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Breast Reconstruction

In Atlanta

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Introduction

Breast Reconstruction

With 1 in 8 women in the United States developing Breast Cancer, the number of women seeking reconstruction is rising quickly. Whether undergoing a lumpectomy (partial breast removal) or a mastectomy (total breast removal), most women should be given the option to undergo reconstruction. Research continues to show increased psychological benefits for women undergoing breast reconstruction after partial or total mastectomy. Women will often feel better after having such an important part of their self becoming restored. By undergoing reconstruction patients can fill out and feel comfortable in their bathing suits, and will not need to wear a breast prosthesis to fill out their bras.

If you are considering Breast Reconstruction surgery, come and see Dr. Brian Arslanian at Arslanian Plastic Surgery in Atlanta, GA. Dr. Arslanian is a Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who specializes in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and is ready to work with you. Find out how Dr. Arslanian can help reconstruct your confidence in your body and well-being with a Breast Reconstruction procedure today.

Gallery

Breast Reconstruction Before & After Photos

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Restoration

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast Reconstruction is a catch-all for a variety of different surgical techniques that Plastic Surgeons can utilize to minimize or reverse the cosmetic abnormalities that occur after these potentially life-saving procedures. 

Over the past decade, the number of immediate reconstructions, vs delaying the procedure until healing after a mastectomy, has been steadily rising. In immediate reconstruction, the Plastic Surgeon is present at the TIME of mastectomy and begins the process of reconstruction at the same time. The benefits of this are that the reconstruction tends to be easier as there is no scarring to deal with. Psychologically, women are much happier and more satisfied as they do not have to experience seeing themselves with no breast(s) and being completely flat-chested. 

As there are numerous options for reconstruction, it is easiest to break it down into broad categories. The two main types of reconstruction are implant-based and tissue-based.

Implant-Based

This is by far the most common method of reconstruction. Most commonly the plastic surgeon will place an inflatable implant, called a tissue expander, in the pocket left behind after the breast is removed. Additional outpatient procedures may be performed to improve symmetry, size, and shape. Fat transfer procedures may be needed to help soften the edges of the implant. Nipple reconstruction is also offered if the patient chooses to complete the entire reconstruction.

Tissue-Based

This is also called autologous reconstruction, which means using one’s OWN tissue to reconstruct the breast. There are MANY variations of this but the two most common sites to borrow tissue from are the abdomen and the back.

This is really something that needs to be determined on a case-by-case basis. Dr. Arslanian will need to review your history and physical exam findings. Things such as a mastectomy, possible radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, your current size and desired size, and concomitant medical problems may all factor into what options are available and what might be the best solution for your circumstance.

What are the benefits of Breast Reconstruction?

There are many ways breast reconstruction in Atlanta can benefit you, which Dr Arslanian takes great care to discuss with his patients. Some of these include: 

  • Recreating breast shape eliminated during a mastectomy
  • Restoring confidence in your femininity
  • Bringing symmetry back to both breasts
  • Ability to fit into clothes and bathing suits with confidence

Talk to us about how breast reconstruction can benefit you, as Dr. Arslanian treats every patient individually based on their own unique circumstances.

Who are the best candidates for Breast Reconstruction?

You may be a good candidate for an Atlanta Breast Reconstruction if:

  • You can cope well with your diagnosis and treatment
  • Have recently had a mastectomy or are scheduled to have the surgery
  • You do not have additional medical conditions or other illnesses that may impair healing
  • You have a positive outlook and realistic goals for restoring your breast and body image

Additionally, it is important to consider the following factors before considering a breast reconstruction: 

  • A reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation or feel as the breast it replaces
  • Visible incision lines will always be present on the breast, whether from reconstruction or mastectomy
  • Certain surgical techniques will leave incision lines at the donor site

Dr. Arslanian will discuss all of the benefits with you during a consultation session, to determine whether this is the right option for you. Having Breast Reconstruction is more than just a physical surgery, it can also impact your mental well-being in a positive and affirming way. 

Some patients may not be good candidates based on their weight, other medical conditions, or extent of disease. We strive to “Do No Harm”, and at times have to turn patients away if reconstructive surgery is just too risky.

First Steps

What’s the first step?

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The first step to getting a Breast Reconstruction in Atlanta with Dr. Arslanian is to schedule a consultation session. During this session, he will explain the process of the surgery and first and foremost, determine your eligibility. Dr. Arslanian will also assess your desired outcomes, as this can vary from patient to patient. Your consultation session is also your opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions you have. 

