Breast Reconstruction
For many women, breast reconstruction is the culmination of their breast cancer battle. They want to pursue reconstruction as soon as possible and decide to begin the process at the same time they have their mastectomy surgery. Others choose to concentrate first on the cancer treatment itself, then proceed with reconstruction afterward.
Dr. Rios will be happy to discuss your reconstruction timeline and more with you. Click for your free consultation with him now.
No matter the timing, many women in the U.S. who have mastectomies do ultimately choose to have breast reconstruction surgery. The reasons are diverse. Some decide to undergo reconstruction to boost a body image which has been battered by relentless medical tests and procedures. For others, a leading motivator is the chance to wear the clothes they choose without having to deal with the hassle of prostheses. And many see reconstruction as an important milestone—a way to mark the completion of a round of medical treatment and the start of a new, healthy life.
There are aspects of breast reconstruction you'll want to learn about and some decisions to make. That's why it's important to consult a physician before you have your mastectomy; a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Rios who is experienced in breast reconstruction in the Naperville and Joliet areas.
Even if you should decide to wait until after your mastectomy to start the reconstruction process, Dr. Rios can help you get the information you need to be well prepared for this next phase of your journey.
Call one of his offices to set up your free consultation:
| Joliet: 815-744-8554 | Frankfort: 815-744-8554 |
Breast Reconstruction in Joliet and Naperville
Unlike the majority of cosmetic surgeons in the greater Chicago metro area, Dr. Rios holds two pre-op consultations with his patients instead of just one. As a breast cancer survivor, you'll appreciate the extra time and attention Dr. Rios devotes to understanding your goals, helping you learn about the options and assisting you through the decision making process.
There are three general approaches to breast reconstruction. The simplest involves using a temporary implant to expand the skin followed by another procedure to insert a permanent implant. Another method, often used when large amounts of tissue have been removed, is to move tissue from the back or abdomen to the breast, passing under existing skin and leaving the "borrowed" tissue attached to the body. Yet another method also borrows tissue from elsewhere on your body but detaches it from its original site and transfers it to the breast area. Many factors — including your breast size, how much tissue was removed during your mastectomy and more — affect which surgical approach is the best avenue for you.
If you want to look as natural as possible, you may opt for nipple reconstruction after your new breast is in place. Nipple reconstruction is most often done in a separate procedure.
Breast reconstruction plastic surgery near Naperville usually requires more than one procedure. As part of the process, you may elect to have Dr. Rios perform a breast reduction or breast lift on your other breast to help ensure the two match as much as possible. Your insurance should cover these procedures.
Realistic expectations are the keys to success of your breast reconstruction. Dr. Rios wants you to know that your new breast will probably not look just like your natural breast. You won't be able to return exactly to your pre-mastectomy body. But you will have the opportunity to look and feel balanced, whole and shapely again.
After Your Breast Reconstruction
Recovery from breast reconstruction depends on the approach you and Dr. Rios select and the procedures involved. No matter which breast reconstruction method you choose, Dr. Rios will ensure you are well prepared.
You'll know how long your entire process should take and what happens at each step. You will know what to expect in terms of pain and soreness and how to manage it with prescription and/or over the counter medication. You'll hear about the impact of your procedures on your strength and energy level, and how you may need to restrict your activities for a period of time. You'll know what to do if you have any questions or experience any problems along the way.
As you heal, you should give yourself some time to adjust to the changes your body is experiencing. Though your new breast may be a welcome addition, it will be different than the breast you lost. It may take some time for your new breast to feel as much a part of you as your cancer journey itself.
Breast Reconstruction Risks
Some of the risks of breast reconstruction depend on the procedure. With the implant approach, the risks are similar as those for breast augmentation. In the reconstruction procedures involving tissue flaps, there is a small amount of risk that the flap will not attach to its new site successfully. There's also some risk that the area of the body losing the tissue flap will not heal well. In addition to procedure-specific risks, breast reconstruction poses risks typical of any surgery.
A few patients experience outcomes that warrant additional surgery such as undesirable scars or significant breast asymmetry. Whether this will happen to you is difficult to forecast since it involves healing processes which are inherently unpredictable. Dr. Rios will ensure you understand all risks related to your reconstruction.
If you are healthy, at or near your normal weight and don't smoke, your breast reconstruction process should go smoothly and give you the new shape you're hoping for.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
When it comes to Joliet and Naperville plastic surgeons for your reconstructive procedure, we recognize that you have a choice. Dr. Rios is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He has extensive experience with breast reconstruction and he's looking forward to working with you. Send an email to one of our greater Chicago metro offices or click for your complimentary breast reconstruction consultation in Joliet or Frankfort.