Thanks to advancements in the field of medicine, there are numerous options when it comes to breast reconstruction. However, what might be ideal for someone else might not be the best for you. Nevertheless, Dr. Cusimano can help you make an informed decision. He is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon that creates a unique treatment plan that aligns with your needs. The reconstruction options can be broadly categorized into two types: implant-based and tissue reconstruction.
IMPLANT-BASED BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
As the name suggests, this technique uses an artificial implant to rebuild the breast. We can further split implant-based breast reconstruction into three types.
1. TRADITIONAL IMPLANT RECONSTRUCTION
In traditional reconstruction, the surgeon places breast implants under the chest muscles, creating an incredibly natural look. To create space for the implant, the surgeon may place an inflatable tissue expander for about three to four months, increasing the size at intervals of two to three weeks.
2. PREPECTORAL IMPLANT RECONSTRUCTION
In contrast with traditional reconstruction, the pre-pectoral procedure involves placing the implant over the chest muscle. Consequently, it requires a shorter recovery period, and post-operative pain is considerably less. In addition, this procedure causes little to no muscle deformity.
3. DIRECT-TO-IMPLANT RECONSTRUCTION
This technique takes a “one-step” approach, implying that you get a breast reconstruction immediately after mastectomy. Therefore, it reduces the number of visits to the surgeon, decreasing recovery time and overall cost.
BREAST RECONSTRUCTION USING BREAST TISSUE
As opposed to implant-based reconstruction, Dr. Lukas Cusimano can also use your body tissue for reconstruction. Similarly, there is a range of options to choose from, as outlined below.
ABDOMINAL FLAP (DIEP)
A DIEP flap reconstruction uses tissue from the abdomen for reconstruction. This procedure might not be ideal for someone who has undergone certain abdominal surgeries.
THIGH FLAP (PAP/VPAP/LTP)
A PAP flap is a muscle-sparing procedure, in the sense that no muscle is used. Instead, the process uses the PAP blood vessel, a section of skin, and fat from the patient’s inner thigh. A VPAP, on the other hand, is similar to a PAP flap, only that the surgeon makes a vertical incision on the inner thigh to get a long flap of skin. During an LTP, the surgeon removes a flap of skin from the saddlebag area. It is ideal for women without sufficient belly fat needed for reconstruction.
BACK FLAP (TDAP)
During this procedure, the surgeon rotates or completely removes a flap of skin from the back. Since this procedure is muscle-sparing, it results in quicker and easier recovery.
BUTTOCK FLAP (SGAP)
As the name suggests, a buttock flap tissue reconstruction surgery uses a blood vessel, skin, and fat from the upper buttock for reconstruction.
LUMPECTOMY AND BREAST REDUCTION
While receiving breast cancer treatment, some patients might prefer foregoing a mastectomy to save their breasts. In such cases, the alternative surgical treatment option is a lumpectomy. In this procedure, the tumor is removed, as well as some surrounding healthy tissue, to prevent leaving any trace of cancer cells. Right after the tumor is removed, the surgeon can commence breast reduction. If only one breast is receiving cancer treatment, the surgeon reduces tissue in the other breast to achieve symmetry.
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION
Like any other surgical procedure, breast reconstruction requires precision and care. In addition to being a board-certified reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Cusimano has both precision and care. Better still, he pays close attention to patient care and recovery. Facing the reality of needing breast reconstruction isn’t something you have to face on your own. Schedule your consultation with Cusimano Plastic Surgery today to find out how we can help you. Give our office a call at 225-230-8069 or complete our online contact form.