Breast Reconstruction in DuBois, PA
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Contact UsWhat Is Breast Reconstruction?
Surgical breast reconstruction is performed to restore one or both breasts to an attractive appearance in shape and size after a lumpectomy or mastectomy. It's also an option to restore a breast damaged by a birth defect or trauma. New techniques in reconstructive surgery make it possible for breast cancer patients to feel complete and have breasts that look natural, even after removal or damage. This surgery can include several procedures and different stages that can either be performed along with your breast cancer treatment or delayed until the treatment is complete. Dr. Algie LaBrasca creates a personalized treatment plan with compassion as we help you to restore your confidence and physical appearance. Contact LaBrasca Plastic Surgery in Brookville or DuBois, PA to set up a one-on-one consultation today.
How Is Breast Reconstruction Performed?
There's a variety of techniques available today to reconstruct the breast. There are also multiple factors that Dr. LaBrasca looks at when deciding on the technique that will produce your best results. Some of these factors include cancer diagnosis, when the reconstruction is performed, whether you will use implants or natural tissue, and if nipple reconstruction or nipple-sparing is a part of the process. In order to recreate the breast, you must have enough tissue to cover the breast mound adequately. Flap methods accomplish this by using your own skin, muscle, and fat to create, cover, and build the breast. The most frequent flap techniques are:
- TRAM Flap: Your breast is constructed using muscle, skin, and fat from your abdomen. The tissue used to create the new breast may be removed from the stomach or remain connected to the donor location, keeping the original blood supply.
- DIEP Flap: Like a TRAM Flap, the DIEP flap uses skin, fat, and blood vessels from the lower stomach; however, it does not use the muscle. The DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap transfers skin and fat from the belly to build the new breast, then uses microsurgery to attach the blood vessels to the chest wall.
- Latissimus Dorsi Flap: This technique uses muscle, skin, and fat from your back to reconstruct the breasts. During this procedure, tissue is moved from the back to the breast(s) through a surgically created path so it remains attached to the donor location, which keeps the original blood supply in place.
- PAP Flap: Another flap alternative is the PAP (profunda artery perforator). This method uses skin, fat, and muscle tissue from your inner thigh to create your breast(s).
- LTP Flap: Although the TRAM flap is one of the most common methods used for breast reconstruction, sometimes there isn't enough muscle, fat, and skin that can be taken from the abdominal area. In this case, the LTP flap technique may be used, which takes tissue from the lateral thigh area.
- Composite Flap: Also known as a composite stacked flap, this technique takes flaps from different sections of your body to reconstruct the breast.
LaBrasca Plastic Surgery Reviews
Dr. labrasca takes the time to explain and really cares about what the patient wants. He is doing my breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. He and his staff makes me feel like they care. I would not go to another plastic surgeon.
I Look Forward to my Appointments - We are very lucky in our area to have such a wonderful, caring Doctor. I had a mastectomy last spring in Florida and a highly recommended plastic surgeon was doing my breast reconstruction. After several problems I came back to Pa and Dr Labrasca was recommended to me. I thought I would have to live with What the Florida Doctor did and at my first appointment with Dr Labrasca I was very nervous and cried but now now I look forward to my appointments and my breast are looking better then what I had. I love him and his staff.
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Reclaim Your Self-Confidence
While the breast reconstruction process can take time, it is considered one of the top worthwhile cosmetic surgeries for our DuBois and Brookville, PA patients at LaBrasca Plastic Surgery. It may help decrease the physical and emotional impact of a mastectomy while also allowing you to boost your self-confidence and figure. If you have breast cancer, have had an injury to the chest, or have a congenital defect that affects the appearance of your breasts, we encourage you to contact our DuBois, PA office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Algie LaBrasca. We can help you create your ideal look.
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About UsBreast Reconstruction FAQs
How much does breast reconstruction surgery cost?
Breast reconstruction is a personalized procedure that depends on various factors, including the technique used and the complexity of your needs. Instead of focusing solely on cost, it's important to prioritize finding a skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. LaBrasca, who will listen to your goals and create a tailored plan for you. During your consultation, Dr. LaBrasca will discuss the cost, available payment options, and financing plans to ensure you feel comfortable with your choices.
Does insurance cover my surgery?
Under the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) of 1998, health insurance plans that cover mastectomies are required to also cover breast reconstruction. If you have insurance, our team at LaBrasca Plastic Surgery will guide you through understanding your coverage and help with submitting any necessary paperwork. We're here to ensure the process is as smooth as possible for you.
Which technique should I choose?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to breast reconstruction. The right method for you depends on your unique body, goals, and concerns. Dr. LaBrasca will explain your options during your consultation, covering both flap techniques and implants, so you can make an informed decision that feels right for you. Whether you choose a flap procedure or implants, Dr. LaBrasca's priority is to achieve natural-looking results that enhance your confidence.
What about nipple reconstruction?
Nipple and areola reconstruction is often completed with 3D cosmetic tattooing, which provides a realistic and aesthetic result. If you're interested in this option, be sure to let Dr. LaBrasca know during your consultation. He will go over your options and help you decide if adding 3D tattooing to your surgical plan feels right for you.
Should I have reconstruction with my mastectomy or wait?
Choosing when to undergo breast reconstruction is a deeply personal decision. Some patients opt for immediate reconstruction during their mastectomy, while others choose to wait. Dr. LaBrasca recommends scheduling a consultation as soon as possible after your cancer diagnosis. This way, you can explore your options and determine the timing that works best for you. If you decide on immediate reconstruction, Dr. LaBrasca will coordinate with your oncologist to create a comprehensive surgical plan.