Breast reconstruction restores normal breast appearance following breast removal surgery, a traumatic injury or congenital or birth defects that causes breast deformity. Many women win the battle over their breast cancer only to be reminded of it daily in the mirror or when they have to use a bra prosthesis to restore symmetry underneath clothing. Advancements in this area have been great in recent years and breast reconstruction is now available to most women. Further, reconstruction can often begin at the same time as the mastectomy. However, reconstructive options are a very personal choice. Several techniques allow an individualized approach to breast reconstruction. Dr. Williams partners with the patient’s other physicians to create a cohesive surgical plan. He has vast experience in the area of breast reconstruction, using a variety of latest techniques.
If you or a loved one is facing mastectomy, contact Dr. Joel Williams today to talk about your reconstructive options.
Dr. Williams works with women who have lost one or both breasts due to cancer, another medical condition or severe trauma.
Breast reconstruction may be performed at our accredited surgicenter near Chattanooga, Tennessee. Breast reconstruction is achieved through several plastic surgery techniques that attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape, appearance and size. If only one breast is affected, it alone may be reconstructed to match the other. Reconstructive options, including techniques for creating a natural nipple and areola, can be determined in a consult with the physician. Dr. Williams and his team consider it one of their greatest privileges to walk alongside our breast reconstruction patients in their journey back to wholeness.
Dr. Williams and his clinical team will work with the patient as well as their other physicians to determine a personalized surgical plan for each patient.
If the skin is too tight to accommodate a breast implant, tissue expanders may be placed to slowly expand the space. The expander is slowly filled over four to six months, gently growing a larger skin pocket for placement of the implant.
Breast implants may be placed under a tissue flap or by themselves, depending on the individual patient and her needs. Dr. Williams can help determine whether saline or silicone implants would be a better choice.
There are several techniques to recreate the nipple and areola. These include grafting skin from other parts of the body or tattooing.
Once the patient is out of surgery and ready to return home, she should enlist the assistance of a loved one to help her during the next few days. These days should be spent avoiding strenuous or stressful activities. Dr. Williams will provide explicit post-operative instructions that outline how to care for the surgical site, when to resume normal activities, and when to return to our office for a follow-up visit.
Breast reconstruction after cancer can tremendously improve a woman’s self-confidence and quality of life. Restoring the volume and shape of the breasts can play a large part in the emotional healing process from breast cancer. Studies have shown that women undergoing reconstruction focus on the future and may get reintegrated into their social circles and personal relationships sooner.
If you would like more information about breast reconstruction, please contact cosmetic surgeon Dr. Joel Williams to arrange a consultation.
