Winning Woman

Have you had a mastectomy and you’re now considering breast reconstruction? If yes, it’s important to get all the facts and weigh the pros and cons of the various breast reconstruction options. Take the time to find out how surgery will affect you physically and emotionally, and make sure you know what to expect during breast reconstruction.

What is breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a procedure that restores breast shape and tissue after a mastectomy. A mastectomy is done to remove the breast, usually as treatment after a breast cancer diagnosis. Women that undergo a mastectomy often experience emotional distress, and feel a diminished sense of femininity. Breast reconstruction is an uplifting experience that can improve their body image and self-esteem.

When to have breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction may be done at the same time of the mastectomy, or at a later date. The timing of breast reconstruction should be discussed with an oncologist, but also depends on the personal preference of the patient. Women that opt to have breast reconstruction at the time of their mastectomy generally get better cosmetic results.

Breast reconstruction options

The breasts can be reconstructed with implants, or by using natural tissue from the patient’s body.

What to expect during breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction with implants forms the breasts using implants that are filled with either silicone gel (silicone implants), or sterile saltwater (saline implants). It is a complex process that consists of two surgeries. The first procedure is done to insert a tissue expander.

Use of tissue expanders

Tissue expanders are an integral part of breast reconstruction with implants. They are used to expand the breast skin and muscle, to better accommodate the breast implant. The temporary expanders are made of silicone, and are placed below the chest muscle and gradually filled with saline solution over the following weeks.

Once the desired size has been reached, another surgical procedure is done to remove the expander, and replace it with a breast implant.

Recovery after tissue reconstruction with implants varies, depending on the extent of the procedure performed. Patients generally experience tiredness and soreness after implant surgery, and this may last for approximately 2 weeks. Most women are able to resume normal activities within 6-8 weeks of surgery.

Breast reconstruction using tissue flaps

Breast reconstruction may also be done using the autologous or flap construction technique in which skin, fat, and occasionally muscle from another part of the body, is used to rebuild the breast. The tissue used for the procedure is referred to as the flap, and is typically taken from the abdomen, thighs, back, or buttocks. The tissue and fat may be entirely removed from the original blood supply, or may remain attached to the blood vessels.

There are different flap construction techniques, including the popular deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap. With the DIEP flap construction method, skin and fat is taken from the lower abdomen to form the breast. No muscle is used for this technique, so the abdominal muscle is left intact.

The transverse rectus abdominis (TRAM) flap is another flap reconstruction method that uses skin and fat from the abdominal region, to recreate the breast. However, TRAM also uses a portion of the rectus abdominis muscle in the lower abdomen, and this does have the potential to affect function in the abdominal region.

Comparing breast reconstruction options

Natural tissue flaps look and feel a lot more like the natural breast tissue. The results of flap reconstruction are generally permanent, but breast implants sometimes have to be replaced due to complications.

Which breast reconstruction option is right for you?

The best breast reconstruction option for you will depend on your specific situation, body type, and needs. Be sure to consult with a plastic surgeon that specializes in breast reconstruction, so that you know what to expect with the various options, as this will allow you to make an informed decision.

Would you like more information on breast reconstruction?

If you are in the El Paso, TX area, contact El Paso Cosmetic Surgery for more information on the available options.

Call (915) 800-0617 today to set up a consultation with Dr. Ozan Sozer.

There are several types of breast enhancement procedures available, so understandably patients are sometimes confused about the purpose of the various options. Breast revision surgery and breast reconstruction are two surgeries that are routinely performed.

Understanding the difference between breast revision surgery and breast Reconstruction

Breast revision surgery

Breast revision surgery is a procedure that is done to revise the appearance of the breasts after an original breast augmentation surgery. This may involve changing the size of breast implants, or addressing complications.

Some women are disappointed with the outcome of their breast augmentation surgery and undergo breast revision to adjust the implant size. Others may experience complications such as breast implant rupture or rippling, capsular contracture, loss of symmetry, or the movement of the implant.

Patients are generally advised to wait at least 6-12 months before considering breast revision surgery, as the implants take time to settle into a natural position.

The procedure

There are several options that can be used to perform breast revision surgery and the choice will depend on the issues being corrected, and the aesthetic goals of the patient.

Surgery may sometimes simply involve switching out implants in preference for a larger or smaller size. At other times surgery is done to correct a problem like capsular contracture.

Capsular contracture occurs as a result of the formation of scar tissue around the breast implant, which can harden and squeeze the implant. A capsulectomy is done to address capsular contracture, by removing the scar tissue.

