Specialist in NYC Tri-State area discusses the breast reconstruction step of your cancer recovery journey

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