Breast Reconstruction in Nashville

Name: Breast Reconstruction
Brand: Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute
Rating: 5 (178 reviews)

Restore the natural appearance and symmetry of your breasts after mastectomy or trauma, enhancing your physical form and emotional well-being.

Restore Balance and Beauty with Breast Reconstruction

Facing the loss of a breast due to mastectomy, trauma, or congenital conditions can be a profoundly emotional and challenging experience. The physical changes often lead to feelings of incompleteness and can significantly impact your self-esteem and overall quality of life. If you’re seeking to restore the natural appearance and symmetry of your breasts, breast reconstruction offers a transformative solution to help you regain your confidence and sense of wholeness. At Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute, we understand the emotional and physical journey you’re on. Dr. Jacob Unger, a leader in breast reconstruction techniques, specializes in personalized breast reconstruction procedures that are tailored to your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Utilizing the latest surgical techniques and compassionate care, we are dedicated to helping you rebuild your breasts and enhance your emotional well-being, ensuring you feel balanced and beautiful once again.

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a comprehensive surgical procedure designed to restore the natural appearance and symmetry of the breasts following mastectomy, trauma, or congenital conditions. The primary goal of breast reconstruction is to help patients regain their physical form and emotional well-being by rebuilding the breasts to resemble their natural shape and size closely. This procedure not only enhances aesthetic appearance but also plays a crucial role in improving self-esteem and quality of life for those who have undergone breast removal due to cancer or other medical reasons.

At Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute, we offer a range of breast reconstruction options tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Our experienced surgeon, Dr. Unger, utilizes the latest surgical techniques and advanced technologies to ensure optimal results with minimal scarring and downtime. Whether you’re seeking implant-based reconstruction, tissue-based methods, or a combination of both, our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized care and support throughout your reconstruction journey.

Breast Reconstruction Options

We provide various breast reconstruction methods to suit different medical needs and personal preferences. Each reconstruction option offers unique benefits and can be customized to meet your specific needs. During your consultation, Dr. Unger will evaluate your medical history, discuss your aesthetic goals, and recommend the most suitable reconstruction method to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Below are the primary options available at Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute:

Implant-Based Reconstruction: This method involves the use of breast implants to recreate the breast mound. Implants can be saline or silicone, with Motiva Implants® offering a more natural look and feel through advanced technology. Implant-based reconstruction is a popular choice for those seeking a quicker recovery and a straightforward procedure.
Revision Breast Reconstruction: This approach is for individuals who have previously undergone breast reconstruction but are dissatisfied with the results, revision reconstruction aims to correct or improve the appearance and functionality of the reconstructed breasts, which can involve adjusting implants, refining tissue contours, or addressing asymmetry.
Nipple Reduction: Nipple reduction is often performed in conjunction with breast reconstruction to resize or reposition the nipple-areola complex, ensuring a more natural and balanced appearance of the breasts.
Chest Wall Liposuction: This procedure involves removing excess fat from the chest area to contour the chest wall and enhance the overall symmetry and appearance of the reconstructed breasts.
Tubular Breast Deformity Correction: Tubular breast deformity is a condition characterized by narrow, constricted breasts with a tubular shape. Corrective surgery reshapes and restores the natural contour of the breasts, providing a fuller and more balanced appearance.
Breast Explant: Breast explantation involves the removal of existing breast implants, which may be necessary due to complications, dissatisfaction with implant appearance, or personal preference. This procedure can be part of a revision or corrective reconstruction plan.
Breast Fat Grafting: Fat grafting uses liposuction to harvest fat from other areas of the body, which is then injected into the breasts to enhance volume, improve contour, and achieve a more natural feel. This technique can be used alone or in combination with other reconstruction methods.

Breast Reconstruction Before & After

View All Breast Reconstruction Results

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The Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

Experiencing the loss of a breast due to mastectomy, trauma, or congenital conditions can be a deeply emotional and challenging journey. Breast reconstruction offers a transformative solution to help you regain your physical form and emotional well-being, restoring the natural appearance and symmetry of your breasts. By addressing both aesthetic and functional concerns, breast reconstruction can significantly enhance your quality of life and boost your self-confidence. With breast reconstruction at Nashville PSI, you can anticipate the following benefits:

Restored Breast Symmetry: You will achieve a balanced and natural-looking breast appearance, enhancing the overall symmetry of your body.
Enhanced Self-Confidence: Restoring the shape and size of your breasts can significantly improve your body image and boost your self-esteem.
Improved Physical Comfort: Breast reconstruction can alleviate discomfort caused by the loss of breast volume, such as posture issues and back pain.
Customized Aesthetic Results: The procedure is tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring results that align with your vision.
Emotional Healing: Rebuilding your breasts can play a crucial role in your emotional recovery, helping you feel more empowered.
Versatile Reconstruction Options: There are various reconstruction techniques available, including implant-based and tissue-based methods. You can choose the approach that best suits your needs.
Long-Lasting Results: Breast reconstruction provides durable outcomes that can enhance your appearance and comfort for many years to come.

