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Breast
Reconstrucaion
Mastectomy (removal of the breast) for cancer is the most common reason
that women come seeking breast reconstruction, but other problems such
as severe post radiation changes or congenital (inherited defects)
deformities can also lead the patient to seek reconstruction.
Recent advances in reconstructive techniques have opened a whole host
of options to the patient seeking breast reconstruction. Board Certified
Plastic Surgeon, Douglas M, Senderoff,
MD, FACS,
can often create a breast that closely approximates the form, feel, and
appearance of a normal breast.
The use of artificial materials such as
implantable breast prostheses, breast implants, tissue expansion techniques, and the
transplantation of the patient's own tissue either by pedicled flaps or
by the free flap technique all serve as part of the plastic surgeon's
tools. Even tissue from such distant areas as the abdomen or buttock
region can be used. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Douglas Senderoff, MD, FACS, must examine the patient and discuss the
various options to choose the technique which will best serve each
patient. Often a combination of techniques may be chosen to produce the
best result.
If you're considering breast reconstruction...
Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other
disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available
today. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Douglas M. Senderoff, MD, FACS, to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance
to matching a natural breast. 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.
But bear in mind, post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is not a simple
procedure. There are often many options to consider as you and your
doctor explore what's best for you.
This information will give you a basic understanding of the procedure --
when it's appropriate, how it's done, and what results you can expect.
It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your
individual circumstances. Feel free to schedule a complimentary
consultation with Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Douglas M. Senderoff,
MD, FACS, so that he can answer any questions which you may have.
The Best Candidate for Breast Reconstruction
Most mastectomy patients are medically appropriate for reconstruction,
many at the same time that the breast is removed. The best candidates,
however, are women whose cancer, as far as can be determined, seems to
have been eliminated by mastectomy.
In any case, being informed of your reconstruction options before
surgery can help you prepare for a mastectomy with a more positive
outlook for the future.
Breast Reconstruction Frequently
Asked Questions & Answers
What is the importance of Federal Legislation in 1998 for women's
health?
All insurance companies have to cover breast reconstruction after
mastectomy. They also have to cover procedures on the opposite breast to
obtain symmetry, including reduction, augmentation and mastopexy.
Recently, situations have risen where coverage for opposite-breast
surgery after lumpectomy may be denied by insurance companies.
Is immediate or delayed breast reconstruction surgery best for me?
Most women are candidates for some type of immediate breast
reconstruction. Since reconstruction is an additional major surgery,
women should be carefully evaluated to understand all the risks and
benefits. Multiple studies have shown tremendous psychological benefits
to women who have immediate breast reconstruction.
What surgical options are available for breast reconstruction?
Women who desire to use their own tissue generally prefer the tram flap
(abdomen) or a lateral dorsi flap (back) as a secondary choice.
Using tissue expanders to stretch the skin for implant use is a simple
option; however, implants do get firmer and harder with time. The
plastic surgeon
will discuss all your options with you.
What is a tram flap?
A Transverse Rectus Abdominus Myocutaneous (TRAM) flap involves using
skin and fat from the lower abdomen to rebuild the breast. The muscle is
used to carry blood supply to skin and fatty tissue so volume can be
replaced to match what is removed. The abdominal closure tightens the
abdominal wall similar to a tummy tuck.
Are silicone breast implants safe?
Yes, silicone breast implants are safe and Douglas Senderoff, MD, FACS, who is a Board
Certified Plastic Surgeon, is a clinical investigator involved with the Inamed trials - he is one of a select few plastic surgeons in Manhattan
who can offer you the option of silicon breast implants or saline breast
implants . Saline implants are extremely safe with very low infection or
leakage rates. Soft tissue coverage over the implant is very important,
so the implant is placed behind the chest muscle.
Does immediate breast reconstruction delay additional treatment for
breast cancer?
No. The vast majority of patients who have immediate breast
reconstruction can start chemotherapy within a month of the surgery.
This time frame is not significantly different to women who only have a
mastectomy. There is tremendous amount of plastic surgery literature
that documents their benefits as well as the feeling of "wholeness" and
improved psychological benefits.
If you
have any questions about breast reconstruction, breast implants (silicone
breast implants or saline breast implants), breast augmentation, breast
lift, or any other plastic surgery procedures please feel free to
contact Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Douglas M Senderoff, MD, FACS,
at his Manhattan
or Westchester, New York offices.
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Copyright © 2004 Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Douglas M. Senderoff,
MD, FACS
Site Design - NewYorkSEO - Manhattan, New York
Westchester Office: 90 South Ridge Street, Rye Brook, New York,
10573 t) 914- 934-5000
Manhattan Office: 461 Park Avenue
South, Manhattan, New York 10016 t) 212-481-3939
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