Reconstructive surgery following a bilateral mastectomy is a surgical procedure designed to restore the breast volume, shape, and form after the surgical removal of both breasts.
While bilateral mastectomy surgery is beneficial to many, especially those who are at high risk for developing breast cancer, the procedure is designed to restore their appearance. Treatment options for people who have undergone a bilateral mastectomy have progressed dramatically over the years, and Dr. Michael Howard and the team at Michael Howard Plastic Surgery are at the forefront of innovations in reconstructive treatments of the breast area.
Serving the Chicago area since 2005, Dr. Howard and his team are among the best Illinois has to offer when it comes to the realm of cosmetic and reconstructive breast procedures. To schedule a personal consultation, contact Dr. Howard and his staff by calling (224) 271-4250.
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About Reconstructive Surgery Following a Bilateral Mastectomy
Breast reconstruction procedures intend to reshape and reconstruct the breast area, often after a procedure such as a mastectomy is performed. This is usually accomplished through an implant-based approach, autologous tissue reconstruction, or a combination of these two methods. The method used will depend on a patient’s individual needs and desires, as this type of procedure is highly personalized and customizable.
Implant-based reconstruction involves the use of saline or silicone implants to recreate the breast mound. This approach often involves two major steps, which include tissue expansion followed by the insertion of the implants. Patients who would rather opt for a more natural approach often seek autologous tissue reconstruction, also known as flap reconstruction. This technique works by taking tissue from somewhere else on a patient’s body and repurposing it to the breast area to create a more natural look. For some people, combining elements of both of these techniques is ideal to help them achieve their goals. (1)
Benefits of Breast Reconstruction
Reconstructive surgery after a bilateral mastectomy provides significant physical and emotional benefits. Many patients find that restoring the shape and appearance of their breasts enhances their confidence and overall quality of life. Breast reconstruction helps recreate a more natural contour, allowing patients to feel comfortable in their clothing and regain their self-confidence.
In addition to physical benefits, reconstructive surgery can provide mental benefits to patients. There is statistically significant evidence correlating improvements in psychological well-being and women receiving a reconstruction procedure following a mastectomy. (2)
Ideal Candidates
Essentially anyone who has undergone a bilateral mastectomy is a potential candidate for reconstructive surgery, but this is not necessarily guaranteed. Ideal candidates are in relatively good overall health, have realistic expectations about the results, and are looking to restore their breast appearance. Many people who undergo this procedure are women recovering from breast cancer treatment. Candidates are ideally non-smokers or people willing to quit smoking in advance of the procedure.
Ultimately, your eligibility for reconstructive procedures is up to the discretion of Dr. Howard, and he might ask that you undergo a series of medical examinations to determine whether you are fit for this type of operation. To see if you are an ideal candidate, contact Dr. Howard and his staff by calling (224) 271-4250.
Personal Consultation
If you are considering reconstructive breast surgery, the best place to begin is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Howard. This meeting will give Dr. Howard a chance to get to know you and gain an understanding of what you hope to accomplish with reconstructive surgery. During this consultation, Dr. Howard will examine your current health as well as your medical history and go over some of the available treatment options. Dr. Howard will discuss the benefits, risks, and possible outcomes of each approach.
Once Dr. Howard has the information he feels is necessary, he will create a personalized treatment plan for you that will provide details on what type of procedure he recommends and what the preparation and recovery process might look like. This consultation is a great time to ask any questions you might have.
To schedule your consultation, contact Dr. Howard and his staff by calling (224) 271-4250.
Preparation
Dr. Howard and his team provide detailed, personalized instructions for each patient. Part of this preparation plan might ask you to undergo certain medical evaluations to assess your overall health. Patients may be advised to avoid nicotine, blood thinners, and certain medications in the days and weeks leading up to the procedure.
It is advised that patients make arrangements for postoperative care, such as coordinating a ride home the day of the procedure and having someone they can trust to help with the initial stages of the recovery process.
