Breast construction surgery is a procedure to restore the size and shape of your breast after a mastectomy or other trauma. Breast construction surgery can achieve this by replacing skin, breast and tissue (tissue reconstruction), and implant reconstruction. Depending on your needs, either one or both breasts may be reconstructed.
A breast reconstruction surgery is highly dependent on the individual’s needs and is custom-tailored for each person. A breast reconstruction can require one or multiple operations to fully achieve the desired reconstructed breast look. Dr. Eagan fully recognizes the very personal and sometimes challenging decisions that come with deciding to reconstruct your breasts after a mastectomy, and is prepared to work with you to detail the procedure and decide on a plan that is best for you.

There are two main types of breast reconstruction surgery:

Implant Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction involving silicone or saline implants involves placing an implant behind the pectoral muscle in your chest. A tissue expander is often used to stretch the skin on your breasts post-mastectomy so that there is enough room for the breast implant. Using a tissue expander is a process, and will allow the skin to gradually stretch over a few months time by gradually inflating the tissue expanders with saline. After your breast tissue is sufficiently expanded, Dr. Eagan will insert the permanent implant.

The recovery times for a breast reconstruction procedure using implants depends on the amount and types of surgeries performed.

Tissue Flap Reconstruction

A breast reconstruction using tissue flap reconstruction uses fat, muscle, tissue, and/or skin from other areas of the body to reconstruct the breast. The reconstructed ‘flap’ of tissue can be taken from the back, abdomen, or other part of your body. There are different types of flap procedures that can be performed, depending on your anatomy, needs, and a number of other factors. Dr. Eagan will work closely with you to discuss the steps involved in your tissue flap reconstruction.

The recovery for a tissue flap reconstruction surgery is typically longer than an implant reconstruction, due to the complex nature of the surgery.