Breast Reconstruction

What is a breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction can help restore self-image for patients who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy, or experienced other trauma that has left them displeased with the appearance of their breasts or breast. Breast reconstruction in Abilene, TX attempts to reestablish both the size and shape of a patient’s breast(s) by utilizing one of several methods:

  • Implant reconstruction with tissue expander

  • Implant reconstruction with AlloDerm Select™, which is an acellular dermal matrix (ADM), a soft tissue substitute

  • Autologous tissue flap reconstruction (TRAM, DIEP, SIEA, and Latissimus dorsi)

The method used in a breast reconstruction procedure depends on various factors, including, but not limited to, the type of mastectomy (if applicable), whether a patient is undergoing cancer treatment(s), and a patient’s body type. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Erika Sato has the medical expertise to help patients achieve their goals through any breast reconstruction methods.

What are the benefits?

  • Reestablishing a firm, rounder breast shape

  • Realigning breasts for balance

  • Decreasing the size of areolas

Who is a candidate?

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Procedure Details

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Recovery Timeline

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Results

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FAQs

  • AlloDerm is a carefully processed soft-tissue substitute that can be used when there is not enough muscle present to cover a breast implant. An added benefit of using AlloDerm is that it can allow a plastic surgeon to complete a breast reconstruction with a single procedure.

  • Each insurer and insurance plan is unique, so we cannot answer this with a simple yes or no. However, many breast reconstruction procedures are covered in whole or in part, depending on a patient’s situation. We recommend you contact your insurer or agent to determine what level of coverage you can expect.

  • Many patients elect to combine these procedures to minimize the number of surgeries they must undergo. However, a breast reconstruction can also be performed after a mastectomy has occurred. Every patient must assess, with the advice of Dr. Sato, whether it is best to perform both procedures at once or to perform the breast reconstruction as a separate procedure. Some factors that affect this decision may include non-medical influences, such as a patient’s certainty, or medical reasons, such as the need to continue cancer treatments.

  • While each patient is different, you may experience a return of sensation to a reconstructed breast over time.

  • The average healing time you can expect following a breast reconstruction is three to four months. However, Dr. Sato will discuss specific recovery expectations with you during your consultation and follow-up appointments.

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