Breast Reconstruction

Restoring Confidence and Shape

Las Vegas NV

Breast cancer and related breast trauma can have long-lasting physical and emotional effects on women. Breast Reconstruction surgery is an opportunity to restore the appearance of the breasts and give you back your self-confidence. Dr. Marvin Spann will guide you through the Breast Reconstruction process as he helps determine the surgical methods that can offer the best outcome. Thankfully, new Breast Reconstruction procedures are now a huge part of the recovery process. Today it is common for cancer surgeons and plastic surgeons to work together to treat the cancer and restore a physical appearance that looks normal, natural and aesthetically pleasing. We understand this is a difficult time for you and your family. Please contact us today to discover your options. We look forward to assisting you.

BEFORE & AFTER

VISIT OUR GALLERY

What You Should Know About Breast Reconstruction

What To Expect?

During your first consultation with Dr. Marvin Spann, he will discuss the reconstructive surgery process. It is important to disclose where you are in the treatment process, which cancer surgeon is treating you, as well as provide any necessary pathology reports. The reconstruction process may take place in multiple steps if the breast tissue needs to be stretched to make room for implants. This discovery phase will help guide the reconstruction process so patients end up with a new breast that is the size, shape and look they want.

Breast Reconstruction Benefits:

Restores a natural breast appearance: Helps restore the appearance of a breast after mastectomy, providing a more symmetrical and feminine contour.
Improves self-confidence: Many women report feeling more whole and confident after breast reconstruction, as it can help them feel more like themselves and regain a sense of normalcy.
Variety of options: Depending on individual needs and preferences, breast reconstruction can be achieved with implants or autologous tissue (flap surgery), which uses your own tissue to create the breast.
Possible nipple and areola restoration: Nipple-areola reconstruction can be done in a later stage to further enhance the natural look of the reconstructed breast.

Surgical Technique

Each reconstruction technique will be tailored according to the patient’s physical health, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences. There are many factors playing into the approach that will be taken. The ultimate goal is to ensure the patient is healthy and happy with their final breast results.
There are two primary categories of breast reconstruction techniques:

Procedures that involve using a breast implant
Procedures that are autologous (use the patient’s own body’s tissue to reconstruct and recreate the breast)

RECONSTRUCTION WITH IMPLANTS

Breast Reconstruction using silicone or saline implants is a common approach that generally starts with the use of a tissue expander to help form a suitable pocket for an implant. The expander may be inserted after the mastectomy procedure or during the same operative session. Over the course of several months, the expander will slowly be enlarged using a sterile solution injected through a port residing under the skin. During the scheduled reconstruction surgery, the expanders are removed and replaced with permanent implants.

AUTOLOGOUS RECONSTRUCTION

If there is limited tissue inside the breast, or limited skin on the outside, tissue may be used from another part of the patient’s body to supplement this loss. The most common areas to support this process are the buttocks, thigh or abdomen. This is an autologous approach to breast reconstruction. The TRAM flap (Transverse Rectus Abdominus Myocutaneous), the DIEP flap and SIEA flap techniques involve taking skin and fat from the abdomen and relocating it to the breast. The Latissimus Dorsi Flap is another common method using tissue from the patient’s back.

NIPPLE/AREOLA RESTORATION

During a mastectomy, the nipple and areola often cannot be saved. The loss of one’s nipple and areola can be as unnerving as the removal of the breast itself. However, reconstruction techniques have advanced greatly, allowing plastic surgeons the opportunity to recreate these areas of the breast to give a natural, aesthetically appealing appearance. In a separate procedure, the nipple is created using existing breast skin or from the abdominal or latissimus flap. Using a tattoo technique, the areola is recreated with a skin graft taken from the thigh, abdomen or back.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

While breast reconstruction is generally safe, it carries some potential risks and side effects, including:

Pain, swelling, and bruising: These are common side effects and typically improve within a few weeks.
Scarring: Incisions are necessary for the procedure and will result in permanent scars. Your surgeon will strategically place them to minimize visibility, but some scarring is inevitable.
Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection, particularly if drains are placed in the surgical site or if there are issues with wound healing.
Changes in sensation: Numbness or changes in sensation can occur in the breast or chest area after reconstruction, especially if tissue flaps are used.
Tissue complications (in flap procedures): If autologous tissue (flap surgery) is used, there is a risk that the tissue may not "take" or that it may experience complications such as loss of blood flow.
Implant complications (if using implants): These include rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture, where scar tissue hardens around the implant.

