Breast Reconstruction Surgery NYC
Deciding to undergo breast reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy can be a very overwhelming decision to make on your own. Manhattan plastic surgeon, Dr. Kenneth O. Rothaus and his wonderful staff, are here to support you and help you make a decision that best fits your aesthetic goals.
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is the rebuilding of shape and contour after either the removal of or traumatic injury to the breasts. The reconstruction of the breasts can be accomplished using a prosthesis, the patient’s own tissues, or a combination of the two procedures. Breast reconstruction surgery, for many women, is a final step in their road to recovery and cure. It can significantly improve a woman’s breast appearance, as well as her confidence and self-esteem. A diagnosis of breast cancer, or a traumatic event, does not mean that a woman will never have beautiful breasts again.
Patients may elect to undergo breast reconstruction surgery immediately after their mastectomy or later on in life. Should you choose to undergo this procedure immediately, Dr. Rothaus will need to contact your doctor to devise a treatment plan. Dr. Rothaus and his staff are committed to restoring your confidence and self-esteem by restoring your breasts and natural contours to your satisfaction.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction surgery is performed on breasts that have either been removed due to breast cancer (mastectomy) or have been injured as the result of a traumatic event. In addition, some women are born with birth defects that can lead to obvious flaws within the breasts, including tubular breasts or breasts that are significantly misshapen. Breast reconstruction surgery restores the look and feel of the breasts for a natural appearance.
What Are the Different Methods of Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction can be accomplished by:
- The creation of an autologous tissue flap, which is created using the patient’s own skin and tissue
- The insertion of a tissue expander under the skin to help make room for a breast implant (silicone or saline)
- Autologous fat injections
- A combination of the above
A tissue flap involves moving a section of skin, fat, and muscle from one area of the body to another. The section of tissue may be taken from areas such as the abdomen or upper back. Tissue moved from the abdomen (e.g., TRAM flap) usually does not require an implant to aid in breast shape while tissue moved from the upper back (e.g., latissimus dorsi flap) usually requires an implant.
The tissue expander is a balloon-like implant device that is inserted unfilled at the time of surgery. Over time during office visits, sterile saline fluid is added and the tissues over the expander begin to stretch in a manner which is similar to the gradual expansion of a woman’s abdomen during pregnancy. The tissue expander creates a new breast-shaped pocket for a breast implant. Tissue expansion typically takes three to six months. After the expansion period is concluded, the tissue expander is removed and a silicone or saline implant is placed.
Real Patient Testimonials
I had 2 botched surgeries I thought my breast would never look normal, then i found Dr. Routhaus. (Who was highly recommended) He corrected the problem and I couldn’t be happier. He was very sympathetic to my situation, his knowledge & the options he provided to try and correct my problem put me at ease. I recommend him to anyone that I come into contact with looking to get any type of plastic surgery.
Will I Need Additional Surgeries?
During the reconstruction process, nipple reconstruction is usually performed as a separate procedure after the initial surgery is complete. There are several options to consider; for example, nipple tattooing is a popular option today that looks real and natural.
In addition, whether or not breast implants are used, patients usually undergo additional surgeries on the opposite breast to improve symmetry and appearance. A breast lift, breast augmentation, or breast reduction may be recommended to match the reconstructed breast (symmetry procedure). These procedures would be done so that the contralateral or opposite breast matches as closely as possible to the shape and the size of the newly reconstructed breast.
Reclaim Your Breasts Today
If you are a candidate for breast reconstruction surgery, we encourage you to call our plastic surgery office to learn what your options are. Our surgeon maintains a high standard of compassion for each individual patient with years of experience in the reconstruction process. Rothaus Plastic Surgery serves individuals living in and around New York, Manhattan, Westchester, and the nearby communities of New York.
About Dr. Rothaus
Kenneth O. Rothaus, MD is a board-certified Manhattan and Westchester plastic surgeon offering cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, breast, body, and skin. Educated at Yale College and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Rothaus’ general and plastic surgery training was at the Columbia and Cornell campuses of the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Rothaus values the wants and needs of his patients and strives to give them the best experience possible.
Learn More