- What is Breast Reconstruction?
- Reclaim Your Confidence
- The Reality of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
- How is Breast Reconstruction Surgery Performed?
- What Is Recovery Like After Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
- Patient Testimonial
- Nipple/Areola Reconstruction
- Fat Grafting in Breast Reconstruction
- Why Choose PVPS for Your Breast Reconstruction in Jacksonville?
- Breast Reconstruction Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Many women seek breast reconstruction after undergoing a mastectomy or surgery to remove a breast lump. A misconception of this procedure is that it will make your breast(s) look normal while nude. In some instances, this is possible if your reconstruction is completed at the same time as your mastectomy. In most all circumstances, this procedure will make your breast(s) look normal while wearing a bra. No matter which type of breast reconstruction you choose, your affected breast will differ from your unaffected breast. That being said, most women are satisfied with their breast reconstruction finding that it restores their confidence and makes life easier. At Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery we work closely with you, offering support and information to help you make decisions and to make the process as easy as possible for you during this difficult time.
During your first consultation to discuss reconstruction surgery, it’s important to disclose where you are in the treatment process and which cancer surgeon is treating you, as well as provide any necessary pathology reports. The reconstruction process may take place in multiple steps if the breast tissue needs to be stretched to make room for implants. This discovery phase will help guide the reconstruction process so that you end up with a new breast that is the size, shape, and look you want.
Reclaim Your Confidence
It takes an immense amount of strength to overcome breast cancer. At Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery in Jacksonville, FL, we understand and respect that. Let us augment the strength you’ve shown by helping you reclaim your confidence.
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The Reality of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
A common misconception is that breast reconstruction surgery will make your breast(s) look like they did before when you are nude.
In some instances, this is possible if your reconstruction is completed at the same time as your mastectomy.In many circumstances, this procedure will make your breast(s) look normal while wearing a bra. However, no matter which type of breast reconstruction you choose, your affected breast will differ from your unaffected breast.
That being said, most women are satisfied with their breast reconstruction, finding that it restores their confidence and makes life easier.
Breast Reconstruction Info
How is Breast Reconstruction Surgery Performed?
Each reconstruction technique will be tailored according to your physical health, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences. Many factors will play into the approach that will be taken. The ultimate goal is to ensure that you are healthy and happy with your final breast results.
There are two primary categories of breast reconstruction techniques:
- Procedures that involve using a breast implant
- Procedures that are autologous (use the patient’s own body’s tissue to reconstruct and recreate the breast)
Breast Reconstruction With Implants
Breast reconstruction using silicone or saline implants is a common approach that generally starts with the use of a tissue expander to help form a suitable pocket for an implant. The expander may be inserted after the mastectomy procedure, or during the same operative session. Over several months, the expander will slowly be enlarged. This works by using a sterile solution injected through a port residing under the skin. During the scheduled reconstruction surgery, the expanders are removed and replaced with permanent implants.
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Our breast reconstruction in Jacksonville is performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. Some patients may be required to stay in the hospital to be monitored for complications. The recovery process can be somewhat lengthy, but many view it as the final step in their cancer journey; thus, the experience can be very rewarding. Most women are thankful to have had the opportunity to restore their breasts and are very satisfied with their results.
Breast Reconstruction Patient Testimonial
“I am a breast cancer survivor of 22 years. I have had multiple reconstruction surgeries to make my breasts look normal from another practice. I went through a lot of dark times wondering if it just wasn’t meant for me to feel beautiful again. I was really at the point of giving up. I didn’t feel like the doctor and staff were very empathetic and concerned about my individual situation. I just felt like a number. A friend of mine recommended Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery because she had a procedure done and was extremely pleased, so I thought I should reach out to them for help. As a result, I met Dr. Bates. He completely changed my life and how I felt about myself. He made all of my insecurities about the way I looked go away. He is a very caring, kind, and genuine person who takes everything you have to say seriously. I feel so at ease talking to him. I like how he takes time to really listen to me and my concerns. He is a phenomenal doctor that has great skill and knowledge. He made me feel like a new woman after so many failed surgeries. I haven’t felt this way for many years. He made my life whole again. Thank you Dr. Bates for your incredible warm personality. You truly are one of a kind. May you be blessed in all that you do for others. I’m so happy our paths crossed. I will be forever grateful to you.”
Anonymous
Nipple/Areola Reconstruction
During a mastectomy, the nipple and areola often cannot be saved. The loss of one’s nipple and areola can be as unnerving as the removal of the breast itself.
However, reconstruction techniques have advanced greatly, allowing plastic surgeons the opportunity to re-create these areas of the breast to give a natural, aesthetically appealing appearance.
In a separate procedure, the nipple is created using existing breast skin. Using a tattoo technique, the areola is recreated with a skin graft taken from the thigh, abdomen, or back. If you are interested in nipple and areola reconstruction, you should tell your surgeon in your consultation. They will discuss your options to help you decide if you’d like cosmetic tattooing of your nipple-areola complex to be a part of your surgical plan.
Fat Grafting in Breast Reconstruction
Fat grafting falls under the category of procedures that are autologous, which means that your own body’s tissue or fat is used to reconstruct and re-create the breast. In fat grafting, liposuction will be used to remove fat from an area of the body where it can be spared, such as the stomach, thighs, or buttocks. This fat is then purified and injected into the breast(s) to create volume for a more complete appearance. Autologous breast reconstruction can also be done with techniques such as the TRAM flap technique or the DIEP flap technique.
