PROCEDURES / BREAST RECONSTRUCTION​

Breast Reconstruction in New York

Breast reconstruction surgery can help women restore their self image, regain their confidence, and feel more comfortable when they’re dealing with breast cancer treatment. As you consider your options, you’ll want to work with a practice that offers an experienced surgical team and a knowledgeable patient coordination staff to help.

Harris Plastic Surgery is one of the best options for breast reconstruction in New York because we offer both the clinical and administrative support you need.

Approaches to Breast Reconstruction

Your breast reconstruction needs will change depending on the type of cancer surgery you’ve had and whether radiation was involved. Radiation can affect the timing of your surgery as well as the type you can have. Very broadly, there are two types of breast reconstruction surgeries:

  • Implant-based breast reconstruction: This surgery is just what it sounds like—an implant is placed to provide shape, volume, and symmetry to the breasts.
  • Tissue-based breast reconstruction: Tissue-based breast reconstruction involves using the patient’s tissue to create a new breast mound.

The choice between tissue-based and implant-based breast reconstruction depends on the patient’s individual needs, anatomy, and desired outcome as well as the surgeon’s expertise and recommendations.

There’s also another component of breast reconstruction to consider, and that’s timing. Breast implant surgery used to be completed in stages; however, advances in medicine have allowed us to offer direct-to-implant options as well.

Direct-to-Implant

Direct to Implant

Direct-to-implant (DTI) reconstruction is a type of breast reconstruction surgery that involves placing a breast implant immediately after the mastectomy, without the need for tissue expanders. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the breast tissue and creates a pocket for the implant in the chest. Then, the implant is placed in the pocket, and the incisions are closed.

Staged Reconstruction

Staged Reconstruction

In this multi-stage process, the surgeon places an expander to create a pocket where the permanent implant will go. The expander is gradually increased with saline solution over the next few months to stretch the skin and soft tissue. Once sufficient room has been created, the permanent implant is inserted.

Pros

  • Fewer surgeries
  • Faster recovery
  • More immediate results

Cons

  • Implant size limitations
  • Not suitable for all cases

Pros

  • More natural result
  • Less scarring
  • More implant size options

Cons

  • Longer recovery
  • Multiple surgeries
  • Increases risk of complications

The type of surgery you will have will depend on the specific aspects of your case. A thorough consultation with our office can help you make the right decision. 

Why Choose Harris Plastic Surgery for Breast Reconstruction in New York?

Harris Plastic Surgery has been considered a top option for breast reconstruction in New York for decades. Our team is led by Dr. Stephen Harris, a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast reconstruction and revision reconstruction surgeries. He specializes in breast reconstruction after mastectomy, correction of post-lumpectomy breast deformities, and more, having treated thousands of patients throughout his highly respected career.

On the administrative side, our team is led by Joanne Parrinello. Joanne has worked with many patients to get them the coverage they are entitled to for their breast reconstruction surgeries under New York and federal law. The Women’s Health and Cancer Act of 1998 requires health insurance carriers to provide coverage for this type of surgery, though the steps aren’t always straightforward. New York also has regulations regarding breast reconstruction surgery coverage, but again, the legalese can be tricky to navigate. Having handled hundreds of these cases from an administrative side, Joanne understands the ins and outs of insurance coverage and can quickly guide you to the right decision for your care.

Our team at Harris Plastic Surgery is the best option for breast reconstruction in New York because it’s not just about the procedure with us—we focus on your total well-being and ensure that you have a stress-free experience.

If you'd like to learn more about breast reconstruction services in our New York office, contact the Harris Plastic Surgery team!