RECONSTRUCTIVE BREAST SURGERY
The loss of (or injury to) one or both breasts can have a profoundly negative impact on a woman’s self-esteem and confidence levels. Breast reconstruction surgery is performed to recreate authentic-looking breasts for individuals who have undergone breast cancer treatment (i.e. mastectomy, double mastectomy, radiation), have sustained trauma or injury to their breast(s), or who suffer from a congenital breast defect. At the private plastic surgery practice of Dr. Bryson Richards, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, Dr. Richards is dedicated to ensuring that his breast reconstruction patients receive the best possible care and achieve results that look and feel naturally beautiful.
If you are seeking breast reconstruction after breast cancer treatment, Dr. Richards will work in close collaboration with your oncology team to ensure that his surgical plan aligns perfectly with your long-term medical treatment. Additionally, he will employ the latest surgical reconstruction techniques to facilitate a safe and effective procedure, minimize your discomfort and expedite your recovery.
BREAST RECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURE AND RECOVERY
Breast reconstruction procedures typically involve the use of breast implants as a means of restoring the breasts to the patient’s desired size and shape, while attempting to preserve the look and feel of natural breasts. For breast cancer patients who are planning to undergo a mastectomy (or double mastectomy), breast reconstruction may be performed at the same time (immediate reconstruction) or several months after the mastectomy (delayed reconstruction).
In general, breast reconstruction patients do not have the amount of natural breast required to support an implant. For these patients, Dr. Richards will perform a flap procedure using tissue harvested from a donor site on the patient’s own body (i.e. buttocks or abdomen) to recreate a natural breast mound and provide adequate support for the implant. There are a number of flap techniques that can be applied for this purpose, such as the TMG (transverse myocutaneous gracilis) flap and the DIEP (deep inferio epigastric perforator) flap. Dr. Richards will select the optimal surgical technique after a comprehensive assessment of your medical history, unique breast anatomy, and aesthetic goals.
Recovery times after a reconstructive breast procedure vary significantly from patient to patient, and are dependent upon each individual’s medical history, healing capacity, and the exact surgical techniques employed during the procedure. At the conclusion of your surgery, Dr. Richards will place a temporary surgical drain under the skin to siphon away excess blood and fluid, before wrapping the incisions with gauze and bandages. You will be given a support bra to help minimize swelling and support the breasts during the healing process. At each stage of your breast reconstruction experience, Dr. Richards will work tirelessly to ensure your safety and comfort, taking every possible measure to allow you to resume your regular activities as quickly as possible.
CONTACT DR. RICHARDS
Dr. Richards realizes that every patient has unique medical needs and aesthetic preferences, which is why his treatment philosophy is based upon the foundational principle of individualized customization. In practice, this concept amounts to: in-depth consultations, treatment plans that have been tailored to meet your specific needs, and comprehensive patient education, both before and after your breast reconstruction procedure.
It is one of Dr. Richards’ top priorities to spend ample time with each patient, and to be highly accessible to his patients during every phase of their aesthetic enhancement experience. If you would like additional information about your breast reconstruction options, please contact our office today. We look forward to speaking with you, and to scheduling your initial consultation with Dr. Richards.
