What is prepectoral breast reconstruction?

Prepectoral breast reconstruction involves placing the implant above the chest muscle (pectoralis), directly under the skin, after a mastectomy. This method contrasts with previous reconstruction techniques where the implant was placed beneath the muscle.

Who is a candidate for prepectoral breast reconstruction?

Candidates for prepectoral reconstruction typically include women who have healthy skin and sufficient tissue thickness post-mastectomy. It’s particularly suitable for those undergoing nipple-sparing mastectomy or women who want to avoid the discomfort associated with placing implants under the chest wall.

What are the benefits of prepectoral reconstruction?

Benefits include less post-surgery pain, a more natural look, faster recovery, and the elimination of complications related to placing the implant under the muscle, such as animation deformities where muscle flexing causes the implant to move.

What are the potential risks of this procedure?

Risks include the standard surgical risks such as infection or capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant). Additionally, if there’s not enough skin or tissue coverage, there could be a risk of implant visibility or rippling, these can be corrected by fat grafting at a later date.

How is prepectoral breast reconstruction different from subpectoral reconstruction?

In a prepectoral reconstruction, the implant is placed above the pectoralis muscle, while in a partial subpectoral reconstruction, the implant is placed beneath it. Prepectoral reconstruction tends to have less post-op discomfort, but a subpectoral placement may be recommended if additional tissue coverage is needed for a natural look.

How long is the recovery period?

Recovery from prepectoral reconstruction is typically shorter and less painful than subpectoral reconstruction. Many patients can resume light activities within a week, with full recovery usually taking 4-6 weeks.

Will prepectoral reconstruction look natural?

Yes, prepectoral implants are designed to give a natural breast shape and appearance. The use of advanced techniques and support materials, like acellular dermal matrices and fat transfer, help create a smooth contour and minimize implant visibility.

Can I have a prepectoral reconstruction if I need radiation therapy?

Yes, however radiation therapy can increase the risk of complications with implants, such as capsular contracture or implant failure. If you need radiation therapy, you can discuss with your plastic surgeon all the alternatives which will include immediate or delayed prepectoral breast reconstruction, partial subpectoral implant placement, or the use natural tissue flaps.

Is prepectoral reconstruction more painful than other types of reconstruction?

Prepectoral reconstruction is generally considered less painful than traditional subpectoral reconstruction because the implant is placed over the muscle, avoiding muscle dissection and associated post-operative healing. Patients report less tightness and chest muscle discomfort post-surgery when the implant is placed above the chest muscles.

Can prepectoral implants be combined with fat grafting?

Yes! Fat grafting is often used in conjunction with prepectoral reconstruction to enhance the breast’s contour at the northern pole and provide additional tissue coverage over the implant, resulting in a more natural look and feel.

What materials are used to support prepectoral implants?

An acellular dermal matrix, or similar biologic mesh, is typically used to provide support and coverage for the implant. These materials help integrate the implant into the body and create a natural-looking breast contour.

Are there any long-term considerations with prepectoral implants?

As with all implant-based reconstructions, there is a possibility you might need future revisions or replacements, particularly if you end up with complications like capsular contracture or implant shifting. Regular follow-ups with your plastic surgeon will help monitor the condition of your implants over time.

Can I opt for prepectoral reconstruction if I've already had a different type of reconstruction?

In some cases, women who have had subpectoral implants or other types of reconstruction may be able to transition to prepectoral implants. This would depend on factors like how healthy your tissues are, what your previous surgeries were, and your overall breast shape and desired outcomes. This alternative is especially useful in women who have pronounced animation deformity or chronic tightness after partial subpectoral implant reconstruction. Contact Harris Plastic Surgery if you have more questions about revision breast reconstruction surgical options.

Mommy Makeover Surgery on Long Island

Motherhood is a journey, in both the emotional and physical senses. While children are often the source of immense joy, the activities of pregnancy and childbirth that precede those bouncing bundles tend to leave lasting marks on a woman’s body.

Beyond scars or stretch marks, many women long to return to their pre-pregnancy shapes, boost their confidence, and, in some cases, relieve physical pains and discomforts that result from being pregnant and giving birth. A Mommy Makeover is a customized set of cosmetic procedures designed to restore comfort and help you reclaim a sense of self. This comprehensive approach is more than just aesthetic—it’s about empowerment, self-care, and feeling comfortable in your skin.

What Is a Mommy Makeover?

A Mommy Makeover combines different surgical procedures that typically focus on the breasts and abdomen, as these areas reflect the most dramatic changes during pregnancy. The most common procedures include:

Mommy Makeover Surgeries
Procedure	Why We Love It
Tummy Tuck *(Abdominoplasty)*	Removes excess skin, tightens abdominal muscles, and enhances core strength.
Breast Augmentation	Restores lost breast volume and enhances shape using implants or fat transfer.
Breast Lift *(Mastopexy)*	Raises sagging breasts for a more youthful appearance
Breast Reduction	Reduces excess breast tissue to alleviate discomfort and improve proportion.
Liposuction	Removes stubborn fat deposits to refine body contours.

