Breast Reconstruction
After breast cancer and mastectomy, Dr. Feledy can surgically reconstruct the breast so that it closely matches the existing breast. The surgery is often completed immediately after breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with the new breast already in place, sparing herself the experience of seeing no breast at all.
At Dr. Feledy's offices in Stafford or Chevy Chase, we perform several techniques in breast reconstruction – including advanced free flap techniques that use the patient's own tissues. The best candidates are women whose cancer has been eliminated.
Breast reconstruction typically involves more than one operation. The first stage, whether done at the same time as the mastectomy or not, will be performed in a hospital under general anesthesia. Follow-up procedures may be done at an outpatient facility with only local anesthesia.
FAQ About Breast Reconstruction
What are the different techniques in breast reconstruction?
There are two types of breast reconstruction—skin expansion with implants and flap reconstruction.
A Patient Note
"Dear Dr Feledy and Donna,
Now that we are catching our breath after the sudden breast cancer diagnosis, we wanted to let you know how much we appreciate your calm and kind professionalism during that whirlwind. We will be seeing a lot of you as we go through the reconstruction process, bet we will not forget how you treated me as a person, not a case, during that very difficult period."
CBC
Tissue expansion uses a balloon expander beneath your skin and chest muscle. Through a tiny valve mechanism buried under the skin, a salt-water solution is periodically injected, gradually filling the expander over the course of several weeks or months. The balloon stretches the skin over the breast area, creating a pocket for a breast implant.
Flap Reconstruction creates a skin flap using tissue taken from other parts of the body such as the back, abdomen or buttocks. The flap, consisting of skin, muscle and fat, is tunneled beneath the skin to the chest, creating a pocket for an implant, or in some cases, creating the breast itself.
How do I prepare for breast reconstruction?
You can begin talking about reconstruction as soon as you have been diagnosed with cancer. Dr. Feledy may work with your oncologist to develop a strategy. After evaluating your health, the doctor will explain which reconstructive options are most appropriate for your age, health, anatomy and tissues.Does health insurance cover the cost?
In most cases, health insurance will cover most or all of the cost of post-mastectomy reconstruction. Check your policy to see if there are any limitations on what types of reconstruction are covered.
How will I look and feel after breast reconstruction?
Depending on the extent of your surgery, you can expect to spend approximately two to five days in the hospital. Many reconstruction options require a surgical drain to remove excess fluids from surgical sites immediately following the operation. These are typically removed a week or two after surgery. Most stitches are removed in seven to 10 days.
What are the risks of breast reconstruction?
Surgical complications can include bleeding, fluid collection, excessive scar tissue or difficulties with anesthesia. If implants are used, there is the possibility that an infection may develop. In these cases, the implant may need to be removed. Another possible implant problem is capsular contracture, when the scar around the implant begins to tighten.
