Breast Reconstruction

Reconstruction After Mastectomy or Lumpectomy

Not all women with breast cancer choose to undergo breast reconstruction in Pleasanton, but it’s important to explore all options before making a decision. Today’s breast reconstruction surgery techniques can achieve excellent results, especially when a plastic surgeon works alonside your oncologist throughout your treatment.

Breast Reconstruction Benefits

The Procedure

Breast reconstruction can be done during the same operation as your mastectomy or at a later date. There are two basic types of breast reconstruction: tissue flap and implant-based breast reconstruction, which can also be combined. A reconstructive surgery, followed by less extensive revisions, is often necessary to achieve the desired result.

Flap-based Reconstruction

In flap-based breast reconstruction, we harvest fat, skin and muscle from one part of your body (e.g., abdomen, back or buttocks) and move it to your chest to reconstruct the breast. The blood supply to the tissue is either moved or re-established using microsurgical techniques.

Implant-based Reconstruction

During implant-based reconstruction, we insert a saline or silicone breast implant behind the chest muscle. If you do not have enough tissue left following your mastectomy, a tissue expander, similar to a balloon, may be inserted several weeks in advance to slowly help your body create additional skin to allow the use of a breast implant.

Recovery

Recovery time varies depending on the technique performed. When you wake up from surgery, it is normal to experience some bruising, swelling and general discomfort.

You will wear a special bra for a few weeks and use prescription medication to minimize discomfort and your risk of infection. You can gradually resume light physical activity, but should plan at least a one-month absence from exercise and strenuous physical activity.

Learn More

If you’re a candidate for breast reconstruction, we encourage you to contact our office in the East Bay Area. Plastic surgeon Dr. Bachelor provides the highest level of care for breast reconstruction patients, and our staff is extremely attentive to your needs. During a consultation, we can answer your questions and discuss the treatment options that are right for you. Call our Danville or our Pleasanton office at 925-462-3700 to schedule your visit today.

Patients visit us from the local Bay Area, but also the greater state of California and the nation. Most clients come from the east Bay area, but also as from the Tri valley area and beyond, including Lafayette, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Danville, Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, Palo Alto, Mountain View, and San Jose and the Central Valley.