Where is tissue taken from for breast reconstruction?

The gluteal free flap or GAP flap uses tissue from the buttocks to create the breast shape. The gluteal free flap might be an option for women who cannot or do not wish to use the tummy sites due to thinness, previous incisions, failed tummy flap, or other reasons, but it’s not offered at all surgical centers.

Where are tissue expanders placed after mastectomy?

Your doctor can perform a mastectomy by removing breast tissue through a small incision underneath the breast. Through this incision, a tissue expander can be placed on top of the muscle to create a breast mound. Later, your doctor can remove the expander through the same incision and insert an implant.

Can belly fat be used for breast reconstruction?

Excess belly fat can be used for breast reconstruction to create results that look and feel natural. Many patients have sufficient excess fat in this area to use for the procedure. And when the fat is removed, in a similar manner to a tummy tuck, patients experience the added benefit of a slimmer waistline.

What is a flap after mastectomy?

Tissue flap surgery is a way to rebuild the shape of a breast using skin, fat, and possibly muscle from another part of the body. It is usually done after part or all of the breast is removed (mastectomy) because of cancer. It may also be done for women who have problems with breast development.

What is the most common breast reconstruction procedure in the US?

The implant is the most common form of breast reconstruction, and it involves the use of either a silicone or a saline implant to rebuild the breast. At MSK, we most commonly use silicone because it’s softer and feels more like a natural breast. For the vast majority of our patients, implant surgery involves two steps.

What is the recovery time for a double mastectomy with reconstruction?

Average recovery time after mastectomy and reconstruction is about 3-4 weeks, but may be up to 6-8 weeks. During that time, there may be restrictions against driving and activities that involve lifting or raising the arms up over the head.

Why are tissue expanders so uncomfortable?

The tissue expansion process is done after mastectomies to increase the submuscular space in preparation for the placement of permanent breast implant. The process is often believed to be painful by patients who are often intimidated by the prospect of mechanically stretching out their skin and muscle.

Do implants feel better than tissue expanders?

Once your implants are placed, you will likely feel more comfortable than you did with the tissue expander. Additional procedures including the creation of a nipple and areola, fat grafting, and scar revision are usually performed about 3 months after your implant is placed and the scar is healed.

What can go wrong with breast reconstruction?

The possible risks of breast reconstruction include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, poor healing of incisions and anesthesia risks. You should also know that: Flap surgery includes the risk of partial or complete loss of the flap and a loss of sensation at both the donor and reconstruction site.

How long will fat transfer to breast last?

Surgeons often slightly overfill the targeted area because it is normal for a certain percentage of cells to not survive. After about six months, the fat cells remaining should be enduringly established and last a lifetime.

How long does it take to recuperate from a mastectomy?

Recovering from a mastectomy: What to expect Most women should be fairly functional after going home and can often return to their regular activities within about 4 weeks. Recovery time is longer if breast reconstruction was done as well, and it can take months to return to full activity after some procedures.

What percentage of mastectomy patients get reconstruction?

Less than half of all women who require mastectomy are currently offered breast reconstruction surgery, and fewer than 20% elect to undergo immediate reconstruction. Studies have revealed that 23% of women understand the wide range of breast reconstruction options available.