Breast Reconstruction Rome, GA
Treatment options for breast cancer include mastectomy, lumpectomy with radiation therapy, adjuvant chemotherapy, and possible long-term hormonal therapy. To better understand their future reconstruction options, breast cancer patients can benefit from a consultation at Horizons Plastic Surgery.
The ultimate goal of breast reconstruction is to achieve symmetry, balance, and improved self-esteem. Each patient has a unique set of circumstances, such as the type of cancer treatment, the shape and size of her opposite breast, previous surgical procedures, and her ultimate goal and expectations for the reconstruction.
In many patients, the reconstructive process can be started at the same time as her mastectomy; this is known as immediate breast reconstruction. For those patients who require radiation or chemotherapy, it is preferable to postpone the reconstruction until completion of treatment. This is referred to as delayed breast reconstruction.
Reconstruction Methods
One popular method of reconstruction involves placement of a tissue expander under the mastectomy incision. During weekly office visits, saline is injected into this device and a new breast mound is developed. Later, the tissue expander is removed and a breast implant is placed in the area.
When soft tissue is insufficient, or when radiation therapy has been administered, local flaps of skin, fat, and muscle can be moved into the area to create a new breast. The most common types of flaps include tissue from the lower abdomen or tissue from the area below the shoulder, on the back.
Once the breast mound has been restored, the nipple-areola is reconstructed. In order to achieve symmetry, additional procedures may be required on the opposite breast. All of these procedures are usually covered by health insurance plans.
Leading Through Collaboration
Dr. Wetherington collaborates with local general surgeons to provide oncoplastic surgical services. Oncoplastic surgery is a modern fusion of breast cancer treatment and simultaneous breast reconstruction. In highly selected cases, the general surgeon and plastic surgeon work together throughout the procedure and the tumor is removed via incisions optimized for the reconstruction. This dual approach allows for optimal skin-sparing treatment for the cancer and improved cosmetic results.
Breast Reconstruction Gallery Rome, GA
