What to Expect From Breast Reconstruction After a Mastectomy

Often, women who undergo a mastectomy or double-mastectomy choose to have reconstructive breast surgery done. A mastectomy may severely lower an individual’s self-esteem, so breast reconstruction can be a very positive step towards recovery.

Fortunately, as this area of plastic surgery continues to improve, new medical techniques and devices have made it possible for us to create a breast that comes very close in both form and appearance to a patient’s natural breasts. Upon request, a patient can even pick the “new size” she wishes to become.

Breast reconstruction, especially after a disease like breast cancer, can be very rewarding for both the patient and cosmetic surgery team. At Bergman Folkers Plastic Surgery, our staff aims to make our patients as comfortable as possible by answering any questions and listening to your goals for reconstruction.

The Steps of Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction can be done with either breast implants (silicon or saline), natural tissue flaps, or a combination of both.

Several steps are taken during breast reconstruction surgery and can include the following depending on the type of procedure:

• Anesthesia
• Flap techniques to reposition muscle, fat, and skin
• Tissue expansion to provide coverage for breast implant
• Surgical placement of a breast implant to create breast mound
• Grafting to create nipple and areola

Contact Us

If you have further questions about the breast reconstruction process, our team at Bergman Folkers Plastic Surgery can provide you with the answers you need. Call us today at (515) 222-1111 if you are interested in our services.