Breast reconstruction cosmetic surgery can be performed using few safe and proven techniques. The steps in the breast reconstruction procedure vary depending on the method used and whether the procedure is conducted at the same time with mastectomy.
Prudent, considerate, and board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify provides breast reconstruction to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding locations in this region of the country.
Anesthesia
Breast reconstruction surgery is a major procedure involving the use of general anesthesia. The patient will be unconscious during the surgery and will not feel pain or remember anything about the procedure later on. The patient’s past medical records and any allergies to specific drugs will be assessed before the anesthesia is administered.
Incisions
The surgeon will start breast reconstruction plastic surgery after the anesthesia has been administered. They will place the incisions discreetly and precisely in pre-determined locations of the chest. The surgical technique used will determine the area and size of the incisions.
The flap reconstruction technique involves moving the tissue between locations and will involve more incisions. The implant technique will require a lesser number of incisions. The recovery and scarring will depend on the size and number of incisions placed, and the surgical method used.
Creating a New Breast
The development of the breast mound through the flap or implant technique is determined during the surgical planning stage.
Implant reconstruction
Breast reconstruction using implants happens in multiple stages. First, a balloon expander is placed under the chest muscle and skin to enlarge this region. Then, fluid is added to the balloon expander in the following weeks and months to extend the skin adequately enough to hold an implant. After the skin is sufficiently stretched, silicone or saline implants are inserted.
In some cases, these two steps can be carried out simultaneously. Permanent skin expanders can take the place of implants, eliminating the need for the second phase of the surgery. The surgeon and patient will collaborate closely to establish the most appropriate treatment strategy.
Flap reconstruction
This method involves removal of surplus tissue from the donor location and replacing it to the breast area. The blood vessels in the tissue that is relocated will be attached to new vessels in the breast region. This new tissue is used to create the new breast mound. Sometimes an implant may be placed along with flap reconstruction, particularly where a larger sized breast has to be created.
Sutures and Bandages
After the creation of a natural appearing and symmetrical breast mound, the surgeon will close the incisions using sutures and then dress the area with bandages. In addition, the surgeon will provide instructions to the patient or her caregiver regarding the bandages and sutures to minimize the risk of infection.
The patient should avoid pressure or strain in the areas of incisions for approximately six weeks to ensure a fast and safe recovery.
In case the surgeon has used traditional sutures, these will be removed in about a week or ten days post-procedure. Adroit and standout cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and other towns and cities in this section of SoCal for breast reconstruction.
Committed and remarkable cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and other towns and suburbs in The Golden State for breast reconstruction surgery.
See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.