Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is performed after surgical mastectomy. The reconstruction of the breast can be accomplished using either a prosthesis, the patients own tissues, or a combination of the two procedures. Patients who elect reconstruction with a prosthesis usually require expansion of the overlying skin and muscle using a saline prosthesis known as a tissue expander. This is most commonly placed at the time of the mastectomy (immediate breast reconstruction). Several months later, under a local anesthesia with sedation or a general anesthesia, the tissue expander is removed and a permanent prosthesis (saline or silicone) is placed. This second procedure is most commonly performed on an outpatient basis.

Reconstruction of the breast with the patient's own tissues is called autologous reconstruction. The most popular donor site for the tissue for the reconstruction is the abdomen. Skin, fat, and muscle from the abdomen are transferred on their blood supply to form the reconstructed breast. This procedure is known as a TRAM flap. This stands for transverse rectus abdominis flap. This is a longer surgical procedure and has more complications and risks associated with it than does the prosthetic reconstruction of the breast.

Reconstruction of the nipple and areola complex are done under a local anesthesia usually on an outpatient basis in the doctor's office. A breast augmentation, mastopexy, or reduction is often performed on the breast on the other side (contra lateral breast). This is known as the symmetry procedure.

The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only after a personal consultation. The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Please e-mail us at infoplstc@RothausMD.com or call us at 212.737.0770 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rothaus.

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