Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery After Mastectomy

After having a mastectomy or a lumpectomy, many women consider having breast reconstruction surgery performed. While some techniques utilize implants to create a more symmetrical appearance, there are other types of surgery that involve using tissue to form the breast. Knowing the available options can help you choose which type of surgery is right for you.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

There are two different types of breast reconstruction surgery that can be performed on patients after mastectomies. These include the following.

Flap Reconstruction

A flap reconstruction is a procedure that involves removing various tissues from the patient’s body and using them to form the breast. In many cases, the tissue is removed from the lower abdomen or belly area. However, it can also come from the back, bottom, and thigh area.

Depending on the type of procedure that is performed, the surgeon may remove blood vessels, fat, and skin from one area and use it during surgery. In some cases, the surgeon will also remove muscle tissues.

Implant Reconstruction

The second type of breast reconstruction surgery involves the use of implants rather than body tissues. The surgeon will either use a silicone or a saline implant to recreate breast tissue. In some cases, surgeons will combine the use of implants with the use of tissues from the body. There are three different types of implant reconstruction surgery. These include:

• Implant with tissue expanders: This surgery will involve the placement of an expander under the skin. One time per week, the expanders will be filled with saline, which gradually stretches the skin for the placement of the implant.
• Under the chest muscle: This surgery involves lifting up the chest muscles and placing the implant beneath it.
• Above the chest muscle: This surgery involves placing the implant right on top of the chest muscle.

When patients opt for implant reconstruction, the surgery may be able to occur with the mastectomy in some cases. However, it can also be performed later on.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you are interested in breast reconstruction surgery after undergoing a mastectomy, reach out to Plastic Surgery Specialists of New Jersey at (201) 664-8000 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Frank Ferraro can meet with you at your earliest convenience to discuss the options that are available to help you feel like you again.