Breast Reconstruction Surgery

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Houston Methodist is a national leader in breast reconstruction surgery, as it is one of the few hospital systems in the country (and the only one in Houston) with expertise in restoring breast sensation after a mastectomy. In addition to pioneering and mastering this complex technique, our skilled microsurgeons continue to improve this procedure through clinical trials. With seven locations across the Greater Houston area, our breast reconstruction surgeons offer expert care close to home or work.

Expertise in Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Our breast reconstruction surgery specialists are experts in:

  • Advanced breast reconstruction techniques, including use of your own excess abdominal tissue to reconstruct the breast or using implants.
  • Mastectomy with or without immediate reconstruction, including nipple-sparing mastectomy.
  • Microsurgery to restore form and supermicrosurgery to connect tiny blood vessels. 
  • Sculpting to make the restored breast appear natural.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery We Offer

Our highly skilled surgeons perform the following breast reconstruction and restoration procedures:

Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy With Immediate Reconstruction

This procedure involves preserving the skin of the breast and nipple. Reconstruction often takes place during the mastectomy or immediately afterward. This approach offers aesthetic benefits, helping women maintain a more natural breast appearance.

Delayed Reconstruction

This approach offers the option of undergoing breast reconstruction at a later stage, following the primary mastectomy. Delayed reconstruction is particularly beneficial for those requiring additional treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy.

Restoration

Restoration surgery involves a microsurgical technique to reconnect nerves in the breast area. This significantly increases the chance of regaining normal breast sensation. Restoration is aimed at patients who have lost sensation due to mastectomy or other breast surgeries. 

Flap Procedure

This procedure uses tissue from your own body, such as from the abdomen, back or thighs, to recreate the breast. This technique, known for its natural look and feel, is a preferred choice for those seeking a more organic reconstruction option. A flap procedure not only allows for the creation of a breast that closely matches the original in shape and texture, but also offers the benefit of tissue that ages more naturally.

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    FAQs About Breast Reconstruction Surgery

    Does breast sensation change after surgery?

    Usually after mastectomy, there will be a decrease in sensation. Many nerves in the nipple travel through the breast skin and tissue. During a mastectomy, that tissue is removed with those nerves. By using a patient’s own tissue during breast reconstruction, our microsurgeons can sometimes reconnect one or more nerves to improve sensation in the breast.

    Who is a candidate for breast reconstruction?

    Most breast cancer patients are candidates.

    Who is a candidate for double mastectomy?

    Patients with the BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 genes who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in one breast have the option for double mastectomy. Additionally, patients who carry a gene mutation but have not yet been diagnosed with the disease are candidates to reduce their risk of breast cancer.

    Is breast reconstruction covered by insurance?

    Yes, it is covered. In 1998, a law was passed requiring coverage.

    Is reconstruction using implants possible?

    Yes, we simultaneously perform a mastectomy and place an implant.

    How will I look after breast reconstruction?

    We can achieve a result that helps a woman feel feminine, attractive and like herself again.

    What are the different flap procedure options available?

    A flap procedure uses excess tissue from one location to reshape the breast. There are several different types of flap procedures after breast cancer surgery depending on where the skin is collected from, including:

    • Deep inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap (DIEP FLAP) – harvests excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen
    • Inferior gluteal artery perforator flap (IGAP FLAP) – use of tissue from the lower buttock without sacrificing the underlying gluteal muscles
    • Superior gluteal artery perforator flap (SGAP FLAP) – harvests tissue and blood vessels from the top buttock without injuring the underlying gluteal muscles
    • Superficial inferior epigastric artery flap (SIEA FLAP) – harvests small vessels from the fatty layer just below the abdominal skin for blood supply of a reconstructed breast

    What is a nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction?

    Nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction is a revolutionary way to offer mastectomy. We take out breast tissue without removing the breast skin and nipple. We reconstruct the breast during the same operation. This allows us to perform the reconstruction in a way that improves results and makes the breast look more natural.

    What options exist for patients who want to use their own tissue for breast reconstruction?

    Options depend on whether a patient has excess tissue, especially around the stomach, that can be used for reconstruction.

    How long is recovery after mastectomy and reconstruction?

    Recovery depends on the procedure. It usually takes two to four weeks before a patient can go back to light work or a desk job.

    How do I find the right doctors?

    It’s best to find doctors who work as a team, typically an oncologist, plastic reconstructive surgeon and breast surgeon. Our teams of doctors offer the most advanced breast reconstruction techniques, and are located throughout the Houston area, which means you don’t have to go far to find expert care. We can help you continue to have a full, beautiful life and put cancer in the past.

    Will a patient need surgery on the healthy breast to achieve symmetry?

    It depends on the kind of reconstruction performed. When we look at implant-based reconstruction, many times the other breast needs something done to make it look symmetrical. When we use a patient’s tissue, we have more opportunities to make the breast look like the natural breast. It’s important to discuss these concerns with your doctor.

    Is breast reconstruction major surgery?

    Most breast reconstruction patients return home the same day. If a flap-based reconstruction is performed, a two-day stay in the hospital is typically needed.

    Is breast reconstruction surgery painful?

    While the procedure is completed with anesthesia, patients often experience pain and discomfort in the weeks following surgery.