New York Breast Reconstruction

With today's surgical advances, women who lose a breast to mastectomy now have more reconstructive options available to them. Manhattan Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. Donald Roland uses the newest medical techniques to create a breast that is similar in appearance and form to the natural breast.

Breast reconstruction refers to several techniques which can be used to reconstruct the breast following removal due to mastectomy. Reconstruction is often performed at the same time as mastectomy so that patients can awaken with a reconstructed breast. However, some women prefer to postpone reconstruction until months or even years after their mastectomy.

Dr. Roland performs breast reconstruction procedures in one of the desirable hospitals or outpatient facilities in the New York City area. There are many different techniques available for reconstruction including skin expansion with the insertion of an implant and flap reconstruction. In most cases, the reconstruction is performed in stages to first create the breast mound then later recreate the nipple areola complex and perform balancing work on the opposite breast with follow-up procedures. Dr. Roland will discuss all of the options available to you during consultation at his Manhattan office and help you to decide on the best approach for your individual needs.

As with all types of surgery, breast reconstruction procedures can result in some swelling, bruising and discomfort. Surgical drains may be applied after surgery, but these are generally removed within one to two weeks. Recovery can take up to six weeks.

Commonly Asked Questions Concerning Your Breast Reconstruction

What can breast reconstruction do for me?

Breast reconstruction can help women who have lost a breast to cancer and mastectomy by reconstructing a natural-looking breast. This may be performed at the same time as mastectomy or several years later and often involves a variety of techniques performed in stages.

Am I a good candidate for breast reconstruction?

The best candidates for breast reconstruction have had their cancer eliminated as best as can be determined by mastectomy and are now looking to restore a natural looking breast. It is also important that candidates have realistic goals that they have discussed with their plastic surgeon.

How is breast reconstruction performed?

Breast reconstruction involves several techniques which are often performed in stages, first to create the breast mound and later to address elevation of the nipple areola complex as well as balancing of the other breast. Some techniques may be performed under general anesthesia and others under local anesthesia. These techniques may include skin expansion with the insertion of an implant and flap reconstruction.

What is the recovery from breast reconstruction like?

The recovery following breast reconstruction will depend on the particular technique used. As with any surgery, however, some welling, bruising and discomfort may result. Surgical drains are often inserted after surgery and these may remain in place for one to two weeks.

Dr. Roland will advise you when you can resume activities after your breast reconstruction as he monitors your recovery during your visits in his Manhattan office. However, the total recovery may take up to six weeks.

What are the risks of breast reconstruction?

Although rare, post-operative complications from breast reconstruction surgery are possible and these may include infection, bleeding, hernia, and poor healing. There are certain risks associated with the use of implants, such as capsular contracture and implant rupture. Flap reconstruction may also result in tissue necrosis.

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Hours by Appointment at:

52 East 72nd Street, Suite 1A New York, NY 10021		80 Wall Street, Suite 615 New York, NY 10005
Tel: (212) 744-9400 Fax: (212) 744-9424		Tel: (212) 952-0200 Fax: (212) 952-0203