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Breast Reconstruction (Breast Cancer)
Breast reconstruction restores breast shape after cancer treatment using a thoughtful, individualized reconstructive approach for Las Vegas patients and survivors.
MODEL
Breast
What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Procedure Overview: Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that rebuilds t
Breast reconstruction restores breast shape after cancer treatment using a thoughtful, individualized reconstructive approach.
Procedure overview
Reconstruction after mastectomy · Restoring breast shape after cancer · Symmetry between breasts · Personalized reconstructive planning
Dr. Reynolds’ approach
Dr. Reynolds approaches reconstruction with sensitivity to each patient's cancer journey, coordinating timing and technique to restore shape and symmetry. He focuses on compassionate, individualized care throughout recovery.
What this procedure may help address
According to Susan G. Komen research, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. In 2012, it was estimated that 1.7 million new cases of breast cancer occurred worldwide. All insurances will cover breast reconstruction surgery following breast cancer, as well as cover procedures to provide symmetry to the contralateral side (if only one breast was affected). It is important for patients suffering from the devastating results of breast cancer to know all of their options.
Tissue Expander/Implant Reconstruction
The most common option chosen for reconstruction is the implant-based breast reconstruction. Following the mastectomy, a tissue expander is placed under your skin and muscle. A tissue expander functions to stretch the chest skin to create a pocket in which to place an implant. Once the pocket has been expanded to the desired implant size, the patient undergoes a second surgery in which the tissue expander is removed and replaced with a permanent implant that is softer and looks more natural. This reconstructive technique may also be used to correct breast volume asymmetry following a lumpectomy.
Autologous Reconstruction
In cases where the chest wall skin is inadequate to cover an implant, such as a breast that has radiation damage, there are procedures that can move healthy skin into the breast region for reconstruction. The TRAM flap surgery moves fat and skin from your stomach to your breasts. This procedure usually allows for enough fat transfer that the breasts look full.
The latissimus muscle and overlying skin can also be used in breast reconstruction. It is dissected as a “flap” and rotated onto the chest to create a new breast. In most cases, this is not enough volume and so an implant is used to augment the volume to the desired size.
Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
In many cases, the nipple is not spared for reconstruction. The nipple shape can easily be recreated using the skin on your breast. After the newly formed nipple, many patients will have the areola coloring tattooed.
Breast Cancer Support Groups
If you or a loved one is suffering from breast cancer, it is important that you have the necessary support in this uphill climb. Some may have family, friends, or other co-survivors who are closely involved in the process while others may not. Either way, there are many options close by to help you through this time and we would be happy to provide you with a list of local support groups.
For more information, please call us at 702.410.9800 or fill out our consultation form and we will contact you to answer any questions and set up an appointment for you.
Consultation / what to expect
A consultation is the best way to determine whether [Procedure Name] is right for you. During your visit, Dr. Reynolds will discuss your goals, answer your questions, review your anatomy, and explain the options that may be appropriate.
You will also have the opportunity to review relevant before-and-after examples and discuss what kind of result feels realistic for your needs.
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