For many women, breasts are an important symbol of femininity that helps define their self-confidence and body image. The emotional affects of an altered appearance can be as psychologically damaging as the condition or injury that caused it. Breast reconstruction serves to restore a woman’s body to its original condition after the treatment of breast cancer.
Please click here, to view before and after images of Breast Reconstruction »
Click here to view animated information on Breast Reconstruction »
Expander Placements
Many women undergoing breast reconstruction choose to use tissue expanders for natural-looking breasts that do not require any flaps or grafts. Through a series of appointments, the remaining breast tissue will be gradually expanded to accommodate an implant. The tissue expanders are placed during the initial procedure, which may be performed immediately after the mastectomy, or several months later, depending on the preference of the patient. They are placed under general anesthesia in a one to two hour procedure, and usually remain in place for four to six months.