Breast Reconstruction Charlotte

When a woman loses a breast due to cancer or other condition, it can have a devastating effect on her self-esteem and body image. Some women even feel that they have lost their femininity. Breast reconstruction can be a physically and emotionally rewarding procedure for a woman who has lost a breast. The creation of a new breast can dramatically improve a woman’s self-image, self-confidence and quality of life. Although surgery can result in a relatively natural-looking breast, a reconstructed breast will never look or feel exactly the same as the breast that was removed.

Breast reconstruction is a highly individualized procedure that is a good option for patients who are able to cope well with their diagnosis and treatment, and do not have additional medical conditions or other illnesses that may impair healing. Patients must also have a positive outlook and realistic goals for restoring their breast and body image. Breast reconstruction can often begin at the same time as the cancer resection surgery (mastectomy). In some situations reconstruction is delayed until the patient heals from the mastectomy surgery and recovers from additional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation. There are various techniques in which breast reconstruction can be performed. These include skin expansion with breast implant placement, or flap reconstruction using tissue taken from other parts of the body, such as the back, abdomen or buttocks. The nipple and areola are reconstructed in a later procedure. Dr. Miles will spend a great deal of time during your consultation to discuss which breast reconstruction options might be best suited for you.