Breast Reconstruction Surgery

If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, you are not alone. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a woman in the US is diagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes. Breast reconstruction is often used to restore one or both breasts to normal shape, appearance and symmetry, after going through a procedure like a mastectomy, lumpectomy or congenital deformity.

In addition to the physical surgery, this procedure is often a very sensitive an emotional journey. The compassionate and experienced team at SSM Health can guide you through the process and help you determine the right option.

Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

To help you begin navigating this journey, keep in mind the following questions when meeting with your breast reconstruction surgeon:

Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
What will be expected from me to achieve the best results?
How will the procedure be performed?
How long will the recovery period be, and what kind of help will I need?
What are the risks or potential complications, and how would those be handled?
Are there before-and-after pictures of similar procedures?

What to Expect from Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is performed in stages and often includes multiple steps. In some cases, reconstruction can begin at the time of your mastectomy, or could be postponed until a later date.

Types of Breast Reconstruction

The type of breast reconstruction you choose is also important. There are two main categories of breast reconstruction:

Implant reconstruction

Implant reconstruction relies on breast implants to help form a new breast mound.

Autologous or “flap” reconstruction

This type of reconstruction uses your own tissue from another part of the body to form the breast. Flap procedures results in reconstructed breasts that look and feel more natural.

With many different techniques available for breast reconstruction, it can be hard to know to which one is best for you, your body, and your unique circumstances. The SSM Health team understands that post-mastectomy breast reconstruction can be an emotionally difficult and personal experience. Our doctors and staff strive to educate, guide, and support you through the entire reconstruction process.

DIEP Flap Procedure

One advanced technique that uses your own tissue is the DIEP flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator flap).

At SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital - Oklahoma City, we are proud to offer this advanced form of breast reconstruction. DIEP refers to the name of the blood vessels that supply the flap; this procedure uses state-of-the-art technology to reconstruct and restore your breasts by taking the skin and fat from your lower abdomen – while still preserving your muscle — to reconstruct your breasts.

Following a mastectomy, we often must “borrow” from your abdominal muscle structure, typically causing some abdominal weakness afterward as may occur with the TRAM flap (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutanous Flap). Unlike the TRAM flap, the DIEP flap procedure transplants the lower abdominal tissue to the chest and leaves your abdominal muscle behind so that you will have a lower risk of hernias and bulges.

Other benefits to a DIEP flap include less post-operative pain and a shorter recovery time. Recent studies have shown that women who undergo a DIEP flap may have lower narcotic usage during the post-operative period and a shorter recovery when compared with women who have undergone breast reconstruction with tissue expanders or the TRAM flap.

Certified Mastectomy Fitting

Once your breast cancer surgery has been completed, the care SSM provides does not stop there. SSM Health at home has been offering mastectomy fitting services to breast cancer patients that have had mastectomy surgeries. Their certified mastectomy fitter is available on an appointment basis. Their products include:

Silicone and non-silicone prostheses (both temporary and final)
Enhancers
Post-reconstructive/mastectomy surgical bras and camisoles
Prosthetic nipples
Swim forms

Staff is available to assist with verifying insurance and billing coordination. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at 608-276-3945 or 800-924-2273.

Breast Cancer Reconstruction Consignment Closet

(offered for breast reconstruction patients only)

SSM Health Plastic Surgery has teamed up with SSM Health at Home to offer a consignment closet offered at the Plastic Surgery office. Products are offered to patients at weekly follow up appointments to help them through the recovery process. Products include:

Silicone and non-silicone temporary prostheses
Post-reconstructive/mastectomy surgical bras and camisoles

Staff is available to assist with verifying insurance and billing coordination at the time of your appointment.

Breast Cancer Reconstruction Consignment Closet
2275 Deming Way
Suite 240
Middleton, WI 53562
608-821-4020

3D Nipple and Areola Tattooing

SSM Health is partnering with Shade Tattoo Studio, to offer 3D nipple and areola tattoos after breast cancer reconstruction surgery. Please call 608-821-4020 for further information.

Recovering from Breast Reconstruction Surgery

The recovery process will differ not only from person to person, but also depends on which type of reconstruction you choose. It is crucial to take care of yourself during this time and allow your body to heal.

Your physician will provide you with specific instructions for your recovery. We’re here to help you should you have any questions. Your post-surgery guidelines may include:

How to care for the surgical site(s)
Medications to apply or take orally
Specific concerns to look out for
When to follow up with your surgeon

This process can seem daunting emotional, but our compassionate physicians and staff are here to be with you every step of the way. Contact us today if you would like a second opinion or to set up a consultation.