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.