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Breast Reconstruction
Broadly trained and experienced in a variety of breast surgery techniques and Board Certified by the American Medical Association in two surgical specialities, Dr. Nick Slenkovich is an expert in Breast Reconstruction surgery.
What Does Breast Reconstruction Do?
Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today. New techniques have made it possible in many cases for surgeons to create a breast that comes close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. For many patients, breast reconstruction dramatically improves appearance and quality of life after surgery.
Are You a Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
If you have had a mastectomy or are preparing to undergo mastectomy, you may be a candidate for breast reconstruction. Additionally, breast reconstruction techniques can be used for suboptimal outcomes following breast conservation surgery or other breast defects.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
Breast reconstruction is commonly performed using one of the techniques described below. During his consultation, Dr. Slenkovich will provide additional information to help guide you through the decision process.
1) Breast reconstruction using expander:
An expander is placed under the skin and chest muscles. Saline is then injected into the expander over a period of six weeks to four months. The overlying skin expands and grows with continued expansion. When enough skin is present, the expander is removed, and a permanent silicone or saline breast implant is placed at another surgery. If desired, nipple areolar reconstruction can be completed at a later time as a minor procedure. It is also possible that future surgery will be required for adjustment of the pocket where the breast implant is placed or to replace a deflated implant.
2) Breast reconstruction with a latissimus flap:
A flap of skin with underlying muscle is taken from the upper back and placed in the area of missing breast tissue. Usually, but not always, a breast implant is placed under the flap (at this same initial surgery) to provide the correct volume for the reconstructed breast. The back area from which the skin was taken is then closed. If desired, nipple areolar reconstruction can be completed at a later time. Latissimus flap reconstruction requires a short hospitalization (generally about 2-4 days).
3) Breast reconstruction with a TRAM flap:
A flap of lower abdominal wall fat, muscle, and usually skin is transferred to the area of missing breast tissue with its own blood supply. The abdominal donor site is closed as in a Tummy Tuck, leaving a horizontal scar and a tighter abdomen. An attempt is made to create a "normal" appearing breast mound and shape at the first operation. Follow-up smaller procedures are often needed. Nipple/areolar reconstruction is performed at a later date and is selective. TRAM flap breast reconstruction is a major procedure requiring hospitalization (generally 4-5 days).
What Is Recovery Like?
1) Breast reconstruction using expander:
Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Light activities can be resumed as tolerated. Aerobic activities can be started in about four weeks after the first and second stages of the procedure.
2) Breast reconstruction with a latissimus flap:
Discomfort of the back and reconstruction site will be present for several weeks. Full use of the area will require about six weeks of healing.
3) Breast reconstruction with a TRAM flap:
The patient begins walking 1-2 days after surgery. The abdominal donor site usually causes the most discomfort during healing. Pain decreases markedly during the first week. Recovery usually takes about 6-8 weeks.
Is Insurance Available?
Breast reconstruction is almost always covered by insurance.
Dr. Slenkovich has written or edited a number of medical articles on Breast Reconstruction and the various techniques. Click on
"Breast Cancer";
"Breast Reconstruction, Nipple Areola Reconstruction";
"Breast Reconstruction, Expander-Implant";
"Breast Reconstruction Latissimus Flap";
"Breast Reconstruction, Other Free Flaps";
"Breast Reconstruction, Refinements & Finishing Touches";
"Breast Reconstruction: TRAM, Bipedicled";
"Breast Reconstruction: TRAM, Free";
and
"Breast Reconstruction:TRAM, Unipedicled".
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Dr. Slenkovich is
Board Certified in two
surgical specialties:
Plastic Surgery by The American Board of Plastic Surgery
and
Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery by
The American Board of Otolaryngology
FROM OUR PATIENTS. . .
“You all were great! I felt like you really cared about me and I highly recommend you to my friends.
“I couldn't have found a better office or surgeon that was more professional or caring.
"Thanks so much.”
-K M C
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