Why Choose PVPS for Your Breast Reconstruction in Jacksonville?
If you're exploring breast reconstruction options in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery (PVPS) offers personalized care and advanced techniques to support your journey. Our patient-centered approach ensures every treatment plan is customized to align with your goals, helping you achieve results that restore both confidence and comfort.
At PVPS, our board-certified plastic surgeons are nationally recognized for their expertise in reconstructive procedures. With a team of 19 experienced providers, we deliver exceptional care, guiding you through every step of the process with compassion and precision.
Trust PVPS to help you achieve natural-looking, beautifully restored breast contours with expert, tailored solutions.
Breast Reconstruction Reviews
We will be forever grateful to Dr. Snyder and his staff . . . - In January, 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer; after making the decision to have a bilateral mastectomy, I needed to find a plastic surgeon for the breast reconstruction phase of this journey. I was given three recommendations to plastic surgeons; after doing some research, I crossed my fingers and chose Dr. Brett Snyder of Ponte Vedra, FL. From the first appointment (where we had SO many questions)to present day (I'm almost done!), Dr. Snyder and his staff have been extremely patient and kind, generous with their time, understanding and supportive. The first couple of weeks after the mastectomy/tissue expander implant surgery were "rough" - not knowing whether the physical aches/pains I was experiencing were "normal" coupled with a desire to NOT depend upon the pain meds sent my already over-extended emotions out of control. I contacted Dr. Snyder's answering service over a weekend; he called back right away and assured me that what I was feeling was normal and that I really WAS okay. Another time, I panicked and convinced myself I was retaining fluid around the tissue expanders; Dr. Snyder's staff went out of their way to get me into the office immediately to be checked. Of course, there was nothing PHYSICALLY wrong with me and although I was really embarassed for making such a big deal out of nothing, Dr. Snyder assured me that he'd "rather be safe than sorry" and everyone was very understanding. In my experience, the tissue expansion was the most physically difficult part of my breast cancer experience. However, I didn't go through it alone - Dr. Snyder and his staff were with me every week, empathetic to the discomfort I was experiencing while continually encouraging me toward the end-goal that would help me to STOP feeling like a cancer patient, raise my self-image and begin to see myself as a whole woman again. We were told that my "support team" would be vital to my recovery - I was truly one of the "lucky ones" when Dr. Snyder and staff became part of that support team.
I really liked all that Dr. Bates has planned for my breast reconstruction. Actually he was the second Dr. I've gone to for a consultation. Let's just say he blew the competition away. I can't wait to get started.
Dr Hickman is the Best !!Twelve years ago she did my breast reconstruction after mastectomy. She was awesome, caring and the results were better than I could imagined.Now almost 13 years later, I moved back to this area and looked up Dr.Hickman to have a implant exchange. I am so blessed and grateful to be able to have her do my implant exchange. Everything turned out as I expected "Great". I can't say enough good things about Dr Hickman,she listens and cares with her heart,she is truly a perfectionist and a beautiful person inside and out..Her staff is also amazing. I always felt comfortable about emailing or calling if I had a question, they always made me feel comfortable and never a bother. Thank you Dr Hickman . God bless you
I am beyond grateful and happy with my breast revision.
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Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover my surgery?
Enacted in 1998, the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) requires insurance policies that cover mastectomies to cover reconstruction surgery as well. If you have health insurance, someone from Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery will help explain your coverage. We can also help you submit any needed information to your insurance.
Should I have reconstruction with my mastectomy or wait?
The time at which you choose to have breast reconstruction is based on several things. Some patients choose to get their reconstruction performed at the same time as their mastectomy, while others decide to wait. Our surgeons usually suggest you make an appointment for a consultation after a diagnosis of breast cancer so you can begin learning about your choices and when you may want reconstruction surgery. If you decide to get reconstruction at the same time as your mastectomy, your surgeon will work with your oncology team to plan your care.
Which technique should I choose?
There is no single reconstruction technique that is right for every patient. The recommended method for you will be based on your concerns, wants, and physique. During your consultation, your surgeon will go over your choices, including both flaps and implants, so you can understand the pros and cons of each before deciding which is best for you. Whether you decide on a flap or implants, your surgeon will do their best to make your results look natural.
Can I undergo breast reconstruction if I’ve had radiation therapy?
Yes, breast reconstruction is still possible after radiation therapy, but it may influence the timing and technique used. Radiation can affect skin and tissue quality, so your surgeon may recommend flap reconstruction or staged procedures for the best results.
What if I only need reconstruction for one breast?
If only one breast requires reconstruction, your surgeon can focus on creating symmetry between your natural breast and the reconstructed one. This may involve techniques like implant matching, fat grafting, or a reduction or lift on the opposite breast.
Will I have sensation in my reconstructed breast?
Reconstructed breasts typically do not have the same level of sensation as natural breasts, though some patients may regain partial feeling over time. Your surgeon will discuss what to expect based on the chosen reconstruction technique.
Can breast reconstruction be performed years after a mastectomy?
Yes, reconstruction can be performed months or even years after a mastectomy. Whether you decide to wait or have reconstruction immediately, your surgeon will work with you to develop a plan that fits your timeline and needs.
What happens if I need revision surgery in the future?
Breast reconstruction results may change over time due to aging, weight fluctuations, or complications. Revision surgery can address concerns like implant issues, symmetry adjustments, or scar improvements to maintain or enhance your results.