Breast Reconstruction
Surgery on Long Island

Breast reconstruction surgery is a highly personal, transformative procedure that rebuilds the shape and look of a breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Surgeons utilize advanced surgical techniques and personalized care for breast reconstructions and aim to restore a woman’s confidence and body image. Breast reconstruction surgery uses implants or autologous tissues to reform the breast mound and not only enhances physical appearance but also improves emotional healing, helping women feel whole again and empowered after their breast cancer treatment.

Good candidates for breast reconstruction surgery include any woman who has undergone a mastectomy (either prophylactic or after cancer diagnosis) or lumpectomy who wants to restore her breast’s appearance. Regardless of whether you’re planning an immediate reconstruction post-breast surgery or considering reconstruction years later, there are options like implants or autologous tissue transfers to give you the new breasts you want. Ideal candidates are women in good overall health (cancer diagnosis notwithstanding) who don’t smoke and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of surgery.

With breast reconstruction surgery, you can regain your confidence and self-image while restoring your breast’s shape and symmetry. The procedure can be done immediately after a mastectomy as one back-to-back surgery or delayed until a later date when your other treatments are complete. Recovery involves some downtime, with initial swelling and discomfort that can be managed through medication. You will have follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure optimal results and healing, but most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks, feeling more confident and whole. Breast reconstruction surgery not only enhances your physical appearance but also significantly boosts your emotional well-being after the whirlwind that follows a cancer diagnosis or positive genetic screening.

Dr. Stephen Harris is the best choice for your breast reconstruction surgery because of his unparalleled expertise and compassionate approach. He has years of experience and is dedicated to mastering cutting-edge techniques to deliver exceptional, natural-looking results tailored to each of his patient’s unique needs. He is committed to patient care and ensures a supportive and comfortable experience from consultation through recovery, so you never feel alone during this process. Choose Dr. Harris for an experience that restores not just your breasts but your self-confidence and empowerment.

Like all surgeries, breast reconstruction surgery, while generally safe, carries some risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, and issues with wound healing. There is also the possibility of implant-related problems, such as rupture or capsular contracture, which would require a secondary revision surgery. For women who choose autologous tissue reconstructions, risks include tissue necrosis and complications at the donor site. Additionally, asymmetry or dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome can occur, sometimes necessitating revision surgeries. Discussing these risks with your surgeon from the outset of treatment is crucial to making informed decisions and ensuring the best possible outcome for your appearance and health.

Breast Reconstruction surgery is performed by plastic surgeons trained in the latest implant technology and in microsurgical techniques. The two main options for rebuilding the breast mound are implants or autologous tissue transfers. For implant-based reconstructions, a tissue expander or silicone implant is placed in the mastectomy space, often in front of the pectoralis muscle, or prepectoral. Autologous tissue reconstructions involve transferring tissue from another part of the body, like the abdomen (DIEP flap) or back (latissimus dorsi flap), to create a new breast mound. Breast reconstruction surgery can be done immediately following a mastectomy (including prophylactic mastectomies) or delayed until after other treatments are complete. Surgeons meticulously shape the skin and transfer tissue or implants to achieve symmetry between breasts and your body and create a natural appearance. Breast reconstruction is often followed by nipple reconstruction and areola tattooing for the final aesthetic touches.

Your recovery from reconstruction surgery will depend on several variables, like your health prior to surgery and your support network while you are healing. While the recovery process for breast reconstruction surgery varies, it typically involves a few weeks of rest and limited activity. Initially, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. You will likely have drains placed in your new breasts to remove excess fluid, which are typically removed within a week or two. Many women can resume light activities after a few weeks, but you will need to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about six weeks. You will also need to make sure you go to all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing and address any concerns quickly. That way, you can have a smooth recovery with optimal results for your health and appearance.