At Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery, we understand that breast reconstruction is a deeply personal journey towards regaining both confidence and a sense of wholeness. Whether you’re recovering from breast cancer, dealing with congenital conditions, or facing the aftermath of trauma, our dedicated team is here to support you through every step of the reconstruction process. Breast reconstruction is more than just a procedure—it’s a transformative experience that helps restore not only your physical appearance but also your emotional well-being.
By choosing our expert care, you’re taking a powerful step toward reclaiming your body and embracing a new chapter with renewed self-esteem. Request your consultation today to explore how we can tailor a personalized reconstruction plan to meet your unique needs and goals.
What is breast reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a pivotal procedure designed to rebuild and restore the shape, appearance, and symmetry of a breast after mastectomy or significant trauma. This transformative surgery involves various techniques to recreate a natural-looking breast, using either implants or your own body tissue. The process can include the reconstruction of the breast mound, the creation of a new nipple and areola, and the restoration of symmetry with the other breast.
Whether you choose a method that uses your own tissue (such as a flap procedure) or implants, breast reconstruction aims to provide a sense of wholeness and enhance your confidence. Each approach is personalized to align with your body’s needs and your aesthetic goals, ensuring a result that feels both natural and empowering.
What are the benefits of breast reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction offers profound physical and emotional benefits beyond its primary goal of restoring breast shape and symmetry. For many women, a mastectomy can lead to a loss of confidence and a diminished sense of femininity. Our compassionate surgeons at Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery strive to rebuild what was lost, aiming to restore both the breast’s shape and your self-esteem. By recreating the breast’s contours and proportions, we help you regain your confidence and improve your body image.
Breast reconstruction also addresses practical concerns such as wardrobe issues and comfort. Reconstructed breasts can enhance your ability to wear a variety of clothing with ease, offering a more natural and balanced appearance that complements your overall figure.
One of the most significant advantages of breast reconstruction is its personalized approach. We tailor the procedure to your specific needs and preferences, whether you desire a different breast size or shape from your natural state. With a range of implant options and techniques, we can help you achieve a look that aligns with your aesthetic goals and feels truly like you.
What can I expect during the procedure?
At Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery, we offer a variety of breast reconstruction methods tailored to each patient’s unique needs and cancer treatment history. Our skilled surgeons provide both implant-based reconstruction and autologous reconstruction, which uses your own tissue to rebuild the breast. We perform reconstruction both immediately following a mastectomy or lumpectomy and in complex revision cases for those who have previously undergone reconstructive surgery.
Implant-based reconstruction is the most prevalent approach in the U.S. and can be performed either as a single-stage procedure with permanent implants or a staged process using a tissue expander initially. Additionally, we utilize oncoplastic techniques, which integrate our expertise in breast plastic surgery with the specialized skills of breast oncology surgeons to achieve optimal results in breast conservation treatments.
Additionally, our surgeons perform specific types of flap-based reconstruction for patients whose complexities of cancer care require such an approach. This reconstruction is often needed in patients with advanced cancer or cancer that involves radiation therapy.
What can I expect from the results?
Breast reconstruction offers transformative results, restoring not just the physical appearance but also enhancing emotional well-being. After the procedure, patients can expect a renewed sense of confidence and self-esteem as their breasts regain a natural shape and contour.
The results vary based on the chosen technique, whether implant-based or autologous, but generally, the reconstruction aims to achieve symmetry and a balanced silhouette that complements the rest of your body. The reconstructed breasts are designed to look and feel as natural as possible, allowing you to enjoy activities and wear clothing with greater ease and comfort. While there may be some scarring, these are typically well-concealed and fade over time.
Overall, breast reconstruction aims to help you feel whole again, with an appearance that reflects your personal sense of femininity and strength.
What is the recovery time for breast reconstruction?
Recovery after breast reconstruction varies depending on the specific procedure and individual factors, but generally, patients can expect a period of careful healing. Immediately following surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which is manageable with prescribed pain medication.
Most patients return to light activities within a few weeks, with a gradual increase in activity over time. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s guidance on post-operative care, including avoiding strenuous activities and wearing supportive garments. Full recovery and the final results may take several months, during which your reconstructed breasts will settle into their new shape.
Regular follow-up appointments ensure that your healing progresses smoothly and help address any concerns along the way.
Request a breast reconstruction in Virginia Beach
If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey towards restoration and renewal, schedule a breast reconstruction consultation with our compassionate team at Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery in Virginia Beach. Our experienced surgeons are dedicated to helping you regain confidence and restore your sense of self after breast surgery. We understand the emotional and physical challenges you face, and we’re here to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs.
Call us at 757-496-5556 or fill out the form below to request your consultation today. Let us support you in achieving the transformation you deserve, and rediscover the joy of feeling whole and beautiful once again.
