Month: August 2017

Understand What is Breast Reconstruction 

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to recreate the breast after one has undergone breast removal due to cancer. The reconstruction may not restore the full function of a normal breast, but it gives women a sense of feeling feminine once again, enhance their self-confidence and self-esteem, and also increase their quality of life.  This breast reconstructive surgery allows one to feel complete as a woman.

What are the options for breast reconstruction?

There are various options available, such as:

Using breast silicone implants – This procedure is usually done in the first stage if there is sufficient skin, or it can be done as a second-stage reconstruction. After the mastectomy,  a tissue expander is placed and filled to a desired volume to stretch the skin pocket. The tissue expander is then stretched over a few times before it is ready for the second stage of reconstruction.

Using own body tissue – In some cases, it is possible for one to undergo a  tissue flap procedure. It can be from the patient’s own body tissue from the abdomen, which is the TRAM flap, or the latissimus dorsi flap, taking the tissue from the back.

Using fat from own body – We can also harvest fat from various body areas to graft to the breast for reconstruction.

Does breast reconstruction also include the nipple?

It depends on the complexity of the case. In a nipple-areola-sparing mastectomy, these structures are preserved. If the nipple and the areola are removed during the mastectomy surgery, it’s possible to reconstruct the nipple at the last stage after the completion of the breast reconstruction.

How do I know I am suitable for breast reconstruction?

There are choices for an immediate breast reconstruction or a delayed/later breast reconstruction. The choice depends on your medical condition and the surgical plans discussed with your breast surgeon.

Can medical insurance cover breast reconstruction?

If your surgery of mastectomy or lumpectomy is covered by medical insurance, your reconstruction surgery should be covered by medical insurance as well. Check with your insurance company about your coverage.

Is this considered cosmetic surgery?

Breast reconstruction is considered a reconstructive surgery and not a cosmetic procedure. Of course, the goal of the procedure is to reconstruct a breast with a nice cosmetic result.

What else do I need to know about breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgery best performed on patients with a high chance of being cured of breast cancer. We will not do any breast reconstruction without the clearance and green light of the oncologist.

To learn more about our breast reconstruction, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: enquiry@drmarco.com
Web: www.drmarco.com

How to correct Inverted Nipples?

Having beautiful breasts means the world to every woman. For some who have inverted nipples, it can make them feel less attractive.

What are Inverted Nipples?

It is caused by the fibrotic tissue or the ligament that holds the nipple inwards, causing the nipple-areola muscle to contract and fail to project the nipple outwards.

It can happen to either one or both breasts, can be hereditary, and happen in men. While it can be unattractive, it does not cause any health problems or risks.

What will it affect?

Breastfeeding may be affected as there is an increased risk of mastitis, which is a breast infection or inflammation during lactation.

How can we treat this Inverted Nipple?

For mild cases, the nipple can be stretched out to make it pop.

For severe ones, undergoing surgery can help to solve this problem. Note that re-inversion of the nipple is a possibility, and there might be some temporary loss of sensation after the surgery.

If you suspect you might have this problem, do seek clarification and consultation with your plastic surgeon.

To learn more about inverted nipples, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: enquiry@drmarco.com
Web: www.drmarco.com

 

Disclaimer: The information contained in this post is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your plastic surgeon or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment. Always speak to your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a procedure.