Recovery

Recovery time after breast revision varies, depending on the type of revision done. The breasts are normally covered with gauze after the procedure, and a surgical sports bra is worn for at least 4 weeks. This provides support for the breasts, and helps to minimize swelling.

Breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a surgical option for women that have had a mastectomy. It creates a breast mound, and restores breast shape and symmetry. Implants and autologous ’flap’ reconstruction are the two major options for breast reconstruction.

Although the goal of breast reconstruction is to rebuild the breast so that it is similar in appearance to the remaining breast, the results are sometimes variable.

The decision to undergo breast reconstruction is a very personal one. Some women opt to have the procedure done at the time of the mastectomy, while others choose to have breast reconstruction at a later date, or not at all.

Breast reconstruction with implants

Breast implants come in various shapes and sizes. The main types of implants are saline and silicone implants. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and silicone implants are filled with silicone gel. Silicone implants are often preferred, because they are softer and feel a lot like natural breast tissue.

Breast reconstruction with implants is a 3 step process that starts with tissue expansion. This involves using a temporary tissue expander to stretch the breast tissue and muscle, to accommodate the implant. The tissue expander is placed below the skin and chest muscle, and is gradually blown up with saline solution to achieve the desired size.

Another operation is then done to remove the tissue expander and replace it with a breast implant. The nipple-areolar complex is then reconstructed.

Autologous Flap reconstruction

This method uses the woman’s own tissue to rebuild the breast. Two of the most common options are the TRAM (transverse rectus abdominis muscle) flap, and the DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap.

The TRAM flap involves the use of muscle, skin, and fat from the lower abdominal region. The DIEP flap also uses skin and fat from the lower abdomen, but no muscle.

Recovery

The incisions are bandaged, and surgical drains may be placed below the skin to collect any excess blood and fluid. Patients are given post-surgical instructions about how to care for incisions, and when to follow-up with their plastic surgeon.

Whereas breast revision surgery corrects a problem with a previous breast surgery, breast reconstruction surgery is done to restore the breast after a mastectomy.

If you are in the Tucson or Sierra Vista, AZ areas, contact Dermatology and Plastic Surgery of AZ for more information.

Call 520-207-3100 for the Tucson location, or 520-458-1787 for the Sierra Vista location to set up a consultation.

If you’ve decided to undergo breast augmentation, there are many important choices you need to make to achieve the attractive breasts you desire. Selecting the right implants is likely to be the most difficult and time consuming decision, so be sure to find out what your choices are for breast implants.

Why choose breast augmentation

Many women opt to undergo breast augmentation to reverse changes in the breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Weight loss and aging can also have lasting effects on the shape and size of the breasts, causing them to lose volume and look deflated. Breast augmentation will enhance the shape of the breasts, and increase their size. Women that feel their breasts are too small or asymmetrical, also opt for breast augmentation.

Understanding breast implant choices

There are many aspects to breast implants, as they are available in various shapes, sizes, textures, and profiles. Final results will also be impacted by the width, height, and projection of the implants.

Since there are so many factors to consider, your plastic surgeon will work closely with you to find the implant that is the best fit for your body type, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Choices for breast implants include the following:

• Saline implants
  These implants contain a sterile saline solution, and are filled after they are placed in the breast. Should a rupture occur with saline implants it is immediately noticeable. The saline solution will be absorbed and then expelled from the body. Since saline implants are filled on placement, a smaller incision is required, and the size can be adjusted as needed. Saline implants are FDA approved for women 18 years and older.

• Silicone Implants
  Silicone implants are a popular choice for breast augmentation, primarily because they produce a more natural result than saline implants, as they mimic the look and feel of natural breast tissue. They are FDA approved for women 22 years and older, and are pre-filled with silicone gel. Since Silicone implants are filled prior to surgery, they require a larger incision.
• Form-stable silicone implants
  These are also referred to as ‘gummy bear implants,’ because they keep their shape even if the implant shell is broken. They are made of thicker silicone than the normal silicone implants, and this allows them to remain in place when there is a rupture. Gummy bear implants are less prone to wrinkling because of their thickness, and have a lower rate of capsular contracture. Capsular contracture is a complication linked to breast augmentation that occurs when scar tissue develops around the implant.
• Round shaped Implants
  Round implants are circular in shape and give the breasts a fuller appearance in the upper pole. Round implants don’t normally rotate or shift out of place, so there is less chance of complications such as bottoming out.
• Tear drop shaped implants
  These implants are also known as anatomical shaped implants and have textured surfaces. Tear drop shaped implants are thinner at the top and fuller at the bottom, which is similar to the natural shape of the breast.

