What is Breast Reconstruction?
Many women diagnosed with breast cancer survive through the painful and grueling experience, but may have to lose all or part of their breasts. Partial removal is known as a lumpectomy, while full removal is called a mastectomy. For women who have undergone either of these procedures, breast reconstruction at The Cosmetic Institute in Los Gatos, CA, can help. With the compassion and expertise of Dr. Howard S. Sutkin, patients throughout the region have been able to recreate the size and shape of their natural breast and renew their sense of wholeness, beauty and femininity. We welcome women from Los Gatos, San Jose, Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, Saratoga, Sunnyvale, Campbell and beyond to put their breast reconstruction in our capable and caring hands.
Los Gatos Breast Reconstruction: Before and After Pictures
When you attend your initial consultation at The Cosmetic Institute, ask to see our gallery of Los Gatos breast reconstruction before and after pictures. You can get a better idea of the results that are possible with the procedure, as well as get a glimpse at Dr. Sutkin's stellar work.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is not typically chosen for strictly cosmetic purposes. Our Los Gatos breast reconstruction patients usually have lost one or both breasts (or a partial breast) and want to restore their chest to a more normal shape, size and appearance. The surgery can help recapture a woman's feminine figure while establishing a more even breast line. Breast reconstruction may be combined with an initial mastectomy, or performed at any time after the initial procedure. If you are a smoker, it is important that you quit two weeks prior to the surgery.
How is Breast Reconstruction Performed?
The most common breast reconstruction procedure at our Los Gatos facility involves gradually expanding the skin until it is able to accommodate an implant. A balloon expander is inserted under the chest muscle; over a period of weeks, it is expanded by injecting a saline solution through a tiny valve. Once the skin has stretched sufficiently, Dr. Sutkin removes the expander and replaces it with a permanent implant. A separate operation reconstructs the nipple and areola. In some cases, no tissue expansion is required and the permanent implant can be inserted during the initial reconstructive surgery.
Our breast reconstruction in Los Gatos can also be accomplished through a technique called flap reconstruction. This alternative method involves creating a flap of skin using tissue taken from another part of the body, such as the abdomen or back. The flap is affixed to the chest area, creating a pocket for an implant. In some cases the flap, which can consist of skin and tissue still attached to its blood supply, is used to build up an actual breast mound.
When you undergo breast reconstruction, it will generally involve multiple procedures, almost always performed under general anesthesia. The initial surgery will take place in a local hospital, while follow-up procedures are often done on an outpatient basis.
What Can I Expect After Breast Reconstruction?
Following the surgery, our Los Gatos breast reconstruction patients typically experience some fatigue and soreness for several weeks. Medication can relieve post-reconstructive surgery conditions such as bruising, swelling and discomfort. Patients can expect to return home in two to five days.
When undergoing breast reconstruction or any type of reconstructive surgery, complications are rare, but can include implant leaks, infection, fluid loss or gain, bleeding and a reaction to the anesthesia. Fortunately, our Los Gatos facility is equipped to prevent breast reconstruction complications. For example, in the rare instance of a leak, our saline implants will not cause a dangerous reaction, as only the water solution is escaping. The most common complication is capsular contracture, which is a tightening of the scar or capsule around the implant. Should this happen, Dr. Sutkin will remove the scar tissue, or take out the implant and replace it. To maximize the success of your reconstructive surgery and to minimize the risk of complication, Dr. Sutkin and his skilled medical team will give you specific instructions for surgical preparation and postoperative care.
What is the Cost of Breast Reconstruction in Los Gatos?
Breast reconstruction costs in Los Gatos are generally covered by insurance. If not, the prices can range dramatically, depending on whether donor tissue or breast implants are used. You can find more detailed information during your initial meeting with Dr. Sutkin.
If you are interested in learning more about breast reconstruction in Los Gatos and the techniques used by Dr. Sutkin, please contact our office today. Breast reconstruction is one of most rewarding procedures we offer to our patients. We encourage women from Los Gatos, San Jose, Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, Saratoga, Sunnyvale, Campbell and outlying areas to set up a consultation. The staff at The Cosmetic Institute is always grateful to be a part of your healing process.
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