Rebuild Your Shape and Your Confidence After Breast Surgery
If you have had a mastectomy or lumpectomy, or you were born with a breast difference, reconstruction can help you feel whole again. At Hauw Han, MD in West Chester, OH , board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Hauw T Han, MD, provides breast reconstruction for patients of all ages and backgrounds. To find out whether you are a good candidate, schedule a consultation online or call (513) 755-8115.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a type of plastic surgery that creates soft, natural-looking breasts after breast removal due to cancer or another disease. It can also correct congenital breast deformities.
In some cases, Dr. Han performs reconstruction immediately after mastectomy. In others, he waits until a later date. Either way, reconstruction offers a safe way to improve your appearance, your confidence, and your quality of life.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
The best way to find out is to schedule a consultation. During your first visit, Dr. Han assesses your physical and mental health and asks about your goals for surgery.
To get the most out of your appointment, bring a record of any previous surgeries, a list of the prescription medications you take regularly, and the results of any mammograms you have had. Dr. Han reviews these documents, examines your breasts, and takes photographs for your medical records.
Breast Reconstruction Options
The right approach depends on your anatomy and the results you want. After reviewing your medical history and completing a physical exam, Dr. Han may recommend one of the following.
Skin Expansion With a Breast Implant
This is the most common type of breast reconstruction. After your mastectomy, Dr. Han places a balloon expander beneath your skin and chest muscles. Over several weeks, he gradually fills the expander with saline solution so your skin slowly stretches.
Once your skin is ready, Dr. Han replaces the expander with a more permanent implant. A second surgery reconstructs the areola and nipple. If you would like to learn more about implants in general, see our breast augmentation page.
Flap Reconstruction
Flap reconstruction lets Dr. Han rebuild your breast using your own natural tissue. He removes a flap of fat, muscle, and skin from your back or abdomen, transfers it to your chest, grafts it in place, and inserts an implant.
Both flap reconstruction and skin expansion have advantages and disadvantages. Dr. Han will help you decide which one fits your needs. You can also explore our full range of breast procedures.
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Reconstruction?
After your procedure, Dr. Han places small drainage tubes beneath your skin to keep fluid from collecting. You will stay in the hospital for at least one night to support a smooth recovery. While you are there, get out of bed every few hours to move around.
In the days that follow, bruising, swelling, and general discomfort are normal. Follow Dr. Han’s recovery instructions carefully and take all medications as prescribed. Most patients can return to exercise, work, and sexual activity within three to four weeks.
Breast Reconstruction FAQs
When can breast reconstruction be performed?
Dr. Han sometimes performs reconstruction immediately after a mastectomy. In other cases, he waits until a later date. The right timing depends on your health, your treatment plan, and your personal preferences.
Can breast reconstruction correct congenital breast deformities?
Yes. Breast reconstruction can address congenital breast deformities as well as breast loss from cancer or another disease.
What should I bring to my reconstruction consultation?
Bring a record of any previous surgeries, a list of the prescription medications you take regularly, and the results of any mammograms you have had. Dr. Han reviews these documents, examines your breasts, and takes photographs for your medical records.
What is skin expansion with an implant?
Dr. Han places a balloon expander beneath your skin and chest muscles after mastectomy. Over several weeks, he fills it with saline solution to stretch your skin gradually. He then replaces the expander with a permanent implant and reconstructs the areola and nipple in a second surgery.
What is flap reconstruction?
Flap reconstruction rebuilds the breast using your own tissue. Dr. Han removes a flap containing fat, muscle, and skin from your back or abdomen, transfers it to your chest, grafts it in place, and inserts an implant.
How long will I stay in the hospital after breast reconstruction?
You will stay in the hospital for at least one night. Moving around every few hours during your stay helps support a speedy recovery.
How long does it take to recover from breast reconstruction?
Bruising, swelling, and general discomfort are normal in the first days. Most patients return to exercise, work, and sexual activity within three to four weeks when they follow Dr. Han’s recovery instructions and take medications as prescribed.
Take the First Step Toward Reconstruction
Request a consultation with Dr. Han at Hauw Han, MD in West Chester, OH to talk through your options. Book online or call (513) 755-8115.