The time following a mastectomy can be incredibly emotional as you may be celebrating your health and simultaneously mourning permanent changes to your body caused by treatment. Many women choose to undergo post-mastectomy breast reconstruction to restore their feminine curves and regain control over their life. Breast reconstruction offers a sense of healing and regained confidence to women whose lives have been drastically affected by breast cancer and treatment. The highly experienced board-certified Houston plastic surgeons at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery offer the expertise to provide breast reconstruction patients with exceptional care and the most natural-looking results.
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape and appearance of a woman’s breasts following a mastectomy or other surgery. This procedure can help with physical and psychological benefits, such as providing a sense of security, restoring the natural shape and contour of the breast, improving self-image and self-confidence, restoring symmetry with the other breast (if needed), and allowing women to wear clothing of their choice.
Flap reconstruction is the most common type of breast reconstruction procedure. It involves using tissue from other body parts, such as the abdomen, buttocks, or back to reconstruct the breast. This procedure offers the patient many physical and psychological benefits, including a natural-looking breast shape and size, improved anatomy, and enhanced self-image.
You can restore the look and feel of breasts after mastectomy or other procedures with breast implants. This procedure can give you a more natural look and feel and improve the symmetry of your breasts.
Nipple reconstruction restores the nipples following a mastectomy or other breast surgery. This procedure can help improve the look and feel of your breasts as well as restore sensation in the nipples.
3D Areola Tattoo Restoration and Pigmentation is an advanced non-surgical technique that creates a realistic appearance of a natural nipple and areola to improve the aesthetic appearance. It has been an important restorative cosmetic procedure for many breast cancer patients, as well as an ideal option for those individuals who may not be pleased with the size, shape, or color of their areola's natural appearance.
Women opt for breast reconstruction for many reasons. However, one thing the majority have in common is self-confidence. Not having any confidence in yourself can deplete your quality of life. Here are some of the benefits breast reconstruction can provide:
The Clinic for Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX, can help determine if breast reconstruction is right for you. Some of the common concerns that can be addressed with this procedure include the following:
You may be a good candidate if you meet the criteria above and don’t have any medical conditions that contraindicate breast reconstruction. A consultation will help ensure the best outcome for your individual needs.
During the initial consultation at our clinic in Houston, TX, we will discuss your individual goals for breast reconstruction and provide you with a complete evaluation of the procedure. We will also explain the types of reconstruction options available and discuss your medical history to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. In preparation for the breast reconstruction, you may need to have specific tests done and obtain medical clearance from your primary care physician. You should also discuss your medications with your physician to ensure they don’t interfere with the surgery. Finally, you should stop smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks before the procedure.
The size and type of implant used depend on various factors, including the patient’s anatomy, desired results, and lifestyle. During your consultation, our team will discuss available options and help you select the right implant size to achieve your desired results.
We offer various implants to suit the needs of our patients. These include saline and silicone implants. The type of implant used will depend on the desired outcome.
Smooth implants are the most popular type of implant and create a natural-looking appearance. On the other hand, textured implants have a rougher surface and are less likely to move around inside the breast.
Teardrop implants mimic the natural shape of a woman’s breast, while round implants provide more fullness. Teardrop implants are generally chosen for women who desire a more natural look, while round implants are preferred for those who desire a fuller appearance.
High-profile implants are the fullest, offering a rounder and fuller appearance. Moderate-profile implants provide a natural look that is slightly less full than high-profile implants. Low-profile implants are the most petite and offer a more subtle result.
The type of incision used for breast reconstruction depends on the size and shape of the implant, as well as the patient’s anatomy.
The transaxillary incision is made in the armpit, so there won’t be any visible scars on the breast. During this procedure, the implant is inserted through a tiny incision in the armpit and placed into a pocket created by the surgeon. This method is ideal for those who want minimal scarring.
The inframammary incision is made in the fold beneath the breast, and it’s one of the most popular methods used in breast reconstruction. This technique minimizes scarring on the breast and allows for greater precision in implant placement.
The areolar incision is made along the edge of the areola, the dark area around the nipple. This method provides less scarring than other incisions and a more natural, aesthetically pleasing result. It also allows for greater accuracy when placing the implant.
Trans-umbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) is a unique approach to breast augmentation. TUBA involves an incision made around the navel and does not leave any visible scarring on the breast. This method offers precise placement of the implant for a more natural-looking result. This technique avoids any scarring on the breasts, making it a popular choice for those who want minimal scarring and a more aesthetically pleasing result.
Before the surgery, our medical team will assess your anatomy and discuss your desired outcome to determine the best implant for you. During the procedure, you will be given an anesthetic to ensure your comfort. The implant is then placed in a pocket created by the surgeon, and the incision is closed with sutures or tissue glue. The entire procedure usually takes one to several hours, depending on the type of implant and the anatomy.
After the procedure, you will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. The incisions may be sore or tender for a few days after the surgery, and you should avoid strenuous activities for at least a week. You may need to wear a compression garment for the first few weeks to help reduce swelling.
The results of breast reconstruction are generally visible immediately after the procedure and will become more prominent as the swelling and bruising subside. Most patients will require regular follow-up appointments to monitor the results of their procedure. It is essential to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely to ensure the best possible results. You should also avoid smoking, heavy lifting, and exercising for several weeks after surgery to allow for optimal healing. It’s beneficial to wear a supportive bra and use sunscreen when outdoors to protect your incisions from the sun.
Dr. Sam Sukkar is a much-admired, board-certified Houston plastic surgeon whose ground-breaking procedures have earned him the unwavering trust of the Houston community. At The Clinic for Plastic Surgery, we understand breast reconstruction is a profoundly personal decision. That’s why Dr. Sukkar and our highly trained medical professionals strive to provide the highest level of care and attention.
Achieve the look you desire with Houston breast reconstruction from The Clinic for Plastic Surgery. To learn more, contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Sam Sukkar and discuss your options for breast reconstruction. We look forward to helping you achieve your desired look with our state-of-the-art treatments.
Yes, breast reconstruction is often done with a mastectomy to restore the shape and appearance of the breasts. Breast reconstruction can be done at the same time as a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction), or it can be done later, separately (delayed reconstruction).
Breast reconstruction surgery is generally safe, but there are potential risks associated with any surgical procedure, such as infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to the anesthesia.
Yes, you will need to arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure and help assist for the first few days.
There will be some scarring associated with a breast reconstruction procedure. However, our highly-skilled surgeons take great care to minimize the amount of scarring and ensure the best possible results.
You will likely need to sleep on your back in a reclining position for the first few days after your procedure to ensure your breasts remain in the correct position.
The best age for a breast reconstruction depends on the individual patient and the specific goals they wish to achieve.
Yes, breast reconstruction is a permanent solution for restoring the shape and appearance of the breasts. However, the procedure results may change due to aging and poor lifestyle choices.
The cost of a breast reconstruction procedure will vary depending on the patient’s unique needs and goals.
Insurance usually doesn’t cover the cost of breast reconstruction. Check with your insurance provider, or ask about our financing options, to find out what you can do to get the breast reconstruction you want.
The Clinic for Plastic Surgery loves to be a part of our patients’ journeys. That starts with a consultation. No matter which path you choose, you will feel more knowledgeable and confident about your decision after a meeting with our board-certified Houston plastic surgeons. Schedule a consultation today.