Since every woman’s body and goals are unique, Mommy Makeovers are highly customizable. Performing all the procedures together in one surgery helps to reduce your overall recovery time and costs.

More Than Cosmetic: Medical Benefits & Insurance Coverage

While Mommy Makeovers are typically elective cosmetic surgeries, in many cases, your surgeon can pair some procedures with medically necessary surgeries that may qualify for insurance coverage.

Tummy Tuck & Umbilical Hernia Repair: Women who develop umbilical hernias due to pregnancy can pair a tummy tuck with a procedure for hernia repair, which may be covered by insurance.
Breast Reduction & Lift: After childbirth, excessively large breasts can cause chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain. If a breast lift is combined with a medically necessary breast reduction, insurance may cover the reduction portion of the procedure.

Empowerment Through Transformation

The decision to undergo a Mommy Makeover is deeply personal. Some women pursue these procedures to regain confidence, while others want relief from the physical pain of pregnancy-related changes. The goal isn’t about conforming to anyone else’s beauty standards but your own – it’s about feeling strong, confident, and comfortable in your body. Many patients report improved posture, an easier time with physical activities, and an uplifted sense of self-esteem after their transformation.

Timing

Best done after you’ve had your last child and you can maintain a stable weight

Recovery

Expect 2-6 weeks of healing, depending on the specific procedures you choose

Cost

Varies based on procedures and facility/surgeon. Financing options may be available

Insurance

Some aspects, like hernia repair or breast reduction, might be covered as medically necessary

A Mommy Makeover = More Than a Cosmetic Change

Reclaim your confidence, comfort, and strength after childbirth. For many women, addressing these physical changes can be a powerful, life-enhancing decision. Whether the motivation is aesthetic, functional, or both, a Mommy Makeover offers a path to feeling like the best version of yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mommy Makeover

What is a Mommy Makeover, and am I a good candidate?

A Mommy Makeover combines cosmetic procedures to address changes in the breasts and abdomen after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight changes. Procedures may include a tummy tuck, breast lift, breast augmentation, breast reduction, or liposuction. You may be a good candidate if you are in generally good health, at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations for your results.

How much does a Mommy Makeover cost, and does insurance cover any part of it?

The cost of a Mommy Makeover can range from $8,000 to $30,000+, depending mostly on which procedures are performed. Most cosmetic portions are not covered by insurance. However, insurance may cover certain medically necessary procedures performed at the same time, such as a qualifying hernia repair.

Can a Mommy Makeover be combined with hernia repair, and what portion may insurance cover?

Yes, hernia repair can sometimes be performed during a Mommy Makeover when it is medically appropriate. Insurance may cover the medically necessary portion of the hernia repair, while the cosmetic procedures and associated costs generally remain the patient’s responsibility. Coverage depends on your diagnosis and insurance plan.

What procedures can be included in a Mommy Makeover?

A Mommy Makeover is customized to your concerns and may include a tummy tuck, breast lift, breast augmentation, breast reduction, liposuction, or other body-contouring procedures. Not every patient needs or benefits from every procedure.

How do I know which Mommy Makeover procedures are best for me?

The procedures best for you depend on the changes you experienced during pregnancy and your personal goals. Dr. Harris will evaluate your breasts, abdomen, skin, muscle tone, and areas of excess fat before recommending a customized combination of procedures. The goal is to address your specific concerns rather than follow a one-size-fits-all approach.

Can a Mommy Makeover repair diastasis recti, an umbilical hernia, or C-section scar concerns?

A tummy tuck can repair abdominal muscle separation, known as diastasis recti, and can often address certain umbilical hernias when appropriate. It can also remove a low abdominal C-section scar along with excess skin, although the exact result depends on the location of the existing scar. Dr. Harris can assess these concerns during your consultation.

How long should I wait after pregnancy or breastfeeding before having a Mommy Makeover?

It is generally best to wait until you have finished having children for the time being and your body has had time to recover from pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your weight should also be stable, and any changes in breast size or shape should have settled. Dr. Harris can recommend the appropriate timing based on your individual circumstances.

Is it safe to combine multiple procedures during a Mommy Makeover?

Combining procedures can be safe for appropriately selected patients, but it also increases the extent and duration of surgery. Dr. Harris will consider your overall health, the procedures being performed, and your individual risk factors when determining which procedures can safely be combined.

How long does Mommy Makeover recovery take, and when can I return to normal activities?

Recovery depends on the procedures performed. Patients undergoing a tummy tuck with breast surgery and/or liposuction generally need several weeks to fully recover. Light activities such as desk work can usually resume sooner, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are restricted during the initial healing period. Dr. Harris will provide a personalized recovery timeline.

Can I get a Mommy Makeover if I plan to have more children?

You can have a Mommy Makeover before having additional children, but a future pregnancy can stretch the abdominal skin and muscles and change the breasts again, potentially affecting your results. For this reason, many patients choose to wait until they are finished having children. Dr. Harris can discuss the potential benefits and tradeoffs based on your plans.

Are you considering mommy makeover surgery in Long Island?

If you are considering mommy makeover surgery in Long Island, reach out to our office today! Schedule your consultation, or contact us by phone/text if you have any questions for our team.