Aviva
What to expect on the day of Breast Reconstruction surgery
On the day of your surgery, your surgeon will walk you through the techniques they will be using, as discussed in your consultation. First, you will be administered a type of anesthesia so that you do not feel any pain or discomfort throughout the procedure.
Next, depending on your individual needs, your surgeon will use either a flap technique or tissue expansion. Sometimes a mastectomy or radiation therapy will leave insufficient tissue on the chest wall to cover and support a breast implant. The type of flat technique used will be discussed and determined by your surgeon before your procedure.
For women who do not require breast radiation and would like to avoid a separate donor site, implant-based reconstruction is an option. Reconstruction with tissue expansion allows an easier recovery than flap procedures, but it can be a more lengthy reconstruction process.
It usually requires several office visits over 1-2 months after placement of the expander to gradually fill the device with saline through an internal valve to expand the skin.
Your surgeon will then focus on the placement of the breast implants. A breast implant can be an addition or alternative to flap techniques. Surgeons may also use an implant as a temporary placeholder during other breast cancer treatments until they are ready for more involved flap reconstruction techniques. Saline and silicone implants are available for reconstruction.
Your surgeon will help you decide what is best for you.
Finally, the reconstruction of the nipple and areola will take place. For women who are not candidates for nipple-sparing mastectomy, breast reconstruction is completed through a variety of techniques that reconstruct the nipple and areola. Techniques usually involve folding skin to create the shape of a nipple followed by tattooing. Three-dimensional nipple-areola tattooing may be used alone to create the appearance of a realistic nipple with the illusion of projection.
Once the procedure is complete, you will be taken into a recovery room, where our medical team will take care of you.
Aviva
Breast Reconstruction recovery
Following your breast reconstruction surgery, gauze or bandages may be applied to your incisions. An elastic bandage or support bra will minimize swelling and support the reconstructed breast. A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.
Your surgeon will recommend arranging transportation to and from our practice, as you will not be able to drive after this procedure. Before you leave our practice, our medical team will prepare you with instructions and information on what to expect during your recovery and healing period.
You may be tired and sore for several weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to help control your pain. Getting back to normal activities may take six weeks or longer. Take it easy during this period. Your surgeon will let you know of restrictions to your activities, such as avoiding overhead lifting or strenuous physical activities.
You will also be given instructions on how to care for your wound and what to be aware of, the type of pain medication to help manage pain, and how often to check in with your surgeon.
It can potentially take as long as a year or two to feel completely healed. Generally, you’ll follow up with your plastic surgeon on a yearly basis to monitor your reconstructed breast after the reconstruction is complete.
