Restore Your Figure with Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction Candidacy

Patients who have had one or both breasts removed due to cancer may be eligible for breast reconstruction surgery. Candidates should:

• Be cancer-free
• Wish to restore the size and shape of their breasts
• Be a non-smoker
• Be free from certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
• Have realistic expectations of the treatment and outcome
• Be committed to following all recommended guidelines during and after treatment

Since breast reconstruction treatment may require multiple procedures over the course of several months, it is important that patients fully understand the process. During your initial consultation, we will provide a detailed explanation of the procedure. 

Your Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Before your breast reconstruction surgery, Dr. Atwood will perform a comprehensive evaluation. During this appointment, he will talk to you about your personal goals as well as review your medical history and body type. Once all required information has been gathered, he will discuss your treatment options with you. Following a mastectomy, Dr. Atwood works alongside an oncologist to ensure optimal results and the shortest surgery time.

Following a mastectomy, Dr. Atwood works alongside an oncologist to ensure optimal results and the shortest surgery time.

Though Dr. Atwood performs LD and TRAM flap surgery when indicated, breast implant-based reconstruction is recommended in the majority of cases. Our team can help you determine which type of treatment will be best for you.

On the day of your breast reconstruction surgery, you will be escorted to a comfortable treatment room where general anesthesia will be administered. In most cases, this procedure can be completed in about six to seven hours. However, this time can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the type of method chosen.

Immediate vs. Delayed Reconstruction

Immediate reconstruction is performed at the same time as the mastectomy, while delayed reconstruction requires a waiting period. Delayed reconstruction is sometimes necessary, particularly in cases where further cancer treatments are required. In the United States, less than 40 percent of women who undergo mastectomies are able to have immediate reconstruction. Dr. Atwood offers both immediate and delayed reconstruction and will work with you to perform your surgery as soon and as safely possible.

Recovery after Breast Reconstruction

Immediately following breast reconstruction surgery, patients should anticipate soreness and tenderness. In most instances, you will be kept in the hospital for at least two to five days to ensure proper recovery. During the first phase of recovery, you can expect:

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness around the surgical site
• Scarring
• Numbness or loss of sensation

The length of your recovery will largely depend on the type of surgical technique used. Flap reconstruction typically takes longer since there are two surgical sites instead of one. In most cases, however, patients can expect to reach full recovery around the six-week mark.

Learn More about Breast Reconstruction

If you have recently had a mastectomy, or you are about to undergo treatment for breast cancer, breast reconstruction could be an option for you. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, contact us online or call our office at (479) 443-7771.