Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure designed to rebuild a breast that may be partially or completely removed after a mastectomy. You can choose to have an immediate reconstruction or a delayed reconstruction.

An immediate reconstruction procedure is performed at the same time as the mastectomy. This proactive approach allows you to wake up from surgery with a restored silhouette. It helps you feel a sense of completeness and can help minimize the emotional impact of breast loss.

On the other hand, you can opt for delayed reconstruction if you prefer a gradual change. This option provides time for healing post-mastectomy, allowing you to focus on recovery before initiating the reconstruction process. It's a thoughtful and considerate approach to rebuilding your sense of self.

Ultimately, whatever type of reconstruction procedure you choose, we’re committed to supporting you through every stage, ensuring a personalized, empowering experience.

The reconstruction process itself may use the following approaches:

• A flap reconstruction, where tissue from select areas like the abdomen or back is meticulously transplanted into the chest
• An implant-based reconstruction, where silicone or saline implants are strategically placed to reconstruct the breast

Tissue Expansion in Breast Reconstruction

At Kimball Health Services, we offer our patients sophisticated breast reconstruction techniques. Tissue expansion is an innovative technique for reconstructing breasts after a mastectomy. It offers patients a natural and personalized outcome.

The tissue expansion process involves gradually stretching the skin and underlying tissues to create a pocket for a breast implant. This process typically occurs over several weeks or months, allowing the body to adapt gradually. 

A temporary balloon-like device, known as an expander, is placed beneath the skin. Saline solution is then periodically injected into the expander, gently stretching the tissue.

Advantages of tissue expansion include:

• Natural-looking results by using the patient's own tissue
• Customizable volume and control over the final breast size
• Preservation of nipple and areola for a more aesthetically pleasing result

Recovery & Postoperative Care

Post-surgery, you'll enter the recovery phase. Our team provides detailed postoperative care instructions to ensure a smooth healing process. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor progress, address any concerns, and adjust the treatment plan if needed.

As you recover and adjust to your transformed self, expect long-term follow-up appointments to monitor the results and address any evolving needs.

Breast reduction is a procedure aimed at reshaping and resizing the breasts for both medical and cosmetic reasons. It can alleviate physical discomfort or heavy breasts and enhance overall appearance.

Breast reduction surgery, medically termed reduction mammaplasty, involves the removal of fat, breast tissue, and skin from the breasts. The procedure addresses various issues associated with the challenges of having disproportionately large breasts and may be covered by your private insurance.

Breast reduction involves reshaping and resizing the breasts to achieve a balanced and proportional appearance. Our skilled surgical team will utilize precise techniques to achieve your desired outcome while maintaining the health and aesthetics of the breasts.

Medical Reasons for Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery can help alleviate medical discomfort, such as relief from chronic back pain, neck pain, and shoulder grooving caused by the weight of larger breasts, as well as issues with skin breakdown and wounds under the breasts.

Addressing these physical discomforts can significantly enhance overall well-being and daily functioning.

Techniques for Reshaping & Resizing

At Kimball Health Services, our plastic and reconstructive surgeon may employ the following techniques for reshaping and resizing the breast. 

• Vertical or "Lollipop" Incision: It is helpful for moderate to significant breast reduction and allows for reshaping and resizing while minimizing scarring compared to traditional techniques.
• Inverted-T or "Anchor" Incision: It is effective for substantial breast reduction, addressing excess skin and reshaping the breast. It offers comprehensive reshaping capabilities, particularly for cases with significant ptosis (sagging).
• Liposuction-Assisted Breast Reduction: It is ideal for patients with good skin elasticity who desire minimal scarring. It is less invasive than other techniques, resulting in smaller incisions and quicker recovery than traditional techniques.
• Free Nipple Graft Technique: This technique is reserved for cases where a significant amount of tissue needs to be removed. It enables reshaping while achieving the desired breast size, particularly in extreme cases.

Every breast reduction procedure at Kimball Health Services is planned based on the patient’s unique anatomy, preferences, and the extent of reduction required. Our team ensures a personalized approach, optimizing aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Recovery & Postoperative Care

After the procedure, our team will provide detailed postoperative care instructions to promote healing during recovery. 

We can also provide ongoing support through your recovery, addressing any concerns or questions you may have. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure the long-term success of the procedure.