 Before your procedure, you may be given a list of pre-operative instructions to prepare you for your Breast Reconstruction. These instructions may include fasting for a certain amount of time or avoiding certain medications such as blood thinners. Dr. Arslanian will ask to see images and paperwork from your mastectomy, to ensure he is designing a surgical plan that will benefit you.

What to expect on the day of Breast Reconstruction surgery

On the day of your surgery, Dr. Arslanian will walk you through the techniques he 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 what was determined in your consultation, Dr. Arslanian 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 flap technique used will be discussed and determined by Dr. Arslanian before your procedure. 

For women who choose implant-based reconstruction, a tissue expander is placed. Reconstruction with tissue expansion allows an easier recovery than flap procedures, but it can be a more lengthy reconstruction process. After 2-3 weeks of healing, fluid or air is slowly added to the expander in the office every 1-2 weeks. The expander is filled to the desired size and then the patient will return to the operating room for an outpatient procedure to remove the expander and replace it with a soft, silicone breast implant. Additional outpatient procedures may be performed to improve symmetry, size, and shape. It usually requires several office visits over 1-2 months.

Dr. Arslanian will then focus on the placement of the breast implants. He 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. Dr. Arslanian 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 before sending you home to recover.

Breast Reconstruction recovery

For the first 24 hours post-procedure, you should focus on resting. You will be able to use your prescribed medications to ease tha

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 will be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.

 Your care team 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 and will be advised on the best type of medication to alleviate your pain. Getting back to normal activities may take six weeks or longer. Take it easy during this period. Dr. Arslanian will give you a complete list of what to avoid in terms of movements and activities to help make your healing process as smooth as possible.

 You will also be given instructions on how to care for your wound 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 Dr. Arslanian on a yearly basis to monitor your reconstructed breast after the reconstruction is complete. 

 e discomfort. For the next 7 days, your mobility will be somewhat limited, but you will be required to do a range of motion exercises for your arms. Dr. Arslanian will instruct you on how to massage your breasts to prevent capsular contracture. 

After about 1 week has passed, Dr. Arslanian will remove your dressings and sutures and provide you with instructions on how to wear your surgical garment. At this time, most patients feel comfortable enough to go back to work if they have a sedentary job. Some exercises are allowed 2 weeks after healing, but patients should refrain from heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks.

Breast Reconstruction Cost

How much does a Breast Lift with Implants cost in Atlanta, GA?

 The cost of Breast Reconstruction in Atlanta will vary based on a number of factors: 

  • Type of reconstruction techniques being used
  • Type of mastectomy
  • Cancer treatments
  • Patient’s body type

When you book a consultation with Dr. Arslanian, he will assess your case and design a package that is highly tailored to your needs. Breast Reconstruction is an essential aspect of healing after a mastectomy and Dr. Arslanian and his team want to ensure this surgery is accessible to as many patients as possible. 

Doctor Arslanian | Arslanian Plastic Surgery Atlanta
Doctor Arslanian | Arslanian Plastic Surgery Atlanta

Why choose Arslanian Plastic Surgery?

When you come to Arslanian Plastic Surgery for a Breast Reconstruction, you will be in good hands with Dr. Arslanian and his team. Dr. Arslanian obtained his medical degree from the University at Buffalo and then went on to complete a rigorous training program in General Surgery at one of the prestigious Harvard Hospitals: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. During his residency he discovered his passion for plastic surgery: both cosmetic and reconstructive. He then completed another 3 years of specialized training in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Emory University, an epicenter for plastic surgery in the United States. 

As a Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Arslanian has launched and grown his practice into a busy mix of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to help patients from all over the Metro Atlanta area. Dr. Arslanian’s goal for every patient is to create a beautiful, natural look, using the safest techniques he has learned.

Contact

Schedule a consultation

During your consultation, you will meet with Dr. Arslanian and his staff and have the opportunity to discuss your situation as well as your concerns and goals. Dr. Arslanian will take detailed measurements of your breasts and body and perform a complete examination. Photos will be taken to help Dr. Arslanian point out certain things and explain his approach to breast reconstruction. If you are deemed a good candidate, he will discuss the various options for breast reconstruction and make sure you are happy with your decision. He will also show you photos of other patients before and afters to help determine what size and look you are trying to achieve. His number one concern, however, will always be your safety.

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Breast Reconstruction FAQ’S