Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy
Having a mastectomy may be categorized as one of the toughest things a woman can experience. Dr. Andres offers breast reconstruction after mastectomy to women who are looking to maintain their cosmetic sense of self, as a separate consideration from staving off cancer.
By choosing a breast reconstruction, you will not have to be faced with wearing a permanent reminder for the rest of your life.
Dr. Andres takes great pride in being one of the finest surgeons, delivering among the top breast reconstruction after mastectomy Phoenix has to show for.
about the procedure
There are a number of techniques that can be applied toward a breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. Listed below, are a few methods Dr. Andres can use for breast reconstruction:
- Breast implants – Using tissue expanders, Dr. Andres will be able to gradually stretch the skin and tissue from the area in which the patient underwent a mastectomy. From there, Dr. Andres will be able to insert and position a breast implant. This implant may be either a saline or silicone implant, based on the patient’s preference and Dr. Andres’ recommendation.
- DIEP flap reconstruction – This procedure uses tissue from the abdomen to fill and recreate the appearance of natural breasts. Due to the nature of this surgery, there will be two surgical sites--the breasts as well as the site from which tissue is harvested. This method requires a longer recovery time.
- Latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction – This procedure takes muscle, fat, tissue and blood supply from the area of the patient’s upper back, and uses it to reconstruct the breast shape. Again, as the nature of this procedure calls for two surgical sites, the downtime will be longer than that of one pursuing breast implants.
- Gluteal free flap – This is a relatively newer form of breast reconstruction surgery. With this method, tissue from the buttocks, including the muscle is gathered to recreate the breast. This is potentially a good option for women who do not or perhaps are unable to use the usual sites, such as the abdomen or thighs, due to thinness, incisions, or other reasons. This procedure has two surgical sites, and therefore will require a longer period of recovery.
Dr. Andres will meet with you to determine exactly which method will serve you most. Dr. Andres makes it a priority to ensure that his patients are completely comfortable with their choice. Dr. Andres looks to perform some of the best breast reconstruction after mastectomy Scottsdale can extend.
During Recovery
After your surgery, you shall be able to return home with the treated areas properly bandaged, to facilitate the healing process. That being said, depending upon which method of surgery you undergo, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days, after your surgery. Due to the varying methods of breast reconstruction after mastectomy, recovery time will vary. Dr. Andres and his team will go over the recovery process for your chosen technique with you. You should avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for the first several weeks. Dr. Andres strives to administer some of the top breast reconstruction after mastectomy Scottsdale can make available.
During your consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Andres will go over the specifics of the procedure with you, to ensure that you are well informed, as well as confident in your decision. Dr. Andres will examine your body, so that he may be able to give his professional opinion as to whether or not this is the right procedure for you. It is important that if you have any questions or concerns regarding your breast reconstruction procedure, that you voice them to Dr. Andres so that he can properly take them up with you.
If you’re interested in learning more about your options for breast reconstruction after mastectomy in Phoenix, you can request a consultation online. Or if you’d rather, you are more than welcome to contact the office directly and one of our staff members will be able to assist you.
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