Breast Reconstruction
As many as
50% of mastectomy patients
elect to have breast reconstruction
More than
100,000 mastectomy patients
have had breast reconstruction
The median age is
53 for women
undergoing breast reconstruction
Insurance covers
100% of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy
minus copays and deductibles
When a woman receives a breast cancer diagnosis, she and her family begin a confusing and overwhelming whirlwind tour of doctors’ offices and opinions. One decision to consider is whether to undergo reconstruction of the breast or breasts after a mastectomy.
Forefront physicians are large proponents of breast reconstruction awareness, and we are ready to help you through this difficult time in your life and support you in making some of these complex decisions. Throughout the process we hope to maintain, or to recreate, a positive body image for you, allowing you to move forward in life with confidence.
What to expect during your breast reconstruction consultation
We believe you need to be well informed about the reconstructive procedure in which you are interested, including pre-and post-operative expectations. At your initial consultation, the physician will meet with you about your concerns and aesthetic goals. Feel free to bring in images of looks that you do or don’t like to help us understand your preferences. The surgeon will then examine you and offer a professional opinion on how to achieve your goals based on best practices. Because breast surgery carries a certain amount of risk, your physician will also explain possible complications or adverse events associated with the procedure.
Choosing a surgeon is an intensely personal decision, and we believe the formation of a personal bond is an integral part of the surgery and healing process. We encourage you to take the time to question and get to know the physician and surgical team.
Who is a candidate for breast reconstruction surgery?
Most women are candidates for immediate breast reconstruction, which means the first stage of their breast reconstruction can be performed at the time of their mastectomy. This is often a positive way to continue moving on with life while combining two operations. Some women decide to undergo delayed breast reconstruction, which begins after fully healing from the mastectomy. Again, these decisions can be made with the help of your oncologist, surgical oncologist, and plastic surgeon.
What to expect from breast reconstruction surgery
Breast reconstruction typically involves a series of operations. The initial surgery usually takes two to four hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
Depending on the technique used, there may be one or more procedures to create and shape the “breast mound” of the reconstructed breast. If only one breast has been removed, symmetry procedures may also be performed on the opposite breast as needed. To create the breast mound, the surgeon will perform one of two procedures: Utilizing the patient’s own tissue or inserting an implant.
During autologous breast reconstruction, the surgeon moves skin, fat, and sometimes muscle in the form of a “flap” either from the back (latissimus dorsi flap) or from the lower abdomen (transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap or TRAM) to form the new breast.
Breast reconstruction with tissue expansion involves placing a temporary implant where the breast was and stretching healthy skin over it. After several months and multiple appointments, a permanent implant is then placed within the expanded area. Finally, a reconstructed nipple is created during a minor procedure. The nipple reconstruction is later tattooed to create the surrounding areola.
What is recovery from breast reconstruction like?
The time to recover will depend on the extent of reconstruction. Most patients will spend one or more nights recovering in the hospital before going home. Most women find they are able to resume a non-strenuous work or home schedule within two weeks. Most can return to strenuous activity levels in eight weeks.
Does insurance cover reconstruction surgery?
At this time, federal law mandates that all health insurance companies pay for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. This mandate includes work on the opposite breast to improve the symmetry between the two sides. We will discuss how insurance payments work during your consultation.
Schedule a consultation for breast reconstruction today. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Interested in Breast Reconstruction? Request a consultation with a skin specialist today.
*Treatment options may vary at each location.Please confirm your desired treatment is offered at your preferred location when scheduling. *Age Restriction.
For patients scheduling who are under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama) please make sure you have permission from your parent or legal guardian to schedule this appointment. Your parent or legal guardian must accompany you on your initial visit and on certain subsequent visits to provide appropriate informed consent.