Breast Reconstruction

Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center of El Paso: Corrective Breast Augmentation

Corrective breast augmentation of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today and not only for cosmetic reasons. New breast reconstruction techniques and medical devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast to help restore confidence.

Frequently, breast reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.

Who Is Breast Reconstruction For?

Breast reconstruction serves women who have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy as part of their cancer treatment or those who have experienced breast trauma or congenital deformities. For many of these women, breast reconstruction offers far more than an aesthetic benefit, restoring a sense of wholeness and normalcy after the challenges that created the need for the procedure in the first place. 

Medical History and Health Status

Good candidates for breast reconstruction surgery should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations. The reconstructed breasts will look and feel different from natural breasts, though our advanced surgical techniques make the difference less obvious than it used to be. It’s also important for candidates to understand that multiple procedures may be required. 

Timing Is Key

Some women opt to combine their reconstruction with their mastectomy procedure, so there is no gap in between. Others prefer delayed reconstruction to allow for healing after cancer treatment. Each approach has its unique advantages. Our providers will provide you with a clear picture of each approach so you can make the most informed choice. 

Our Personalized Approach to Breast Reconstruction

Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center of El Paso leads the way in state-of-the-art breast reconstruction surgery while addressing your own specific needs and desires. Dr. Reynolds, Dr. Jabor and Dr. Aburto, pioneers in the field of cosmetic surgery, use computer simulation to create and map out a corrective breast augmentation plan that is best for your body.

Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Centers of El Paso is proud to support Chia’s Silver Lining, whose mission is to encourage and support those going through cancer or other challenging illnesses.

Your Breast Reconstruction Experience at Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Centers of El Paso

Initial Consultation

During your consultation appointment, Dr. Reynolds, Dr. Jabor or Dr. Aburto will use advanced imaging technology and computer simulation to help you visualize potential outcomes you can expect. Your surgeon will explain the stages involved in your specific reconstruction plan, as the process typically unfolds over several months with multiple procedures.

Creating Your Surgical Plan

Especially when it comes to this procedure, no two patients are exactly alike. Several factors influence our approach to each patient’s reconstruction plan, including the following:

• Amount and quality of remaining chest wall tissue
• Presence of scarring from previous surgeries or treatments
• Body type and availability of potential donor sites
• Size and shape of your natural breasts
• Your lifestyle and activity level
• Personal preferences

Each of these points is factored into the approach that your surgeon recommends, from flap reconstruction to the use of donor sites to implant-based reconstruction. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to breast reconstruction, which is why our surgeons take extra care to balance all of the above considerations for results that feel authentic to you. 

Procedure Planning

If you’ve opted to undergo reconstruction immediately following your mastectomy, the procedure begins right after your mastectomy while you’re still under anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon works in coordination with your breast surgeon to begin the reconstruction process as soon as the breast tissue is removed. For delayed reconstruction, you’ll schedule the procedure at a time that allows for adequate healing from the mastectomy.

Procedure Day

The reconstruction itself can follow several approaches depending on your specific situation. Implant-based reconstruction uses tissue expanders and breast implants to recreate breast volume and shape. Autologous or flap reconstruction uses your own tissue from another area of your body, such as the abdomen, back or thighs, to build a new breast. Some women benefit from a combination approach that uses both implants and natural tissue for optimal results.

Throughout the procedure, our surgical team keeps your comfort and safety a top priority. General anesthesia ensures you remain completely comfortable during surgery, and our advanced surgical techniques minimize trauma to surrounding tissues. 

Navigating the Aftercare and Recovery Process

Recovery from breast reconstruction unfolds gradually over several months, with each stage of healing bringing you closer to your final result. 

Immediately After Surgery

As soon as your procedure has been completed, you will be escorted to the recovery area, where staff will monitor your response to the surgery and provide pain medication or other measures as needed until you are cleared to return home. Setting up your living space ahead of time for easy access to everything you will need, in addition to meal prepping and arranging any other services you will need help with, can give you peace of mind as you focus on recovery in the early days. 

The First Few Weeks

Your focus during the first week of recovery is rest. Lifting heavy objects and engaging in more strenuous chores or other activities is restricted during this time. Most patients experience soreness, tightness and fatigue after their surgery, which are normal. Sleeping in an elevated position can help reduce swelling and improve your comfort. Taking prescribed pain medications as recommended is important for staying ahead of the discomfort and making your recovery more enjoyable.

Key Aftercare Steps

We will provide detailed instructions on how to maintain the surgical drains that will be in place for roughly one to two weeks following your procedure. Drains will be removed as appropriate in one of your follow-up appointments. Caring for your incision is also a vital part of a healthy recovery, including scar care, both of which you will be advised on by our team. 

Long-term care of your reconstructed breast includes regular monitoring and maintenance. While reconstructed breasts don’t require the same screening as natural breast tissue, you should continue regular check-ups with both your plastic surgeon and oncologist.

 If you have implants, you may need imaging studies periodically to ensure the implants remain intact and properly positioned. Women who had autologous reconstruction using their own tissue should monitor for any changes in the reconstructed breast and report anything unusual to their surgical team.

Feel Like Yourself Again With Professional Breast Reconstruction 

At Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Centers of El Paso, Dr. Reynolds, Dr. Jabor and Dr. Aburto bring extensive experience, advanced techniques and genuine compassion to every reconstruction they perform. Their commitment to personalized care ensures that your reconstruction plan reflects your personal motivations and harmonizes with your body.

The doctors and their knowledgeable staff are always available to answer your questions or concerns regarding the corrective breast surgery procedure. For details, we invite you to schedule a corrective breast augmentation consultation or call 915-543-5600 to speak with one of the doctors’ assistants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have sensation in my reconstructed breast?

The degree of sensation you regain, if any, can vary significantly. Mastectomy procedures remove nerves along with breast tissue, but some women regain limited sensation as nerves regenerate. With autologous tissue reconstruction, nerves may reconnect, potentially allowing for a greater return of sensation. 

Can I undergo breast reconstruction if I had radiation therapy?

Radiation therapy affects breast reconstruction planning but doesn’t necessarily eliminate it as an option. Radiation can compromise tissue quality, blood supply and elasticity, which may impact healing and final results. Many surgeons recommend delaying reconstruction until several months after completing radiation to allow tissues to stabilize.

How does breast reconstruction affect cancer surveillance?

Breast reconstruction doesn’t interfere with cancer surveillance or increase recurrence risk. Your oncologist can still monitor for cancer recurrence through clinical examination and imaging studies. 

What happens to my reconstructed breast as I age?

Reconstructed breasts age differently from natural breasts. Implant-based reconstructions maintain their shape over time since implants don’t sag with gravity like natural tissue. However, the surrounding skin and remaining natural breast tissue will continue to age normally. Autologous tissue reconstructions behave more like natural breasts, responding to weight fluctuations and aging processes. 

Is nipple reconstruction always included in the reconstruction process?

Nipple reconstruction is typically performed as a separate stage several months after initial breast reconstruction, once the breast mound has settled into its final position. Not all women choose nipple reconstruction; some prefer the reconstructed breast without a nipple, while others opt for three-dimensional tattooing to create the appearance of a nipple and areola without additional surgery.