About Breast Reconstruction
Surgical breast reconstruction is performed to restore form and function to the chest following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It may also be used to restore the chest or breasts if the patient is insecure about a birth defect or physical trauma. Advanced options in reconstructive surgery make it possible for breast cancer patients to feel complete and have breasts that look natural and boost your self-confidence. This surgery may involve several procedures at different stages that may either be performed along with your cancer treatment or delayed until the treatment is complete. At the Institute for Reconstructive Surgery, our advanced training in microsurgery enables our skilled surgeons to perform advanced techniques improving the outcomes and quality of life for our patients in Houston, Sugar Land and the greater Texas areas.
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Ideal Candidates
Reconstruction of the breast(s) is a very personalized surgery. Every patient will receive an in-depth consultation appointment with the surgeon of their choice to decide on their surgical plan and learn about their treatment options. Our skilled team will help you make informed choices based on your concerns and aesthetic goals. At the Institute for Reconstructive Surgery, we strive to get you back to the moments in life that have nothing to do with cancer. As microsurgically trained surgeons, we are able to offer neurotization options to qualified patients, potentially restoring sensation to their new breasts providing them the opportunity to feel a hug from a loved one.
Surgical Technique
Breast Reconstruction techniques and options have advanced significantly over the years. At the Institute for Reconstructive Surgery, many of our surgeons were one of the first to perform advanced techniques such as DIEP Flap and ReSensation in the Houston, TX area. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss all of your options with you to ensure you are able to make an informed decision about your care. We will then work very closely with other members of your care team such as your breast surgeon and oncologist to provide a collaborative care approach. Our most commonly performed breast reconstruction techniques include:
- Flap-based breast procedures (DIEP Flap, TRAM Flap, LAT Flap, TAP Flap, SGAP Flap)
- Lumpectomy reconstruction
- Implant-based reconstruction including direct to implant reconstruction
- Lymphedema
- Neurotization (ReSensation)
- Breast Reconstruction Revision
- Nipple tattooing and Nipple Reconstruction
What to Expect
Surgical breast reconstruction is a very personalized procedure. Depending on your reconstruction plan, there may be multiple steps and/or surgeries involved. We tailor a detailed plan to each individual patients needs and goals. We will discuss in depth what to expect at each step of the process. We will also provide you with direct contact information to ensure we can answer questions in a prompt timeframe.
Reconstructed and Renewed
Although the process of breast reconstruction can take time, it's considered one of the most beneficial surgeries for women with breast cancer. It may help improve the emotional and physical impact of a mastectomy or lumpectomy while also allowing you to boost your self-confidence and regain a high quality of life. If you have breast cancer, have had an injury to the chest, or have a congenital defect that affects the appearance of your breasts, we encourage you to contact one of our office locations and schedule your consultation with one of our highly skilled breast reconstruction surgeons.