Answers to Common Questions
If you are facing mastectomy and considering Irvine or Newport Beach breast surgery to reconstruct a breast lost to cancer, it is understandable that you have many questions. Dr. Andrew Smith believes it is important that you feel comfortable talking openly with the plastic surgeon you choose to perform your breast reconstruction so that you feel confident about the decisions you make and all of your concerns are addressed prior to surgery.
Dr. Smith Answers Your Questions about Breast Reconstruction in Orange County
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andrew Smith answers some of the questions he is most frequently asked by his breast reconstruction patients:
- Why do women choose breast reconstruction?
- Will my breast reconstruction be noticeable?
- Will my reconstructed breast also have a nipple?
- What options do I have for breast implants?
- Does breast reconstruction interfere with cancer treatments?
- What is the breast reconstruction process like?
- What can be done if I don't like my reconstructed breast?
Why do women choose breast reconstruction?
Women choose breast reconstruction in Southern California for very personal and individual reasons. If you choose breast reconstruction, it is important you do so with realistic expectations. Some common reasons include:
- Preventing the emotional strain of seeing yourself without a breast
- Enhancing self-esteem, body image, and confidence
- Restoring a balanced look to the chest, both in and out of clothing
- Feeling more sexually attractive
- Avoiding the inconvenience and discomfort of wearing a prosthesis
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Will my breast reconstruction be noticeable?
Without clothing you will be able to see the difference between your reconstructed breast and your natural breast. However, when you are wearing clothing, even a swimsuit or a bra, your breasts will likely be similar enough in size and shape that your reconstruction will not be noticeable.
Will my reconstructed breast also have a nipple?
Yes. The nipple and areola are usually removed during mastectomy, but they are commonly reconstructed in an additional outpatient procedure performed some time after the reconstruction surgery.
What options do I have for breast implants?
Women considering breast reconstruction have several choices to consider for their Orange County breast implants. Once a sufficient pocket has been created through tissue expansion, a silicone gel or saline implant can be placed in the breast. Dr. Smith will carefully review your implant options with you if you choose this reconstructive method.
Does breast reconstruction interfere with cancer treatments?
Having your breast reconstructed immediately after mastectomy has not been shown to affect subsequent cancer treatments, such as radiation and chemotherapy. Sometimes, I will recommend delaying these treatments until you have sufficiently recovered from the reconstruction surgery. I do recommend using a radiology center experienced with reconstructive breast surgery patients for future mammograms.
What is the breast reconstruction process like?
Every woman has a unique experience with breast reconstruction. However, if you do the research and talk with other women, you can begin to get a sense of common aspects of this procedure, including surgical options and steps to recovery. Dr. Smith has many satisfied patients who would be happy to share their stories with you - ask for more information during your consultation. In the meantime, you can read Teri's breast surgery story to hear one patient's perspective of her experience.
What can be done if I don't like my reconstructed breast?
It is important that we have open and clear communication about breast reconstruction results prior to your surgery to give you realistic expectations about the outcome. While I strive for natural and realistic looking results, a reconstructed breast will not look or feel exactly like a real breast. Once you have your surgery, you will need to wait for several months for the results to achieve their final shape before you will know how your new breast will look. If you end up with concerns, I will be happy to meet with you and discuss the options for modifying your reconstructed breast.
Our Care for You
As an Orange County breast surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction, Dr. Smith is proud to be part of a talented treatment team that has helped hundreds of women rebuild their lives after a breast cancer diagnosis. If you are considering reconstruction, he is happy to meet with you and answer your questions. Request a consultation online with Dr. Smith or call our office at 949.653.7000 and a staff member will be happy to assist you.
