Breast Reconstruction

When an illness such as cancer attacks, it can be overwhelming and heart-wrenching on many levels. In order to remove the cancer, it may be necessary to remove a breast through a mastectomy. However, thanks to the latest medical technology, plastic surgeons are able to reconstruct the breast to make it look more natural and shapely.

Our surgeons are experienced professionals who understand the unique needs of women battling breast cancer. To learn more about your reconstructive options, request a consultation at The Wall Center for Plastic Surgery or call our office at  (318) 795-0801. Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas women trust our practice to help them improve their lives after mastectomy.

Who Needs It

Nearly every woman in need of a mastectomy is a candidate for breast reconstruction. However, it is sometimes best to wait for the procedure if there is a chance that the cancer will still be present following surgery. The benefits of simultaneous versus secondary breast reconstruction surgery following mastectomy can be discussed during your consultation.

Breast Reconstruction or Revision?

If you are unhappy with the appearance of one or both breasts, it may be confusing to know whether you need a reconstruction or revision procedure. Here is a comparison to clarify:

• Breast reconstruction is typically performed after mastectomy or lumpectomy. This procedure completely replaces the breast or restores the appearance of a breast partially lost or disfigured due to trauma or treatment of cancer or another disease. The breast may be recreated using a breast implant or the patient’s own tissue (called a flap reconstruction).
• Breast revision surgery is a broad term for cosmetic surgery that corrects previous breast surgery such as breast augmentation, breast lift, and even breast reconstruction. Reasons for revision surgery include replacing breast implants, addressing complications such as capsular contracture, and improving the shape of a reconstructed breast.

As experts in breast surgery, our surgeons have extensive experience and a proven track record of success performing these complex operations for a diversity of cases.

Preparing for Breast Reconstruction in Louisiana

A large part of the planning involved in a breast reconstruction is shouldered by two physicians your oncologist and plastic surgeon – as they coordinate the surgery. Together with each of them, you will discuss how to prepare for the surgery. When surgeries are performed simultaneously, a hospital stay of a couple of days is generally recommended to ensure you receive optimal care.

The Surgery

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep during the entire process. Generally, your plastic surgeon will begin to operate when the oncologist has finished removing the cancerous cells from the breast.

There are two methods employed to reconstruct breasts – skin expansion and the flap method. When skin expansion is used, a balloon is inserted into the breast tissue and is expanded to create room for new tissue. The surgeon will insert the implant and suture the skin after enough tissue forms. Micropigmentation may be used recreate a nipple for a more natural look.

The flap method involves taking tissue from a donor site, such as the back, abdomen or buttocks, and is moved to the breast area. Sometimes, it is removed and then transplanted, while other times, the tissue remains intact with continuous blood flow and is moved through the body and positioned into place on the chest. Some women have enough tissue on the chest to form a new breast mound, while other women will need a breast implant in Louisiana.

Results

Most patients are very pleased with their Louisiana breast reconstruction results and relieved that after undergoing such an ordeal with cancer, they will still look good in their clothes. While the new breast will not exactly match the original breast, it will look the same under clothes. Some sensation on the breast will be lost permanently and scars will never completely go away, although over several months the scars will fade to become much less noticeable.

It will take several weeks to recover from the surgery although noticeable improvements should be seen after a week or so. Ultimately, breast reconstruction can restore a normal and natural-looking shape and most patients are very pleased and confident in the results.

Request a Consultation

If you are considering breast reconstruction in Louisiana, Arkansas, or Texas, our surgeons can help. Request a consultation at The Wall Center for Plastic Surgery or call our office at  (318) 795-0801.