Are you considering breast reconstruction surgery for yourself or your loved one? Although the procedure is highly beneficial for treating the consequences of breast cancer, it’s still not suitable for everyone. There are many things to learn and consider before deciding on such a big step, and we are here to help. We provide all the information about breast reconstruction in Scottsdale, including the pros and cons of the procedure and recommendations for the best plastic surgeon in Scottsdale.
If you have any initial questions or want to learn more about your options for breast reconstruction in Scottsdale, feel free to reach out to Dr. Rimma Finkel. You can call our office at (480) 963-3034 or contact us online.
Breast reconstruction surgery is part of the breast cancer treatment meant to rebuild the shape and look of the breast. Women who have had a mastectomy (a surgery to remove an entire breast to treat or prevent breast cancer) have an option to reshape and rebuild the removed breast. The procedure is usually performed after the mastectomy when the patient is fully healed, but it is sometimes combined with initial breast-removal surgery as well.
In general, there are several ways to perform breast reconstruction and they all include rebuilding the breast mound and/or a nipple and areola. Doctors recommend the best option depending on each patient’s needs. Some women don’t need breast reconstruction. The procedure is mainly recommended when there’s breast deformity as a result of the cancer surgery (e.g. dimpling of the breast tissue).
There are two main techniques for reconstructing the breast:
If you opt for implants as part of your breast reconstruction procedure, keep in mind there are two methods you can choose from.
There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to opt for prepectoral or subpectoral breast reconstruction. Always consult your doctor to find out which method is best suited for your needs.
Related Article: Subpectoral VS Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction Surgery
It’s important to have an idea of what to expect after breast reconstruction before you decide to go through it. Just like any other surgery, this one comes with possible risks and side effects (you’ll find these in detail below). By knowing which these are and how to respond, you can go through the recovery faster and easier.
Keep in mind that the recovery after breast reconstruction depends on the type of surgery and the patient’s condition. Most women begin to feel better after a couple of weeks and can return to regular activities within several months. It’s best to ask your doctor for accurate estimates because he or she knows your general health condition and other specific information.
Secondly, talk to your doctor about how to take care of yourself after the surgery. You should prepare for the procedure beforehand, especially because you’ll need some assistance and support in the first couple of days, maybe even weeks. It’s always a good idea to enlist the help of a close friend or family member who can help take care of you as you recover.
There are many benefits to breast reconstruction procedures, but the most important one is the physical and emotional balance it provides. The procedure helps patients feel better by increasing their confidence after a mastectomy. By restoring symmetry, shape, and size of breasts, the reconstruction surgery ensures aesthetically pleasing results and helps patients feel better about their appearance.
Thanks to the new techniques in breast reconstruction, plastic surgeons can perform the procedure with fewer risks for the patients. Now more than ever, breast reconstruction is known to reduce downtime, scarring, and side effects. However, just like any other surgery, this procedure comes with some risks and complications you should keep in mind.
Here are some of the most commonly reported side effects of breast reconstruction in Scottsdale.
Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about any of these side effects. Be sure to talk about any conditions you have that may worsen these side effects.
Getting breast reconstruction in Scottsdale is a big decision, and we know it can be overwhelming to make this choice. We want you to feel informed and well-prepared to make a decision. That’s why we’ve compiled some of the most common questions and answers related to this procedure.
There is no one answer to this question because it depends on a variety of factors including your health and recovery time. Most patients wait to get breast reconstruction until after they are fully recovered from a mastectomy. Some patients choose to get breast reconstruction roughly 6 – 12 months after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Others opt to get breast reconstruction immediately following a mastectomy. If you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, you should wait until you are completely finished with those treatments. You should always consult your doctor to see when the right time is to get breast reconstruction in Scottsdale.
It all depends on the type of breast reconstructive surgery you had and your general health condition. Most women recover fully after several weeks or months. After several days spent in the hospital, you’ll be released for in-home recovery. You’ll likely feel tired and sore for a week or two and need medication for controlling pain and discomfort. Also, you might need some support before you heal completely and get ready to return to your usual routine.
It’s important to have everything you need for recovery ready before you even get the procedure. That way, you can rest as soon as you get home without worrying about any more preparations. First, make sure you have someone who can drive you to and from the hospital. Once you’ve secured a ride, set up a comfortable place to rest. Ideally, this should be a bedroom or foldout couch with plenty of room. If possible, try to remain on one floor of your home so you don’t have to worry about climbing stairs. You can even prepare some healthy snacks and entertainment to keep you busy when you are in between rest. It helps to have someone (like a trusted friend or family member) check up on you or even stay with you for the first few days.
Yes, breast reconstruction is a major surgery that requires the patient to stay several days in the hospital. Both implant and flap reconstruction demand weeks of rest and recovery. Also, people may need more than one surgery to fully reconstruct the breast.
As we mentioned above, breast reconstruction comes with risks and side effects common for any surgery type. There’s always a risk of infection, swelling, bleeding, and other complications. However, when you choose a reliable plastic surgeon, you run a lower risk of developing these symptoms. If you’re looking for a trustworthy and experienced plastic surgeon for breast reconstruction in Scottsdale, we have just the perfect one to recommend.
No, you do not have to get breast reconstruction done if you choose not to. This procedure is completely optional. Many patients decide to get this procedure as a way to return to normalcy after a mastectomy. However, some patients feel that they do not want to undergo any further surgeries. It’s important to feel confident in ourselves, and a large part of that has to do with how we feel about our bodies. No one should force you to make a decision one way or another; the choice is yours.
Finding the right surgeon can be an overwhelming process. You should start by searching for qualified surgeons in your area, specifically those who specialize in breast reconstruction in Scottsdale. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, do some research to make sure your surgeon is board-certified and has the necessary qualifications. You can then check local reviews and ratings to see the level of quality you can expect from your options.
In addition, you can ask your surgeons the following questions to get a better feel for his or her level of experience:
Dr. Finkel is your number-one option for breast reconstruction in Scottsdale. Double-board certified and with vast experience in the industry, she is more than qualified to perform any plastic and cosmetic procedure. Along with reconstructive and aesthetic services and injectables, Dr. Finkel and her team provide a high level of care and attention for each patient.
Dr. Finkel is there to discuss all your needs and requirements regarding breast reconstruction and provide you with much-needed professional advice. After thorough consultations and preparations, you’ll come out with the best surgical plan for your situation and the most satisfying breast reconstruction results. Call us today, schedule a consultation, and start working on your breast reconstruction plan with one of the best Scottsdale breast reconstruction surgeons.
I believe confidence is at the center of how we present ourselves to the world; the way we carry ourselves says so much about who we are and is such an important emotional factor in anyone’s life. Although your outward appearance shouldn’t define who you are, it can often hold us back from living our life to the fullest. A simple Breast reconstruction procedure to fix part of your body that may cause you insecurities can catapult you into new dreams and give you the courage to face your fears. I want to help you live your best, most confident life and love the skin you’re in.