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Long Island Breast Reconstruction

When a mastectomy or lumpectomy procedure is required, many breast cancer patients consider breast reconstruction in Long Island to restore the appearance of their breasts.

When a woman must undergo a mastectomy or lumpectomy, it can be a very emotionally painful process. However, thanks to breast reconstruction, Dr. Scott Newman can restore the appearance of the breasts, areolae, and nipples. This can offer a great deal of comfort and reduce the difficult feelings associated with this time.

Breast Reconstruction Overview

A breast reconstruction procedure can last one to eight hours; the specific time required will be based on factors such as the exact techniques included.

At the start of mastectomy reconstruction surgery, general anesthesia will be administered. Dr. Newman will then perform the chosen breast reconstruction techniques, rebuilding the breasts, areolae, and nipples as desired. Incisions will be closed with stitches and dressed.

Breast Reconstruction Techniques

Flap Reconstruction

Flap reconstruction consists of first harvesting a section of tissue from another part of the patient’s body, such as the abdomen, back, thighs, or buttocks. The surgeon grafts this tissue into the chest, where it is shaped to the required dimensions, creating natural-looking results. A breast implant may also be placed for increased breast volume.

Flap reconstruction is ideal for cases where reconstruction is performed during the mastectomy operation and for cases when patients need radiation treatments after their mastectomy. It is also best when there is insufficient chest tissue to provide proper implant coverage.

Unilateral mastectomy patients find flap reconstruction to be an excellent option since it allows the surgeon to closely match the look and feel of the natural breast.

Implant-Based Reconstruction

During implant-based reconstruction, a saline or silicone breast implant is placed in the chest area to reconstruct the breast.

This option sometimes involves an additional reconstructive technique called tissue expansion, which is often used when reconstruction takes place during a separate surgical session after the mastectomy and some time has passed.

The surgeon places a prosthetic device called a tissue expander into the chest area. They expand it over time by filling it with saline, which expands the chest tissues. Once enough room has been created, the expander is removed and replaced with the chosen breast implant.

Implant reconstruction is ideal for patients who are looking for a shorter recovery process, especially older patients. Bilateral mastectomy patients often choose this option because its reconstruction results are highly symmetrical.

Dr. Newman Discusses How Saline Breast Implants Differ From Silicone Implants

Other Techniques

During plastic surgery for breast reconstruction, surgeons often rebuild the nipples and areolae. Nipple reconstruction involves using harvested tissue from another area of the patient’s body. Areolae are typically reconstructed using permanent cosmetic tattooing.

Women sometimes pair flap reconstruction with a tummy tuck. During this process, the excess tissue removed from the abdomen is used to reconstruct the breast.

Additionally, minor surgeries can also be utilized to correct any post-surgical defects after the breast reconstruction process.

Ideal Candidates for Breast Reconstruction in Long Island

Patients who must undergo bilateral or unilateral mastectomy or lumpectomy surgery are ideal candidates for this type of body cosmetic surgery in Long Island. This includes breast cancer patients and patients who are undergoing preventive mastectomy surgery due to a high risk of breast cancer.

Patients who have other underlying health conditions must discuss these with their plastic surgeon before undergoing breast reconstruction. Smokers will need to quit smoking several weeks before the date of their surgery since smoking damages skin health and prolongs the healing process.

Why Choose Newman Plastic Surgery for a Long Island Breast Reconstruction?

A breast reconstruction following mastectomy is best performed by an expert surgeon, which is why many patients choose Dr. Scott Newman and his team for their breast reconstruction.

Dr. Newman, a board-certified plastic surgeon, has performed over 6,000 breast procedures and is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most experienced breast surgeons.

Because of his vast expertise, Dr. Newman has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, Westchester Magazine’s 2024 Top Cosmetic Doctors Award, and New York Magazine: Top Doctors: 2021-2024 for cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. He performs state-of-the-art techniques to ensure the most natural-looking and highest-quality breast reconstruction results possible.

How Much Does a Breast Reconstruction in Long Island Cost?

The cost of a breast reconstruction in Long Island may be affected by numerous factors. These can include the techniques utilized, the cost of breast implants, anesthesia fees, and various other fees.

Typically, the price of a Long Island breast reconstruction procedure is covered by the patient’s health insurance provider. Patients should contact their health insurance provider and ensure they will cover the procedure’s cost.

In cases where health insurance coverage is not provided, financing may be available to help with the cost of reconstructive breast surgery. Companies like Prosper Healthcare Lending, CareCredit, and Alphaeon Credit offer a number of payment plans.

The Consultation

Dr. Newman understands that breast reconstruction surgery can be a very sensitive topic for patients who are already going through an incredibly difficult time in their lives. During their initial consultation with Dr. Newman, patients will have the opportunity to discuss their breast cancer journey, along with their breast reconstruction needs and goals.

Dr. Newman will go over the details of breast reconstruction, including preparation, surgical options, and recovery instructions. Questions are highly encouraged. Dr. Newman then develops the optimal breast reconstruction plan to suit the patient’s needs.

Additionally, Dr. Newman will perform a physical examination and ask questions regarding the patient’s health history. This will include questions about past surgeries, treatments patients are undergoing, underlying medical conditions, allergies, and medications and supplements they are currently taking.

The Long Island Breast Reconstruction Recovery Process

After breast replacement surgery, patients will spend time in the hospital recovering (usually a couple of days, but this varies). The staff will be close at hand to address any complications that may occur.

Once the patient is cleared to go home, the next step of the recovery process begins. The body will need plenty of rest for proper healing. This means taking time off from work and avoiding physically strenuous activities like exercise and heavy lifting.

Patients must follow recovery directions closely during the healing process. The details of this process differ based on the exact reconstructive techniques performed.

Regardless of the techniques utilized, patients will experience temporary swelling, bruising, and soreness in the reconstructed breasts. To address soreness, pain, and discomfort, pain-control medication will be prescribed and must be taken as directed. Antibiotics will also be necessary to prevent infections.

To minimize swelling and bruising, patients will need to wear a supportive surgical bra. These bras do not have underwires since they could potentially damage the weakened tissues. Ice packs can also be applied to reduce bruising.

Follow-up appointments will be scheduled during the healing process after breast reconstruction surgery. These will allow Dr. Newman to remove stitches, check for any post-surgical complications, and clear the patient to resume various activities. He may also recommend physical therapy to restore strength.

After all healing is complete, patients must remember to arrange regular mammograms. Mammograms are key in maintaining the health of the reconstructed breasts.

Contact Us Today

If you’re interested in finding out more about breast reconstruction in Long Island, contact Newman Plastic Surgery & Laser Center. Call 516-882-1020 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Newman.

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