Breast Reconstruction
Conveniently located near Houston, Bellaire, Memorial City & Cypress.
Breast Reconstruction
Who are good candidates for breast reconstruction?
Usually, women who have undergone a mastectomy (removal of the breast) or who have missing breasts due to an abnormality or an accident will benefit from breast reconstruction surgery. The best candidates don’t smoke and are close to their ideal weight.
How is breast reconstruction surgery done?
Breast reconstruction usually requires multiple sessions and stages. Initially, the breast mound is created, which may be done during or after a mastectomy. This process is performed under general anesthesia in the hospital. There are different methods used in reconstructing the breasts.
Techniques of breast reconstruction
The most common method used in breast reconstruction is skin expansion combined with implant insertion. This is done by placing a balloon expander beneath both the skin and chest (pectoralis) muscle of the breast. Once the expander has been inserted, the saline solution is injected through a tiny valve placed under the skin over the next few weeks. While the expander is filled, the skin stretches to adjust to the new breast. Dr. Baylan, after consulting with you, may choose to leave the expander in place or to have it replaced with a permanent breast implant. The final phase of the procedure involves reconstructing the areola and nipple.
Another approach to breast reconstruction is the creation of a flap using skin and/or fat from other areas of the body. If the flap is not large enough to create a new breast, an implant may be placed beneath it. The use of the skin flap makes the newly-reconstructed breast appear and feel more natural. It also eliminates the risks that come with silicone implants. However, this technique can create more scarring and requires a longer recovery period.
What can I expect during recovery from a breast reconstruction surgery?
For one to two weeks after breast reconstruction surgery, it is normal to feel tired and sore. It may take up to six weeks to fully recover from the procedure. Stitches are usually removed in a week to 10 days. It’s also likely that surgical drains will be in place to keep fluid from building up. These will be removed in one to two weeks. Scars will not disappear but will improve as time passes.
What are the risks involved in breast reconstruction surgery?
Aside from the common complications involved in any surgical procedure, breast reconstruction carries with it the risk of infection around the implant and capsular contracture, where the scar tissue surrounding the implant tightens.
Interested in Breast Reconstruction?
Dr. Baylan is currently booking consultations for breast reconstruction. Fill out the form below and we’ll contact you to set up your personalized consultation.
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