Case-17733 Gallery

Before and after bilateral delayed breast implant reconstruction in a 56 year old breast cancer survivor. She previously had tissue expanders placed but experienced postoperative wound healing issues and infections that required explantation. She had healed over several years and was ready to give a successful reconstruction a try.

Because she had a good amount of healthy breast skin and absence of radiation damage or residual infection, placement of the full sized silicone gel breast implants as a “direct to implant” delayed reconstruction was possible, without the need for tissue expanders. As for all our patients, her implants were placed on top of the muscle, in the prepectoral position. No ADM (acellular dermal matrix) or other mesh products were used.

Nipple reconstructions were performed at the same surgery and tattoo of the nipple reconstructions and areolas were performed six months later in the office. Long term follow up photos are shown 4 years after surgery. Her tattoos have faded slightly; they can be touched up if needed under local anesthetic in our office or made to look even more natural by an experienced 3-D nipple areola tattoo artist.

Isn’t breast reconstruction amazing? Restoring the breast form in a breast cancer survivor is so immensely rewarding and has always been an important part of this Plastic Surgery practice. Helping women regain their sense of body image and self-esteem after facing breast cancer is the ultimate reward!