Procedure
The details of a breast reconstruction procedure depend on the technique chosen. Regardless of whether you opt for an implant-based approach or an autologous reconstruction, breast reconstruction is still a surgical procedure, meaning the operation will likely take multiple hours and include the use of general anesthesia. Dr. Howard pays strict attention to detail when performing procedures and is very precise with movements, ensuring the procedure is done correctly, not quickly.
The step-by-step details of each procedure will also depend on what type of procedure the patient undergoes, and any details you wish to learn about can be explained by Dr. Howard. Implant-based approaches often involve the placement of a temporary extender into the chest area to gradually stretch the chest muscles and skin before the implants are inserted.
In the case of autologous reconstruction, an incision is usually made at a donor site somewhere else on the body, often the abdomen or back. Tissue is then taken from this area and transferred to the chest, where a breast mound is carefully created. In many cases, this procedure is often lengthier than implant-based approaches but results in a more natural aesthetic.
Recovery
Recovery from breast reconstruction will look different for every patient. Patients can expect to experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery. If needed, Dr. Howard can prescribe medications to ensure the patient’s comfort. Because this surgery can be relatively taxing to some, the recovery process might require adherence to a detailed postoperative protocol. Rest assured, any necessary steps you will need to take during the recovery process will be outlined in detail by Dr. Howard. Dr. Howard will guide you through the whole recovery process, which might include guidelines on activity restrictions, pain management, and follow-up appointments.
Patients are typically able to return to normal activities within a few weeks, although strenuous activity should be avoided for a longer period as directed by Dr. Howard. Some results might be noticed immediately, such as the overall shape that was crafted during the procedure, while other results might become increasingly apparent in the following weeks or months as the healing process occurs. You will likely have scarring around the chest, and those who underwent an analogous reconstruction will notice some scarring around the donor areas as well.
Results
Breast reconstruction following a mastectomy can produce life-changing benefits, but it is important to note that results can never be guaranteed, and patients should have realistic expectations about what this procedure can do for them. With this in mind, patients who go to Dr. Howard are ultimately receiving the best treatment in Illinois, and Dr. Howard and his staff are confident they can help boost your self-confidence, enhance your body image, and support emotional healing through their restoration treatments. While each patient’s journey is unique, Dr. Howard’s expertise ensures that the results are natural-looking and tailored to the individual’s goals.
It is important to remember that reconstruction is a process, and achieving the outcome may require additional steps. With this in mind, Dr. Howard and his staff are more than equipped to help you through the entire process, having performed over 10,000 procedures. To hear from some of the many patients who have achieved satisfactory results from Dr. Howard and his team, check out our reviews page.
Cost of Breast Reconstruction
A variety of factors impact the overall cost of your procedure, including the method used for the procedure as well as whether or not any additional or follow-up procedures are performed. A detailed cost estimate, as well as any questions you might have regarding pricing, can be discussed with Dr. Howard during your personal consultation.
FAQ
What is the best time to undergo breast reconstruction after a mastectomy?
This varies per patient. Some may opt for immediate reconstruction right after mastectomy, while others prefer delayed procedures once they have emotionally adjusted. Consulting with your surgeon can clarify what path may suit your needs.
Will I experience pain during recovery from reconstructive breast surgery?
A certain amount of discomfort is normal, but effective pain management strategies will be in place. Most patients feel a sense of tightness rather than sharp pain, which alleviates as healing progresses.
Can I combine breast reconstruction with other procedures?
Yes, many patients consider additional aesthetic treatments, such as nipple repositioning or liposuction, during the same surgical session.
References
- National Cancer Institute. Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy. National Cancer Institute. Published February 24, 2017. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/reconstruction-fact-sheet
- Roy N, Downes MH, Ibelli T, et al. The psychological impacts of post-mastectomy breast reconstruction: a systematic review. Annals of Breast Surgery. 2024;8(0). doi:https://doi.org/10.21037/abs-23-33