Archive for the ‘Mastectomy’ Category
Breast Reconstruction Options
Thursday, April 28th, 2011
Mastectomies remain a common and necessary surgical solution in many cases of breast cancer. Fortunately, reconstructive surgery techniques can restore much of the natural shape and appearance to the breast area following a mastectomy. In this cosmetic operation, a plastic surgeon rebuilds the breast to make it appear as natural and beautiful as possible. At The Peer Group in northern New Jersey, our board certified plastic surgeons include specialists who have performed reconstructive breast surgery for women throughout the region. We believe women should learn about breast reconstruction before they have a mastectomy, so they can include knowledge of this procedure in their treatment decisions
Several plastic surgery methods can be used to rebuild the breast, and this cosmetic plastic surgery procedure should be tailored to meet the needs of each individual. The methods include a breast implant, a tissue expander, or a skin or muscle flap. A breast implant involves inserting a silicone or saline solution implant in a cavity created beneath the muscle and skin of the chest. In the tissue expansion method, a reconstructive plastic surgeon places a balloon-like implant beneath the muscle and skin. The balloon is expanded with injections of a saline solution over a period of a month or two. After the skin has expanded sufficiently, the expander is replaced with a permanent breast implant. Flap reconstruction is performed using muscle, fat, and skin, usually taken from the back or abdomen, areas of the body that contain very large muscles, providing enough skin and muscle for reconstruction of a breast on the chest wall.
Many women are very pleased with the results of breast reconstruction following a mastectomy, attaining new breasts that look and feel natural. If you or anyone you know is facing a mastectomy, we think talking to a qualified plastic surgeon about reconstructive surgery should be part of your treatment protocol. Our plastic surgeons at the Peer Medical Group, serving Short Hills, Chester, Summit and surrounding areas of northern New Jersey, are available to any all your questions about cosmetic and reconstructive surgery options.
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