PLAN YOUR PROCEDURE

To plan your breast reconstruction procedure, follow these steps:

1. Consultation with your surgeon: This is the most important step. Your surgeon will assess your medical history, discuss your goals, and determine the best approach for your reconstruction.

2. Coordinate with your oncologist: If you're undergoing reconstruction after mastectomy, your surgeon will coordinate with your oncologist to determine the best timing for surgery. It's important to wait for cancer treatments (such as chemotherapy or radiation) to conclude before proceeding with reconstruction.

3. Select the right technique: There are two main types of breast reconstruction:

Implant-based reconstruction: Involves using silicone or saline implants to rebuild the breast mound.
Autologous (flap) reconstruction: Involves using tissue from another part of your body (like the abdomen, back, or thighs) to form the breast.

4. Recovery preparation: Be sure to follow pre-surgery instructions, such as stopping certain medications and quitting smoking. Arrange for a support person to assist you during the initial recovery period.

5. Post-operative care: After surgery, you'll have follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing. Your surgeon will advise you on how to care for the surgical sites and manage any post-operative discomfort.

Breast Reconstruction PROCEDURE REVIEWS

I love them! Dr. Spann did my breast reconstruction after my double mastectomy and did a wonderful job. He made me feel beautiful again!

- Anonymous / Facebook / Oct 31, 2014

Am I a good candidate for Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction may be right for you if:

You’ve had a mastectomy or are planning to have one due to breast cancer.
You’re in good overall health and can tolerate surgery and anesthesia.
You’re emotionally ready for breast reconstruction and have discussed your goals and expectations with your surgeon.
You’ve completed cancer treatments (or will have the option to undergo reconstruction at the time of mastectomy if you're undergoing a two-stage procedure).
You understand the potential risks and benefits of breast reconstruction and have realistic expectations.
You’ve had a thorough discussion with both your oncologist and plastic surgeon to ensure the reconstruction process fits into your overall treatment plan.

If you're not sure if you're a good candidate, a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction will help you make the best decision.

RELATED PROCEDURES

Breast Reconstruction Procedure

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does breast reconstruction take?

The length of the procedure depends on the type of reconstruction and whether it's a single-stage or multi-stage process. Initial implant-based reconstruction may take 2-4 hours, while flap reconstruction can take 4-6 hours or longer.

When can I start feeling like myself again?

It varies from person to person, but most women start feeling like themselves again after 6-8 weeks. It may take longer to fully heal, especially if multiple procedures are involved.

Will I be able to feel my reconstructed breast?

The sensation in the reconstructed breast can vary. If you have a flap procedure using your own tissue, you may regain some sensation. However, implant-based reconstructions often result in reduced or no sensation.

Is breast reconstruction covered by insurance?

Yes, most health insurance plans cover breast reconstruction after mastectomy as part of breast cancer treatment. This includes both implant-based and autologous (flap) reconstruction. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details and requirements.

Can I undergo breast reconstruction at the same time as my mastectomy?

Yes, immediate breast reconstruction (reconstruction performed at the time of mastectomy) is an option for many women. This can often be a good choice if you're emotionally prepared and physically healthy enough to undergo both surgeries at once. If immediate reconstruction isn’t right for you, delayed reconstruction is another option.

Will I need further surgeries after breast reconstruction?

Some women choose to have additional procedures to refine the appearance of the breast, such as nipple-areola reconstruction, revisions to improve symmetry, or adjustments to the breast shape. Follow-up care and adjustments are common parts of the reconstruction process.

THE CARE YOU DESERVE

The Results You Desire

Couture Medical is where exceptional care meets exceptional results. Our patient-centered approach ensures that every treatment is designed to not only enhance your appearance but also to boost your confidence and well-being. With us, you receive the care you deserve and the results you’ve always envisioned.