reconstruct the female breast.
Breast reconstruction is now an option for all women and many options exist. Legislation mandates insurance companies to cover breast reconstruction. Reconstruction can be carried out at the time of mastectomy or lumpectomy (a breast conserving technique) or after the surgery and all adjuvant treatments (radiation or chemotherapy, if needed) are completed. Choice also exists as to the type of reconstruction. Whether an implant or a patient's own tissue (autogenous) is used, the type of reconstruction is an independent decision. Reconstruction can be limited to the production of a breast mound alone or extended to include a nipple reconstruction or alteration of the other breast to provide symmetry. Breast reconstruction often requires two procedures, the first to create the breast mound and to gain symmetry. The second procedure, a revision and a nipple reconstruction, is done after a short healing period (generally three to six months).
