Reconstructive plastic surgery procedures
Below is a list of all the surgical procedures that we do. Click on the links to
learn more about each one.
Facial |
Breast |
Body contouring |
Other procedures
Breast reconstruction surgery is designed to restore
the natural form to a patient's breast(s) following mastectomy for cancer. This
surgery can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy or at a later date. There are several options for reconstruction. One option is to use an
implant, either immediately, or following expansion of the breast skin. Other options include using a patient's own tissues from the lower abdomen or
from the back. Each of these options has specific advantages. A decision is made
following a comprehensive consultation to find out the individual patient's
goals and desires.
Breast reconstruction allows a cancer patient to feel whole again and is an
important step toward recovery both mentally and physically.
Breast reduction surgery is indicated in patients who have
breast enlargement, which results in neck or back discomfort. It can also be
performed for correction of low nipple position. This type of surgery is
sometimes covered by insurance plans.
What size will I be after a reduction? An exact size cannot be
guaranteed after surgery. The surgeon can give you a general idea following
consultation. The surgeon's goal is to achieve the best size and appearance for
each patient in a safe manner.
Where are the incisions placed? The most common type of reduction results in
incisions around each nipple and under each breast. These incisions usually fade
with time and are well hidden.
What is the recovery like after surgery? Breast reduction surgery is usually
an outpatient procedure. Post-operative pain is well controlled with
medications. Sometimes drains are required. These are removed in the office a
few days later. Walking is encouraged but heavy activities are not allowed for a
few weeks. A sports-bra is recommended after the procedure. Overall, there is a
very high satisfaction rate following breast reduction.
When can I resume normal activities? Routine everyday activities can be
resumed after 4-7 days. Exercise and heavy lifting are to be avoided for 4
weeks.
Can I breast feed after a reduction? Most patients can breast feed following
reduction surgery. However, it is also common to need to supplement with formula
as the baby grows.
Does nipple sensation change after surgery? The majority of patients maintain
or regain normal nipple sensation following surgery.
Does surgery affect the risk of breast cancer? Breast reduction does not
increase the risk of an individual developing breast cancer. Mammograms can
still be performed in the future.
Gynecomastia is a condition in which there are excess
fat deposits under the nipples. Although this is a common condition, it can be a
source of great embarrassment for patients. This fat can be removed through a
combination of liposuction or direct excision to achieve a flatter, more
athletic chest. The scars are usually well hidden around the nipples.
What is the typical recovery period for this procedure? The surgery is
performed on an outpatient basis. A compressive garment must be worn
post-operatively. Most patients resume normal activities in a day or two. Upper
body exercise is not permitted for 4 weeks.
Does insurance pay for this type of surgery? Most insurance plans do not pay
for the surgery at this time. We encourage you to check with your own company to
review their policies.
What do the scars look like? The scars from liposuction alone are very small
and well accepted. More severe problems require direct excision through longer
incisions. The scars from this are placed around the areola and are well hidden
after they fade.
What is the normal post-operative course? A compression garment is placed at
the end of the procedure to reduce swelling. Pain is typically well controlled
with medication. Any swelling or bruising will subside over the first week or
two. The results will continue to improve over the following weeks as any
residual swelling subsides and the skin shrinks to fit the body's new contour.
Normal activities can be resumed after several weeks.
