Breast Reconstruction
Overview
Reconstruction of the breasts is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures for women today, and at Summit Health, it is a significant part of our practice. We are passionate about this procedure and how it can restore the lives of women who have endured the ordeal of breast cancer. As a result, we have performed thousands of successful breast reconstruction surgeries, including the most advanced techniques like DIEP Flap – a method that few surgeons in the northeast perform. Read more about DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction.
These newer techniques and procedures make it possible to create a breast that is similar in form and appearance to a natural breast. No two breast reconstructions are the same, and we have extensive experience with evaluating your case and determining the best method to bring you an excellent result.
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is not a simple procedure, but there are many potential options. Because the surgery improves your appearance, breast reconstruction can have a dramatic impact on the quality of your life, whether you must have double mastectomy reconstructive surgery or breast reconstruction after a partial mastectomy.
“After I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I made an appointment with Dr. Schmid to get reconstruction. When I was in his office talking to him, I started to cry. He stopped what he was doing and came over and hugged me, and so did his nurse, Michelle. Dr. Schmid made me feel comfortable and less scared. He always took the time to answer any questions that I may have had. Dr. Schmid is a caring, kind, compassionate doctor. He made me feel comfortable through the entire reconstruction process.”
Ready to get started?
Almost any woman who must lose a breast to cancer is a candidate for reconstructive breast surgery. Breast reconstruction can:
- Permanently restore the contours of your breasts
- Eliminate your need for a prosthesis
- Balance the size and shape of your breasts so that they are as symmetrical as possible
- Restore your self-confidence
- Help you feel that cancer is behind you
Although you can see the difference between a reconstructed and non-reconstructed breast, the breasts should appear even in shape and size when you are wearing a bra, bathing suit, and clothing.
Breast reconstruction can often be performed immediately after the removal of a tumor. This approach enables you to awaken from mastectomy surgery with a new breast(s) in place. In some cases, this is not possible, but we will continue with reconstruction as soon as is medically advisable. If the cancer involved was very extensive, it is better to delay the reconstruction for a period of time, but this is a rare occurrence.
Reconstruction has no known effect on the recurrence of breast cancer, nor does it prevent recurrent cancer from being detected. Breast reconstruction also does not interfere with post-operative chemotherapy, but patients who have radiation therapy under the arm(s) or chest should postpone having breast reconstruction to optimize radiation therapy. The flap techniques can tolerate radiation better than an implant.
Most insurance plans cover all stages of breast reconstruction.
Our Plastic Surgery Specialists
Peter Hyans, MD, FACS
Plastic Surgery
Jain Joseph, MD
Plastic Surgery
Daniel Pyo, MD, FACS
Plastic Surgery