Breast Reconstruction

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction involves several plastic surgery techniques that attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape, appearance and size following mastectomy.

The results can vary

  • A reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation and feel as the breast it replaces.

  • Visible incision lines will always be present on the breast, whether from reconstruction or mastectomy.

  • Certain surgical techniques will leave incision lines at the donor site, commonly located in less exposed areas of the body such as the back, abdomen or buttocks.

A note about symmetry: If only one breast is affected, it alone may be reconstructed. In addition, a breast lift, breast reduction or breast augmentation may be recommended for the opposite breast to improve symmetry of the size and position of both breasts.

Techniques of Breast Reconstruction

  • Implant reconstruction with saline or silicone

  • Tissue expander reconstruction

  • Placement of allograft with implant or tissue expander

  • Latissimus dorsi muscle reconstruction

  • TRAM Flap reconstruction

  • DIEP reconstruction

  • Nipple/areolar reconstruction

The procedures listed above can be performed immediately during the time of mastectomy or delayed after breast cancer surgery is completed.  Dr. Glafkides works closely with general surgeons to help plan the procedures that will benefit each patient.

Where is it performed?

Breast reconstruction surgery is performed  at any of the hospitals where Dr. Glafkides has surgical privileges. A hospital stay is often necessary. Secondary procedures may be performed at a nearby fully accredited outpatient surgery center.

Anesthesia and Medication

Breast reconstruction surgery requires the use of general anesthesia.

Nipple / Areola Enhancement

 What is nipple/areola enhancement

Nipples that are unusually large (due to genetics or breast feeding) or are inverted or retracted can be resized and reshaped as you desire with little to no visible scarring. Larger nipples can be trimmed to appear more natural and less aged. Flat or inverted nipples can be enhanced or corrected by either releasing scar tissue at the base of the nipple or by inserting a small cartilage stent.

Where is it performed?

This procedure is routinely performed on an out-patient basis, either in Dr. Glafkides’ office or in a nearby fully accredited outpatient surgery center.

Anesthesia and Medication

This procedure is frequently performed under local or intravenous "twilight" anesthesia.