Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy

Reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy is a procedure that reshapes the breasts to restore their appearance.

Mastectomy surgery is an essential and often life-saving procedure for many women. However, the procedure can leave patients feeling dissatisfied with their appearance. Fortunately, multiple treatment options are available to rejuvenate the breasts after surgery.

Dr. David L. Abramson is a world-class plastic surgeon. He and his team have developed a reputation as some of the finest in all of New Jersey, New York, and the surrounding areas when it comes to reconstructive surgeries. New Jersey Monthly named Dr. Abramson a ‘Top 5 Breast Implant Reconstructive Surgeon’ in 2024.

Contact Dr. Abramson and his staff or call one of our four locations to schedule a personal consultation:

About Reconstructive Surgery Following a Mastectomy

Breast reconstruction can restore the breast’s natural shape and definition after a mastectomy. Dr. Abramson can achieve this through implant-based reconstruction, autologous tissue reconstruction, or a combination of both techniques. This procedure is highly customizable based on a patient’s individual needs, medical history, and aesthetic goals.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Implant-based Reconstruction

Implant-based reconstruction involves the placement of saline or silicone implants to add structure to the breast mound. This method typically requires two stages. The first stage is the placement of a breast tissue expander, which gradually stretches the skin over 6-8 weeks. The second stage is a separate procedure for the insertion of the implant.

Autologous Tissue Reconstruction

For patients seeking a more natural option, autologous tissue reconstruction uses the patient’s tissue, often a “flap” from the abdomen or back, to reconstruct the breast. This technique results in a natural look, although it may involve a more complex surgical process. In some cases, combining both methods yields optimal results tailored to the patient’s desires. ⁽¹⁾

DIEP Flap Reconstruction

Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction is a form of autologous tissue reconstruction that primarily involves utilizing skin and fat from a patient’s lower abdomen to create a flap while still keeping the abdominal muscles intact.

Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction

Oncoplastic reconstruction surgery combines cancer removal surgery with cosmetic procedure techniques to preserve or restore breast shape following a mastectomy. This type of procedure is considered a form of partial breast reconstruction and can not only potentially provide patients with an effective cancer treatment, but it does so while helping them maintain a natural breast appearance.

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

Reconstructive breast surgery can offer numerous aesthetic and emotional benefits to patients. Some of the benefits often reported by patients who seek this procedure might include, but are not limited to, the following:

In addition to the aesthetic benefits that breast reconstruction offers, this procedure can profoundly impact a patient’s sense of well-being. Restoring the breast’s shape and appearance after surgery helps many patients regain self-confidence, which, for many people, enhances their quality of life. Research shows that women who undergo reconstruction after mastectomy experience significant improvements in body image and mental well-being. ⁽²⁾

To learn more about the benefits of breast reconstruction, contact Dr. Abramson and his staff at one of our four locations to schedule a personal consultation:

Ideal Candidates

Whether or not you are a good candidate for breast reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy will depend on several variables. Patients who have undergone a mastectomy are generally candidates for breast reconstruction. However, the patient’s overall health, the type of mastectomy performed, and what the patient hopes to achieve with this procedure will all play a role in a patient’s eligibility for procedures. Generally speaking, candidates are people in overall good health, are non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the results they can achieve with this procedure. Many women who undergo breast reconstruction are breast cancer survivors. However, people who are at risk of developing breast cancer may undergo a mastectomy as a preventative measure.

Personal Consultation

If you have had a mastectomy and are looking to restore the shape and size of your breasts, the initial step in the reconstructive journey is to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Abramson. This consultation allows Dr. Abramson to understand your goals and examine your medical history and your current physical condition. Dr. Abramson will walk you through the available treatment options, explaining the benefits and potential risks of each reconstructive approach. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and share their concerns to ensure they feel comfortable and informed about their decisions.

