Breast reconstruction is an important step in restoring a woman’s appearance and self-confidence after undergoing a mastectomy to treat breast cancer. If you are facing the possibility of a mastectomy, contact Glamour Plastic Surgery and Med Spa to schedule an appointment with Dr. Olga Bachilo, a leading plastic surgeon in the area of breast reconstruction in the Houston area.
Breast Reconstruction After Cancer in Houston, TX
Surgery Overview
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AnesthesiaGeneral
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Surgery Length Varies
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Recovery TimeVaries
Breast Reconstruction Surgery Video
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OVERVIEW
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PLANNING
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OPTIONS
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RECOVERY
OVERVIEW
Breast Reconstruction Goals
Breast reconstruction surgery specifically aims to restore natural-looking breasts in patients who have had one or two breasts removed as a result of cancer or another illness. The goal of the procedure is to restore the breast tissue so that it resembles the patient’s natural bust line. Breast reconstruction surgery can significantly improve a woman’s physical appearance as well as her self-confidence and quality of life. But it is important to maintain realistic expectations, because your reconstructed breasts may not actually look and feel identical to your natural breasts, and in many patients, the reconstructed breast may experience decreased sensitivity or sensation.
PLANNING
Planning for Breast Reconstruction Surgery
The best time to begin planning for your reconstruction is as soon as you’re diagnosed with breast cancer. It is important for your surgical oncologist to work closely with your plastic surgeon in order to develop an ideal treatment plan for you.
Most mastectomy patients are good candidates for reconstruction, and many actually opt to have reconstruction surgery during the same surgical appointment as the mastectomy. It is important, however, to determine whether all traces of cancer have been eliminated by the mastectomy.
Some women instead choose to wait and undergo reconstructive surgery at a later date. There may be many reasons for this, including health conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure, or smoking, or simply because the reconstruction may involve a complex series of procedures.
Breast reconstruction often involves multiple surgical procedures. The first surgery is usually the most complex or comprehensive procedure, whether it is performed on the same day with the mastectomy or at a later date. Follow-up procedures may be less complex. Each reconstruction treatment is unique and tailored specifically to each patient’s unique condition.
OPTIONS
Options for Breast Reconstruction
There are several options available when performing breast reconstruction. Breast reconstruction may be performed either using the skin expansion technique, or by means of flap reconstruction, and may require the insertion of a silicone or saline implant or a natural transfer of fat from your own body. Most reconstruction procedures combine skin expansion with the insertion of a breast implant. Dr. Bachilo will be happy to discuss these options with you to determine which one is most suitable for you.
As for areola reconstruction, paramedical permanent makeup techniques can be used to create a naturally-looking areola.
RECOVERY
Recovery After Breast Reconstruction
Depending on the extent and complexity of your procedure, you will typically be discharged from the hospital within two to five days following surgery. Plan to have someone drive you home and provide assistance around the house for a few days while you recover. It is normal for you to feel tired and sore for a week or two after undergoing breast reconstruction surgery, and Dr. Bachilo will prescribe appropriate medication to alleviate any discomfort.
If surgical drains are used to help excess fluids drain more efficiently from surgical sites, these will be removed about one to two weeks after surgery, and most sutures will be removed in 7 to 10 days; however, full recovery may take as long as six weeks after a combined mastectomy and reconstruction. If your implants are inserted without the need for flaps, and your reconstruction surgery is performed separately from the mastectomy, this recovery period may be somewhat shortened, but you should still plan to allow your body sufficient time to properly rest and recover.
While breast reconstruction surgery may not be able to restore normal breast sensation, some sensation may return gradually once your body heals completely. Scars will also fade away after a year or two, becoming barely visible over time.
Dr. Bachilo will provide detailed instructions on when you can begin a gentle exercise regimen and resume your usual physical activities. Typically, we advise breast reconstruction patients to avoid activities that require lifting, as well as sex and strenuous exercise, for about three to six weeks after your procedure.
What's Next?
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to have Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Many patients choose to have Breast Reconstruction immediately following their Mastectomy, sometimes even during the same surgical session. The important thing is to make certain that all cancer has been safely removed from the breast tissue before the Reconstruction can take place. Your oncologist and plastic surgeon together can help you make this important decision.
Can I have Breast Reconstruction Surgery at the same time as I have the Mastectomy?
In many cases yes, the Reconstructive surgery may be performed at the time of the Mastectomy during the same surgical session. Your oncologist and plastic surgeon will have to come to an agreement on this.
Will Breast Reconstruction Surgery increase the size of my breasts?
No. The goal of Breast Reconstruction surgery is to reconstruct the damaged breast to achieve a similar size and appearance to your natural breast.
How do I know which type of Breast Reconstruction I need?
During your introductory consultation with Dr. Bachilo, she can explain the different types of Breast Reconstruction procedures and which one would be most suitable for your circumstances.
How much does Breast Reconstruction cost in Houston,TX?
Per the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average fee for a plastic surgeon performing breast reconstruction surgery in the United States should be between $3,000 and $4,000; however, when you include the cost of anesthesia, the cost of the medical facility, and additional miscellaneous expenses, the actual total cost may come to somewhere between $5,000 and $8,000 per breast.
Can I combine Breast Reconstruction Surgery with another procedure?
Yes. You may decide to increase or alter the shape of your breast with Breast Augmentation or Breast Reduction, or to combine a Breast Lift with Breast Reconstruction Surgery. In some cases, you may also choose to combine the Breast Reconstruction procedure with a Body Contouring or other surgical procedure.
Who is the best Breast Reconstruction surgeon in the Houston area?
Among the best breast surgeons in Houston, Dr. Olga Bachilo at Glamour Plastic Surgery and Med Spa stands out as being one of the area’s most reputable and trusted plastic surgeons. Her patients recommend her enthusiastically and their testimonies confirm her excellence as a plastic surgeon.
Will health insurance cover the cost of Breast Reconstruction?
Breast Reconstruction procedures are typically covered by health insurance carriers when they are deemed medically necessary, and this applies whether the Reconstruction is performed immediately following the Mastectomy or Lumpectomy, or whether you choose to do it years later. Medicare typically covers the cost of breast reconstruction, while Medicaid coverage may vary between states. In Texas, Breast Reconstruction performed as a consequence of a medically necessary mastectomy is covered by Texas Medicaid in cases where the client is eligible for Texas Medicaid at the time that the Breast Reconstruction procedure is performed.
Will I need more than one operation to complete my Breast Reconstruction?
In some cases, Breast Reconstruction may not be fully completed in a single procedure and additional surgeries may be necessary. During your consultation with Dr. Bachilo, she can explain the precise type of Breast Reconstruction that is most suitable for your condition and inform you as to how many surgeries it may take.
How long do the results of Breast Reconstruction last?
Typically, whether you choose breast implants and skin flap reconstruction, both procedures are designed to last for many years. In fact, breast implants usually come with a lifetime warranty. Breast Reconstruction surgery provides long-lasting results and many patients remain happy with their Breast Reconstruction outcomes for decades following the original procedure.
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