Many people feel less feminine after a mastectomy to prevent or treat breast cancer. Breast reconstruction restores your self-confidence and feminine touch by restoring your feminine silhouette. If you are looking for a safe and minimally invasive breast reconstruction procedure, you can trust the West Palm Beach plastic surgeon at the practice to meet and exceed your expectations.

An overview of breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is an invasive procedure that reshapes your breasts following mastectomy, a surgery that removes your breast tissue to prevent or treat breast cancer. Several forms of breast reconstruction include silicon devices filled with saline or silicone gel. Breast reconstruction is an intricate procedure that requires the expertise of a board-certified plastic surgeon to minimize complications and meet your expectations. Depending on your doctor’s instructions and needs, you can schedule the procedure immediately after your mastectomy or later. Breast reconstruction often involves two appointments or two or three months apart to allow your chest skin to stretch and expand in preparation for the implants. The procedure may not restore the exact appearance and feel of the natural breast, but it restores your silhouette, making you feel beautiful and feminine again.

Preparation tips for breast reconstruction

Before a mastectomy, the L.A. Vinas M.D. Plastic Surgery, Med Spa & Skin Care Centers may refer you to an experienced plastic surgeon for a breast reconstruction consultation. Your breast surgeon and plastic surgeon work together to ensure that you get the necessary medical care and still get to preserve your natural silhouette. Your plastic surgeon may educate you about the advantages and disadvantages of breast implants and the associated risks. They may also provide pictures of women who have had the surgeries to show you the final results. When recommending breast reconstruction, the team considers factors such as your cancer treatment, health status, and body type. Before your procedure, follow your physician’s instructions. The instructions may include quitting smoking, guidelines on drinking and eating, and skipping specific medication to minimize your side effects and risk of complications.

What to expect during breast reconstruction

Plastic surgeons perform breast reconstruction in a hospital. Your provider may discuss the available anesthesia options before administering one to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. If your breast reconstruction choice is implants, your surgeon inserts the implants in your chest and if flap procedure is your choice, they harvest tissue from a part of your body and form a new breast. The team may insert a drain tube under your skin to drain excess fluid during recovery

Debunking myths about breast reconstruction

Despite the benefits associated with breast reconstruction, several myths may discourage you from making an appointment. One of the myths is that if you are having radiation, you are not eligible for breast reconstruction. Whether you are undergoing radiation or not, there is always a type of breast reconstruction procedure suitable for your needs. Another myth is that breast implants are the only form of breast reconstruction. There are several breast reconstruction procedures, including flap surgery.

If you are interested in trying out the benefits of breast reconstruction, call the L.A. Vinas M.D. Plastic Surgery, Med Spa & Skin Care Centers office, or book your spot online.