If you’ve had a mastectomy or lumpectomy, or you were born with congenital deformities, consider breast reconstruction. At Hauw T Han, MD, LLC, in West Chester, Ohio, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Hauw T Han, MD, provides breast reconstruction for people of all ages and backgrounds. To see if you’re a good candidate for breast reconstruction, book an appointment with the online scheduling tool, or call the office today.

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What is breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a type of plastic surgery that creates soft, natural-looking breasts following breast removal due to cancer or another disease. It can also address congenital breast deformities.

Sometimes Dr. Han performs breast reconstruction immediately after mastectomy. Other times he waits until a later date. Regardless of when it occurs, breast reconstruction provides a safe way to dramatically improve your appearance, confidence, and quality of life.

Who is a good candidate for breast reconstruction?

To determine if you’re a good candidate for breast reconstruction, make an appointment at Hauw T Han, MD, LLC. During your initial consultation, Dr. Han assesses your physical and mental health and asks about your goals for cosmetic surgery.

To get the most out of your appointment, bring a record of any previous surgeries, a list of the prescription medications you regularly take, and the results of any mammograms you’ve had. Dr. Han reviews these documents. He also examines your breasts and takes photographs for your medical records.

What does breast reconstruction involve?

The type of breast reconstruction that’s right for you depends on your anatomy and desired results. Following a review of your medical history and a comprehensive physical exam, Dr. Han might recommend:

Skin expansion with a breast implant

The most common type of breast reconstruction is skin expansion with an implant. Following mastectomy, Dr. Han inserts a balloon expander beneath your skin and chest muscles. Once placed, he slowly fills the balloon with a saline solution over a period of several weeks. Over time, the balloon stretches out your skin.

Eventually, Dr. Han replaces it with a more permanent implant. At a second surgery, he reconstructs your areola and nipple.

Flap reconstruction

Flap reconstruction allows Dr. Han to rebuild your breast with natural tissue. During flap reconstruction, Dr. Han removes a tissue flap containing fat, muscle, and skin from your back or abdomen. He transfers the flap to your chest, grafts it in place, and inserts an implant.

Both flap reconstruction and skin expansion have advantages and disadvantages. Dr. Han can help you determine the type of breast reconstruction that’s right for you.

What is recovery like following breast reconstruction?

Following breast reconstruction, Dr. Han places small drainage tubes beneath your skin to prevent fluids from accumulating. To ensure a speedy recovery, you’ll stay in the hospital for at least one night. During your stay, get out of bed every few hours to move around.

In the days after your procedure, It’s normal to experience some bruising, swelling, and general discomfort. Follow Dr. Han’s recovery instructions carefully, and take all medications as prescribed. You should be able to return to exercise, work, and sexual activity within three or four weeks.

To see if breast reconstruction is right for you, request a consultation at Hauw T Han, MD, LLC. Book an appointment with the online scheduling tool, or call the office today.