Breast reconstructive surgery aims to restore as fully as possible the normal appearance and function of the breast prior to the medical trauma.
Reconstructive surgery of the breast is often used to address structural concerns that develop due to a medical condition or trauma.
For example, after a woman undergoes breast cancer surgery like a lumpectomy or mastectomy, or after suffering some other injury or trauma to the breast that results in loss of volume or shape, she may elect to undergo breast reconstruction to address the tissue loss.
Atlanta breast reconstruction specialist, Dr. Nicholas Jones, is known for his compassionate bedside manner in addition to his expert skills and experience. As a double board-certified Atlanta plastic surgeon, Dr. Jones has performed countless breast reconstruction procedures for satisfied patients in the greater Atlanta area and beyond.
In many cases, the psychological impact of surviving breast cancer or undergoing some other illness or trauma to the breast can take a toll on a woman’s self-esteem. It may affect how we perceive ourselves regarding our intimate relationships, how well our clothes fit, and how comfortable we feel in social settings.
Studies have found patients who undergo a lumpectomy or mastectomy often struggle with mental health issues like depression and decreased self-image following cancer treatment. Many feel less attractive and some report that their intimate relationships are affected. Breast reconstruction can help a woman rebuild her self-esteem as well as her quality of life following medical trauma to one or both breasts.
Breast reconstruction can restore a natural appearance to your breasts so you can wear bathing suits, low-cut necklines, and any other clothing that you were accustomed to wearing prior to your mastectomy or lumpectomy. While the goal is restoring your natural appearance, this will depend largely on the condition of your breasts following your mastectomy. In some cases, your new breasts may not identically resemble your former breasts.
In cases where the nipple has been lost or relocated, nipple reconstruction surgery may be required to achieve a more natural appearance. While all Atlanta breast reconstruction procedures vary because they are customized to each patient, normal sensation in the nipple may be spared in some circumstances.
In many cases, yes, but it depends on various factors. Because the mammary glands are specifically responsible for milk production, a woman’s ability to lactate depends on how much glandular tissue she has in her breasts, even prior to undergoing breast surgery.
Depending on the condition of your breasts following your mastectomy and how much glandular tissue is retained, you may still be able to produce breast milk after a breast reconstruction procedure. It’s possible that in some cases, a woman may not produce a full supply of milk and may choose to supplement with bottle feeding, particularly if it’s her first baby. In cases where large amounts of mammary gland tissue have been lost to the mastectomy or lumpectomy, it is likely that a woman’s ability to breastfeed may be impaired.
If you’re seeking a trusted and respected plastic surgeon to perform your breast reconstruction Atlanta double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Nicholas Jones, is known locally and nationally for his excellence in aesthetic surgery.
Dr. Jones works closely with all his patients to understand each individual’s unique needs and concerns and help each individual achieve their aesthetic goal. Contact our friendly office today at (404) 777-TUCK to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jones, or fill out the online consultation request form.
To obtain the best possible results, patients should plan for their breast reconstruction procedure even before they go in for the lumpectomy or mastectomy. Ideally, your oncologic surgeon who will perform the mastectomy and Dr. Jones, who will perform the breast reconstruction surgery, should be in contact and communication with one another.
In many cases, breast reconstruction may actually be performed simultaneously with a mastectomy, thus reducing a woman’s psychological and emotional trauma over the loss of her breasts, while also reducing the risk and recovery time associated with having multiple surgeries and exposure to anesthesia.
Breast Reconstruction is typically accomplished by means of breast enhancement procedures like breast augmentation surgery. Breast augmentation may be accomplished either through breast implants or through natural fat grafting, a treatment that uses fat harvested from another area of the body to increase the size of the breast.
The most common reconstruction involves implants. In some instances, an implant can be inserted at time of the cancer operation. However, most patients require a tissue expander to stretch the skin out and after 4 - 6 weeks, the expander can be exchanged for a breast implant.
Some patients are not candidates for breast implants and may need an autologous reconstruction (using your own tissue). During your visit for breast reconstruction surgery Atlanta plastic surgeon, Dr. Jones, will have an open discussion with you in which you can discuss your wishes and the options available to you. Dr. Jones is skilled in breast surgery and will work to sculpt a natural-appearing breast closely resembling your natural breasts.
In some cases, the nipple and areola may have been damaged or removed during the mastectomy or lumpectomy, and in other cases, the nipples may have to be relocated and re-sculpted to achieve a more natural-looking appearance. In these instances, Dr. Jones may recommend you combine nipple reconstruction with breast reconstruction to optimize the natural appearance of the breast in a single surgical session.
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia, and you must be prepared to undergo a suitable recovery period to heal from the procedure optimally. When you go home from your surgery, you will need help with basic household chores so you can rest for several days to recover properly.
Initially, after the procedure, you can expect to experience soreness, swelling, and bruising that may last for as long as two to three weeks. While all individuals are different, most women return to normal daily activities within two months following surgery, although Dr. Jones may advise you to wait longer before doing strenuous or vigorous activities.
Come visit Dr. Jones and our team and let us help you achieve the spectacular look you deserve!
3280 Howell Mill Rd NW, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30327
