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Breast Reconstruction Surgery
A mastectomy can be a life-saving procedure. Whether you have removed part of your breast while fighting cancer or as a preventative measure, the results can still be challenging to deal with. However, with breast reconstruction, Dr. Brent Moelleken provides patients with a way to regain confidence in their appearance.
What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction aims to restore your breasts after one or both have been removed for health concerns. There are two ways to go about breast reconstruction: flap reconstruction and implant-based reconstruction.
The decision to go with either option can depend on several factors, including the availability of donor tissue. During your consultation and initial examinations, Dr. Moelleken will work with you to determine which type of procedure will be best for you.
Flap Breast Reconstruction
This type of reconstruction uses the body’s own tissue as the foundation for rebuilding your breasts. Dr. Brent takes tissue from elsewhere on the body and uses it to provide the structure for your new breast.
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
As the name implies, this method uses a breast implant to provide shape and structure for your breast. No tissue is taken from other parts of the body, and the procedure focuses exclusively on the chest.
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Consultation
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310.273.1001
Beverly Hills
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805.898.9299
Santa Barbara
Am I a Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Patients who are candidates for breast reconstruction have either had or will soon have a mastectomy. Most patients who undergo breast reconstruction have already had a mastectomy. However, there is also the option to have both procedures at the same time. Dr. Brent Moelleken would work with a breast surgeon, combining their skills to accomplish both procedures at once.
We recommend that patients be in good health, especially for flap reconstruction candidates. This type of procedure is more physically demanding than implant-based reconstruction.
A good candidate will also have health expectations and be ready to commit to the reconstruction process. For most patients, it takes several procedures to deliver final results. The number of procedures you will need depends on factors such as:
- Your mastectomy
- The type of reconstruction
- Target breast size and shape
Breast Reconstruction Recovery
Rebuilding your breast is a process that takes time, patients, and endurance. We understand that it can be both physically and emotionally taxing on patients. That’s why Dr. Moelleken does everything in his power to provide support during recovery.
The initial healing period will be about 1-2 weeks for patients. If you had flap reconstruction, this will take longer since you have two surgery sites recovering. During this time, Dr. Moelleken will provide you with a full list of instructions. It is crucial to adhere to these to make sure that your recovery goes smoothly.
Recovery basics will include drains and wraps to manage fluid around the surgery sites. Dr. Moelleken will provide full information on how to use both.
The Path to a New You
The rest of the major healing process can last about 6-8 weeks. However, this can vary depending on your individual procedure. Flap procedures generally take longer to heal, whereas implant-based ones are faster.
Once about two months have passed, you should be able to return to your usual routine. However, depending on how your healing is going, there may still be limitations.
The total time to heal can last 1-2 years. What is vital during this time is to be aware of your body and its limitations. If you have any questions about what activities you can engage it, Dr. Moelleken will gladly answer them.
Healthy Expectations
One of the most important things for a patient to have is healthy and realistic expectations. Dr. Moelleken will keep you fully informed throughout the process. He will make clear what you can expect from the reconstruction procedure. And, he will let you know what also might not be possible.
Recovering from breast reconstruction is much more than simply physical. For many patients, there is an emotional adjustment period as well. Our advice to you is that you are not alone. During this time, it is vital to have a means of emotional support. For many patients, a partner can provide this. For others, there are support groups aimed specifically at cancer survivors.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Surviving cancer or preventing it with a mastectomy are victories. However, life afterward can be significantly changed. With breast reconstruction, you have a way to rebuild your confidence in your appearance. Take the first step toward regaining your feminine beauty by scheduling a consultation today.
Dr. Moelleken, plastic surgery Beverly Hills, has performed countless breast procedures, using his skill and experience to help patients meet their goals. During your consultation, you will find someone who is dedicated to bringing the best out of his patients. Every step of the way, he will keep you informed. If you are ready to take back your body, call us today.