After gathering all the necessary information, Dr. Abramson develops a personalized treatment plan detailing the recommended procedure, preparation steps, and recovery timeline. The consultation and subsequent procedure processes are ultimately meant to be collaborative, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Preparation

Dr. Abramson’s team provides patients with detailed instructions on how to prepare for surgery. The preparation process will look different for every patient, depending on the details of their procedure. You may be asked to undergo a series of medical evaluations to assess your current health status and ensure you are fit for this type of procedure. Dr. Abramson might also advise you to avoid the usage of certain medications and supplements that thin the blood, as these could potentially complicate the procedure and healing processes. Patients should refrain from smoking or the usage of nicotine as far in advance of the procedure as possible. Patients are advised to arrange transportation home following the procedure.

Procedure

The specifics of breast reconstruction procedures will differ for each patient and depend largely on the chosen technique. Implant-based reconstruction often begins with the placement of a tissue expander, which gradually stretches the breast tissue to make room for the implant. About 6-8 weeks after Dr. Abramson places the breast tissue expanders, he will place the implants in a separate appointment.

Autologous reconstruction, on the other hand, involves the removal of tissue from a donor site, such as the abdomen, back, or thighs. This tissue is carefully repositioned to the chest, where it is shaped to create a natural-looking breast mound. While this method requires more time and technical precision, it offers highly realistic results. Dr. Abramson’s expertise in this type of breast reconstruction and precise attention to detail ensures optimal outcomes for patients undergoing this intricate procedure.

Recovery

Recovery from breast reconstruction will look different for each patient depending on the method used and the patient’s overall health. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are to be expected following the procedure but will eventually subside during the healing process. Dr. Abramson will be sure to provide you with a list of any necessary postoperative instructions for you to follow. This will likely include guidelines for when it is appropriate to return to everyday activities as well as when to schedule follow-up appointments so Dr. Abramson can monitor your progress.

Most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, although it is likely you will need to refrain from strenuous activities for a longer period until otherwise advised by Dr. Abramson. While some scarring is inevitable, visual evidence of scarring will ultimately heal over time. Dr. Abramson and his staff will be available to guide you and answer any questions you might have throughout the recovery process, ensuring you feel confident and cared for every step of the way. Given that this is a surgical procedure, it is important to be patient and understand that recovery might be a gradual process.

Results

The results of breast reconstruction can be life-changing, both physically and emotionally. Patients often report a renewed sense of self and satisfaction with their appearance. While no surgery can completely restore the original breast, Dr. Abramson is a skilled surgeon who is dedicated to his craft, meaning he and his staff are confident they can help you achieve your desired aesthetic. Patients can expect to see some results immediately, such as improvements in the definition and shape of their breasts. The majority of results, however, will be noticed in the weeks following as the healing process takes place.

It is important to note that reconstruction can be a multiple-step process for some patients, and additional procedures might be required to achieve your desired outcome. Your progress, results, and whether or not additional procedures are necessary will be assessed by Dr. Abramson during follow-up appointments. Dr. Abramson and his staff have developed a reputation for producing stunning results for their patients. To hear from some of the many happy patients who have sought treatment from Dr. Abramson and his staff, check out our reviews page.

Cost of Breast Reconstruction in New Jersey and New York

The cost of breast reconstruction varies depending on the technique used and any additional procedures required. Dr. Abramson’s office works closely with patients to navigate insurance coverage and provide detailed cost estimates during your personal consultation. Dr. Abramson’s office also offers financing options to those who qualify.

To get started on your path to rejuvenation, contact Dr. Abramson and his staff at one of our four locations to schedule a personal consultation:

References

1. National Cancer Institute. Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy. National Cancer Institute. Published February 24, 2017. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/reconstruction-fact-sheet
2. Roy N, Downes MH, Ibelli T, et al. The psychological impacts of post-mastectomy breast reconstruction: a systematic review. Annals of Breast Surgery. 2024;8(0). doi:https://doi.org/10.21037/abs-23-33