Specialist in NYC Tri-State area discusses the breast reconstruction step of your cancer recovery journey
The team at Edmund Kwan, MD is honored to play a vital role in your cancer recovery. As a provider of breast reconstruction in NYC, Board-certified reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Edmund Kwan, is sensitive to the emotional and cosmetic concerns of patients following their mastectomy, and he’s proud to be able to help you reclaim a sense of “normalcy,” or to give you peace of mind should treatment be recommended as a preventive measure.
For those who are considering rebuilding their breasts after cancer treatment, it’s important to know that a number of studies have found women who opt for reconstruction procedures enjoy renewed confidence, an enhanced self-image, a stronger sense of femininity, and an overall improved feeling of wellbeing; however, Dr. Kwan knows this is a highly personal journey. He and his skilled team are there for you, as members of your medical team. They ensure you have the information necessary to make well-informed decisions from the beginning, as the steps you take early in the process can affect the results you get from reconstructive treatment later.
Breast reconstruction, explained
Thanks to scientific and technological advancements, you have the power of choice with regard to the method used to reconstruct your breasts. You may choose from:
- Implant-based reconstruction – Saline or silicone implants are placed to rebuild breast tissue. Dr. Kwan also offers implants made from structured saline and thick silicone gel. He’ll go over the considerations and benefits associated with each during a consultation with you.
- Flap-based reconstruction – Tissue taken from your body is used to rebuild breasts. Such autologous tissue is also known as a “flap.”
Since all treatments at Dr. Kwan’s Manhattan, Queens and New Jersey (Fort Lee) offices are tailored to your unique needs and preferences, you may be a candidate for both implant- and flap-based reconstructive techniques. Regardless of technique, the general goal for reconstructive treatment following a mastectomy is to create breasts that are as close as possible to the shape, size, projection, overall appearance, and feel of natural breasts. In consultation with you, Dr. Kwan discusses anticipated outcomes from treatment, as it’s important to have realistic expectations about the results from reconstructive procedures.
The process
If you choose to reconstruct your breasts with implants, the saline, silicone, gummy bear, structured saline, or round implant will be placed under the skin or muscle through as small of an incision as is appropriate. Dr. Kwan takes great pride in his level of skill, minimizing the size of incisions, which further minimizes the appearance of lingering scars post-reconstruction. Some women may have implants placed immediately following their mastectomy, which underscores the importance of involving a plastic or reconstructive surgeon early on, shortly after a diagnosis is made.
You may, however, require a tissue expander to make room for the implant. This is a gradual process, which largely involves slowly filling the expanding area of the chest with saline during return appointments to Dr. Kwan’s office.
If you choose flap-based reconstruction, the “flap” tissue is taken from different parts of your body, such as the abdominal area, and transferred to the chest. Flaps may also be removed from areas such as the thighs or backside, among those women who don’t have sufficient fat for transfer, or who have had previous abdominal surgeries. There are many techniques that can be used to transfer tissues, and some involve retaining the blood supply with the “flap.” Again, the method used is very specific to each patient, and depends significantly on unique anatomical characteristics. Regardless of the technique employed, Dr. Kwan’s high level of skill allows him to successfully administer even the most highly technical microsurgical operations to reattach blood vessels.
Recovery
You’ve already survived cancer. So, with proper planning, Dr. Kwan’s expertise, and thorough post-operative instruction, every effort will be made to ensure healing is uneventful and free of complications. As with all surgical procedures, there are risks. These risks differ depending on whether you choose implants or autologous fat transfer; for instance, implants can extrude through the skin, rupture, or give rise to scar tissue (contracture). Flap-based procedures are, generally, associated with longer recoveries, and risks of necrosis of transferred tissue and blood clots (more common with some sources of flap tissue).
All patients can benefit from physical therapy, which helps to improve the range of motion, regain strength, and identify the safest ways to go about your day-to-day activities. These and other post-reconstructive services are covered by insurance plans, as part of the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery Before and After Done By Dr. Kwan
Best and Safe methods of Breast Augmentation - Dr. Edmund Kwan
Are Silicone Implants safe for breast augmentation?
The silicone is very safe as it does not cause any ordinary disease or cancer.
What is a Saline Breast Implant?
Saline implants are a breast implant that is filled with saltwater. It is very effective in giving patients what they want. However, the appearance of saline implants was reasonable but when you go to feel these implants, they feel much more fake than silicone implants.
Why do you recommend silicone implants?
Silicone implants were again approved by FDA about 10 years ago and for most of the patient’s Silicone Implants are the best material. The rupturing or complications from it can happen but they are fairly low, so it is a great implant to use.
How is the procedure done?
It is done through an incision around the breast, or around the nipple area, or at the bottom of the breast or in the armpit area.
There are advantages and disadvantages of each procedure. However, in many of the ethnic population, the scaring on the breast tend to be a little bit worst and these scars turn to hypopigmented and become darker or scars become thicker.
In the hands of a skilled cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Edmund Kwan, you can find greater satisfaction with your shape and size.
Schedule your consultation today!
There may be “trade-offs.” But the associated risks are minor when compared to the many quality of life-enhancing benefits of reconstruction. Call (212) 734-4488 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kwan.
What our patients say
More ReviewsReclaim your confidence, sense of self, and quality of life following breast cancer treatment
Dr. Edmund Kwan offers a range of reconstructive options to rebuild breasts post-mastectomy, skillfully and safely administered. Edmund Kwan, MD welcomes playing an important role in your recovery.
Schedule a consultation at one of three Tri-State locations: NYC (Manhattan), Queens (Flushing), and New Jersey (Fort Lee).
