Breast Reconstruction

What is a breast reconstruction procedure?

Dr. Ali Totonchi understands the physical and emotional stress patients experience when faced with breast loss due to mastectomy. Dr. Totonchi offers breast reconstruction in our certified plastic surgery facilities, which involves a series of procedures that will restore the breast to a more natural appearance after the patient has undergone a mastectomy. Following breast reconstruction, a patient will have a reconstructed breast mound with the use of breast implants or relocated flaps. A patient undergoing a breast reconstruction also has the option to have the areola and nipples rebuilt to make the breast appear more natural.

Breast reconstruction performed in our Cleveland, OH certified facilities helps restore the breast and achieve a more natural breast profile; however, this procedure cannot restore the function and sensation that natural breasts have. The incision lines that are made from the breast reconstruction procedure and the previous mastectomy will still be visible even after breast reconstruction. For patients who opt to use their own tissue for the flap reconstruction, it is to be expected that the incisions made during harvesting of the tissue will also leave permanent marks.

What are the different breast reconstruction techniques?

In our certified facilities, we use traditional and innovative techniques in our procedures in an effort to provide the best patient care to our patients. For breast reconstruction, the most common technique that Dr. Ali Totonchi uses is tissue expander based breast reconstruction and reconstruction with flaps.

The most common method of breast reconstruction is the use of tissue expander breast implants. This involves the insertion of a tissue expander under a pocket that was created under the muscles of the patient’s chest wall. After surgery, we usually wait for 3 weeks for the tissues to heal. Then, a saline solution will be used to expand the tissue expander by injecting it through the overlying tissue.

Breast reconstruction with flaps is also a very common technique used for patients in Cleveland, OH. Using this technique, Dr. Ali Totonchi harvests tissue from the patient’s back or abdomen to be used for breast reconstruction. The technique of choice, which serves the patient the best, will be determined during office visits after reviewing the benefits and drawbacks of each surgery.

What can patients expect after breast reconstruction?

The recovery for patients who have undergone breast reconstruction varies based on individual patient health, lifestyle, and the type of surgery performed. Generally, healing continues weeks after the procedure is completed. Patients are advised by Dr. Ali Totonchi to take it slow and not to strain themselves after their breast reconstruction procedure. Patients will be provided instructions on proper post-operative care and will be advised to wear support brassieres during the healing period. A breast reconstruction procedure for patients in Cleveland, OH will help to restore the self-confidence and positive self-image of our patients who have undergone mastectomy.

Give us a call today at (440) 461-7999 or schedule an appointment online for more information about breast reconstruction surgery in Cleveland, OH.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Techniques

Dr. Bahman Guyuron offers several advanced breast reconstruction techniques to restore a natural breast appearance after mastectomy. The most common methods employed are tissue expander-based reconstruction and flap reconstruction. These techniques utilize the patient's own tissues or prosthetic devices to rebuild the breast mound, aiming to achieve symmetry and a pleasing aesthetic outcome.

Tissue expander-based reconstruction involves placing a temporary expander under the skin and muscle of the chest wall, which is gradually filled with saline over several weeks to stretch the skin. Once sufficient skin coverage is achieved, the expander is removed and replaced with a permanent breast implant. Flap reconstruction, on the other hand, involves transferring tissue from another part of the body, such as the abdomen, back, or buttocks, to create a natural breast mound.

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction offers significant psychological and emotional benefits for women who have undergone a mastectomy. The procedure can help restore a sense of wholeness, improve self-confidence, and enhance body image, allowing patients to feel more comfortable and empowered in their daily lives.

Beyond the psychological advantages, breast reconstruction can also lead to improved physical symmetry between the breasts, which can be a source of distress for many women post-mastectomy. The ability to wear regular clothing and swimwear without feeling self-conscious is a commonly cited benefit, contributing to a better overall quality of life.

Choosing the Right Breast Reconstruction Method

Selecting the most suitable breast reconstruction technique is a personalized decision that depends on various factors, including the patient's overall health, the extent of the mastectomy, the desired aesthetic outcome, and personal preferences. Dr. Bahman Guyuron works closely with each patient to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each surgical option.

During an in-depth consultation, Dr. Guyuron will review your medical history, examine your chest, and discuss your aesthetic goals. Factors such as the presence of radiation therapy, the amount of available tissue, and your lifestyle will be considered to determine whether tissue expander-based reconstruction, flap reconstruction, or a combination of techniques would yield the best results for you.

Recovery Process After Breast Reconstruction

The recovery period following breast reconstruction surgery varies significantly from patient to patient, influenced by individual health, lifestyle, and the specific surgical technique employed. Patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which are managed with pain medication and rest.

Most patients are able to return to light daily activities within a few weeks, while a full return to strenuous exercise and more demanding physical activities may take several months. Dr. Guyuron's team provides comprehensive post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth and optimal recovery, including guidelines for wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.