Breast implants may also be smooth or textured. Smooth implants are generally softer and therefore look and feel a lot like the natural breast. However, they may shift position over time and cause visible rippling.

Textured implants have a rough outer texture that allows them to stick to the body’s tissue. As a result, they tend to stay in position, and have a low risk of capsular contracture.

The profile of the implant is another important consideration when choosing breast implants. The profile refers to the projection of the breast from the chest wall. Implants may be placed in either the subglandular or submuscular region.

In order to have the best breast implant surgery possible and achieve the results you desire, it’s important to be involved in all the decisions relating to surgery. Understanding your choices for breast implants will help you make an informed decision.

If you are in The Woodlands or Houston, TX areas, contact board certified plastic surgery Dr. Bryan Correa of Correa Plastic Surgery to learn more about breast augmentation.

Call (281) 884-3189 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Correa.

If you’ve had breast augmentation, chances are you never thought about having breast revision surgery. However, the reality is that breast implants don’t last a lifetime and complications can occur, so breast revision is often necessary. But what is done in a breast revision vs augmentation.

Breast revision surgery

Breast revision surgery is typically done to correct a previous breast surgery, usually breast augmentation. Breast revision may be required to correct a complication of breast implant surgery such as capsular contracture, loss of symmetry, or rupture of the breast implant.

In addition, women that are unhappy with the results of their initial breast augmentation surgery may opt to have breast revision, to change the size of their existing implants.

How is breast revision done?

The breast revision procedure will vary depending on the specific concern being corrected.

Repairing capsular contracture requires opening the capsule and replacing the implants. Capsular contracture is a condition that occurs when the tissue capsule that naturally forms around the implant shrinks and squeezes the implant, causing it to harden. Some surgeons opt to add a biological mesh or biomesh to the implant, in order to reduce the chance of a reoccurrence.

Resolving asymmetry typically involves the addition of an internal mesh to strengthen the tissues, and helps the implant settle in a more natural position. Breast implants can become asymmetrical due to the stretching of the breast tissue.

Ruptured implants have to be replaced. The rupture of saline implants is easily detected, as the saline solution leaks out of the silicone shell very quickly, resulting in a noticeable change in breast size. However, it typically takes an MRI to detect the rupture of a silicone implant, because the silicone gel leaks out very slowly, so there may not be a change in the size of the breasts for a very long time.

Patients that have a size issue will have implants replaced to either increase or decrease their cup size, depending on their aesthetic goals.

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that is done to increase the size of the breasts, so that they appear fuller and shapelier. The procedure can also be done to correct asymmetrical breasts.

The breasts often lose volume and become deflated due to the effects of pregnancy and breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging. Breast augmentation will replace lost volume, and increase the projection of the breasts.

How is breast augmentation done?

Breast augmentation is typically done by placing implants in the breasts. The most common options are saline implants, silicone implants, or form stable implants also known as gummy bear implants.

Breast implants

• Saline implants have an outer shell of silicone, but contain sterile salt water. They are usually filled during surgery.
• Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, and come pre-filled. Silicone implants are a popular choice, because they feel like natural breast tissue.
• Gummy bear implants contain silicone gel that has a thicker consistency than the gel found in traditional silicone implants. As a result, the implants maintain their shape even when cut in half. Gummy bear implants are tear drop shaped, as they are tapered at the top and wider at the bottom.

Breast augmentation is done on an outpatient basis, using general anesthesia or local anesthesia.

Incisions

There are several techniques that can be used to perform breast augmentation, and this will determine the placement of the incisions. The most common technique involves making an incision under the breast at the inframammary crease.

Placement

The breast implants are inserted through the incisions into a pocket that is made. Implants may be placed either above the chest muscle (subglandular), or below the chest muscle (submuscular).

The incisions are closed with sutures, and patients are given post-operative instructions to facilitate healing at home.

Recovery

After breast augmentation, patients can expect some swelling and mild bruising, and there will also be some tightness in the chest. Patients are generally able to go back to work within 1-2 weeks.

Are you interested in breast revision or breast augmentation?

If you are in the Columbus Ohio metro area, contact Dorner Plastic Surgery, Dublin, OH, for more information.

Call (614) 515-4116 today to set up a consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Dorner.

