Breast Reconstruction in Sugar Land, TX
Dr. David Stapenhorst and the staff of Signature Plastic Surgery are proud to offer Breast Reconstruction services to cancer survivors in Sugar Land, Texas, and Houston, Texas. Dealing with breast cancer is a difficult process for women. Making the choice to have a mastectomy increases a woman’s chances of survival, but can often leave her feeling less feminine. Breast Reconstruction offers many women a new beginning.
What happens during the Breast Reconstruction procedure by Dr. David Stapenhorst?
The goal of Breast Reconstruction is to replace the skin, breast tissue and nipple that were removed during the mastectomy, and restore symmetry between the breasts. Individual cases vary, so Dr. Stapenhorst works closely with his breast cancer patients to develop an individual treatment plan that is based on the extent of the mastectomy and the woman’s expectations. Some women receive breast implants, while others have a reconstruction using their body’s own tissue. The breast reconstruction procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The natural tissue is shaped, and, if required, the breast implants are placed above or below the chest muscle. The treatment plan may include nipple and areola reconstruction. Techniques that are used to reconstruct the nipple and areola include medical tattooing, nipples shaped from the patient’s natural tissue and prosthetic nipples. Typically, two to four separate surgeries are required to complete the reconstruction of the breast. Breast Reconstruction surgery typically takes one to six hours, depending on the extent of the reconstruction. Women who undergo Breast Reconstruction surgery typically stay in the hospital for two days.
When can normal activities resume after the Breast Reconstruction procedure?
While in the hospital, Breast Reconstruction patients must limit their activities. Recovery begins with small exercises, such as walking and moving the arms. Patients must not attempt any strenuous activities, including pulling themselves up, getting out of bed alone or lifting heavy objects. Typically, patients return to their normal activities within six weeks, and are able to participate in more strenuous activities such as exercise, after several weeks.
Is there any pain associated with the Breast Reconstruction procedure?
Patients typically report soreness, swelling and bruising for two to three weeks after the Breast Reconstruction procedure. Dr. Stapenhorst may prescribe pain medications to keep the patient comfortable.
How much does Breast Reconstruction cost in Sugar Land, TX?
Signature Plastic Surgery works with CareCredit® to provide financing options for patients. Within a few hours, you can be pre-approved for your cosmetic procedure.
How Long Is The Recovery After Breast Reconstruction?
The recovery time for a breast reconstruction can be expected to be around six to eight weeks. You may be able to reduce the recovery time if you combine your mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting will need to be avoided for an extended period of time. Additionally, a compression bandage will be required to help the newly reconstruction breast(s) heal properly. Dr. Stapenhorst will discuss the details of your recovery during your consultation.
Dr. Stapenhorst specializes in cosmetic surgery; visit our other breast procedures pages including TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction, breast augmentation and breast lift.