If you’ve decided to have breast augmentation done, you should take the time to find a highly qualified, experienced plastic surgeon. Breast augmentation is a major surgical procedure with inherent risks, so choosing a qualified surgeon will help reduce those risks, and ensure that you get the results you want. It’s therefore important to know what to look for in a breast augmentation surgeon.

Choosing a breast augmentation surgeon requires a lot of research, and it’s necessary to seek out objective information.

What should you look for in a breast augmentation surgeon?

Board certification

One of the first things to consider when looking for a breast augmentation surgeon is their credentials. This is essential, because general surgeons can also perform breast augmentation if they choose to, but it’s always advisable to decide on a surgeon that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).

ABPS certification signifies that the plastic surgeon has completed the requisite training in general and plastic surgery, as well as a series of rigorous oral and written exams. The ABPS website is a good resource for finding a ABPS certified surgeon.

Having breast augmentation done by a board certified plastic surgeon can safeguard your safety, because these surgeons are held to certain standards that are intended to keep patients safe.

It’s also helpful to look for a plastic surgeon that participates in ongoing medical education, and keeps up to date on the latest techniques that allows them to give their patients the excellent results they’re looking for.

Some surgeons also choose to join medical associations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).

Extensive surgical experience

Once you have established that the surgeon has the right credentials you can book a consultation to find out more. The extent of the surgeon’s experience performing breast augmentation is another factor that should be considered. During your consultation be sure to ask about their experience, and find out how many breast augmentation surgeries they do each year.

It’s best to choose a plastic surgeon that performs breast augmentation on a regular basis. Your plastic surgeon is an important resource when determining the right shape and size implants for your body, in order to get the best results. Surgeons that have a lot of experience are usually better at this.

Reputation for excellence and high quality outcomes

Take the time to review before and after photos of prior patients, and determine if you like the breast augmentation results that you see. Looking at a large portfolio of photos can help you gauge the surgeon’s skill level and quality of work. When reviewing the photos, pay particular attention to breast proportions and symmetry, as well as the shape and contours.

It’s best to look at photos of patients that have a similar body type and aesthetic concerns, as it lets you see the type of results you can reasonably expect.

When you are looking for a breast augmentation surgeon reviewing before and after photos can help you decide if the surgeon can deliver the results you wish to achieve.

Good Bedside Manner

A good bedside manner is one of the distinguishing characteristics of a good physician. This generally refers to the way in which the surgeon interacts with you and answers all the questions that you take along. The plastic surgeon should be willing and able to answer all your questions satisfactorily, and you should feel comfortable opening up to them about any concerns you may have about the operation.

Choose a surgeon that is able to clearly explain the techniques and steps involved in breast augmentation using language that is easy to understand.

Also, take a look at online reviews from past patients and see what they liked, or did not like about the surgeon.

Operates in an accredited facility

ABPS certified surgeons are required to operate in a well-maintained, accredited facility that meets national standards.

Are you looking for a highly experienced breast augmentation surgeon?

If you are in the Orange County area, contact Kyle Song MD, Irvine, CA for a consultation.

Call (949) 528-8306 today to set up your appointment.

If you would like to increase the size of your breasts, breast augmentation can give you the beautiful, shapelier breasts you desire. When planning for breast augmentation there are many decisions to be made regarding the size and placement of the implants. However, one of the most important questions to ask your surgeon is – Where is the incision made during breast augmentation.

Where is the incision made during a breast augmentation
The placement of the incision for breast augmentation surgery will depend on the specific technique being used.

When performing breast augmentation, the plastic surgeon typically chooses between the following incisions.

• Periareolar incision. The periareolar incision is made around the edge of the areola, which is the area of dark pigment that surrounds the nipple. The scar for this incision is virtually indiscernible. However, a downside to the periareolar incision is the possibility of capsular contracture.
• Inframammary incision. This is the incision of choice for many plastic surgeons, because it offers a number of benefits. The incision is made along the inframammary fold located at the bottom of the breast. The inframammary incision gives surgeons a clear view of the surgical area, and can accommodate implants of all sizes.
• Transaxillary incision. This incision is made within the natural folds of the armpit. A channel is then created that leads to the breast, and a pocket is made to hold the implant. The biggest advantage of the transaxillary incision is the fact that the incision is not near the breast, however, it is too small to accommodate silicone breast implants.

Are you interested in breast augmentation? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Orange County area, Tenley Lawton, MD in Newport Beach, CA is our featured board certified plastic surgeon.

You can reach Dr. Lawton at www.lawtonmd.com, or by calling (949) 835-4617.