Schedule A Consultation

Is Breast ReconstructionRight for Me?

If you have undergone a mastectomy, experienced trauma, or were born with breast asymmetry, you might be contemplating whether breast reconstruction is the right choice for you. Ideal candidates for breast reconstruction are individuals who wish to restore the natural appearance and symmetry of their breasts to enhance their physical form and emotional well-being. Whether you're seeking to rebuild your breasts after cancer treatment, address congenital anomalies, or correct post-traumatic changes, breast reconstruction can provide you with a renewed sense of balance and confidence.

Other factors that may indicate breast reconstruction is right for you include experiencing feelings of incompleteness or loss related to breast asymmetry, wanting to improve your body image, and desiring to wear certain types of clothing with greater ease and confidence. Additionally, being in good overall health, maintaining a stable weight, and having realistic expectations about the outcomes are important considerations for a successful reconstruction.

Are you considering breast reconstruction in Nashville? If so, please schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Unger at Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute. During your consultation, you can expect the following:

A comprehensive Evaluation: Dr. Unger will assess your medical history, current health status, and specific reconstruction needs to determine the most suitable approach.
A Discussion of Options: You will learn about the various reconstruction techniques available, including implant-based and tissue-based methods, and how each can be tailored to your goals.
A Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your unique anatomy and aesthetic desires, Dr. Unger will develop a customized surgical plan to achieve the best possible results.
The Opportunity to Address Concerns: You will have the chance to ask questions, express your concerns, and gain a clear understanding of the procedure, recovery process, and expected outcomes.

Taking this step allows you to make an informed decision and embark on a journey toward restoring balance and beauty in your life. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care, ensuring you feel supported and confident throughout your breast reconstruction process.

What to Expect: The Breast Reconstruction Process

Initial Consultation

Personalized Discussion: Meet with Dr. Unger to discuss your medical history, reasons for reconstruction, aesthetic goals, and any concerns you may have.
Comprehensive Evaluation: Dr. Unger will perform a thorough examination of your chest area, including the condition of your skin, tissue, and any previous surgeries.
Reconstruction Options Overview: Explore the various breast reconstruction methods available, such as implant-based reconstruction, tissue-based reconstruction, or a combination of both. Dr. Unger will explain the benefits and considerations of each option to help you make an informed decision.
Customized Treatment Plan: Based on your unique needs and preferences, Dr. Unger will develop a tailored surgical plan to achieve the best possible results.

Pre-Surgical Preparation

Medical Clearance: You may need to undergo certain medical tests or evaluations to ensure you are fit for surgery.
Preoperative Instructions: We will provide detailed guidelines on medications to avoid, dietary considerations, smoking cessation, and any necessary lifestyle adjustments to optimize your recovery.
Scheduling Surgery: Our team will assist you in scheduling your procedure at a convenient time and coordinate all necessary arrangements for your surgery day.

Day of Surgery

Admission to Facility: Arrive at our accredited surgical center, where our compassionate staff will ensure you are comfortable and prepared for the procedure.
Anesthesia Administration: You'll meet with the anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options. Breast reconstruction is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure you are asleep and comfortable throughout the surgery.
Surgical Procedure:
- Incision Placement: Depending on the reconstruction method chosen, Dr. Unger will make incisions in strategic locations, such as around the areola, under the breast fold, or in the armpit.
- Reconstruction Technique: Depending on your chosen method, Dr. Unger will either place implants or utilize your tissue (from the abdomen, back, or thighs) to recreate the breast mound.
- Closing Incisions: Incisions are meticulously closed with sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape to minimize scarring and promote optimal healing.
Duration: The surgery typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the reconstruction method used.

Post-Anesthesia Recovery

Monitoring: After surgery, you'll be moved to a recovery area where our medical team will monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia, ensuring your comfort and addressing any immediate needs.
Initial Care Instructions: You'll receive comprehensive instructions on how to care for your reconstruction sites, manage discomfort, and recognize any signs of complications during the initial healing phase.

Discharge

Going Home: Breast reconstruction is usually an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home the same day. It’s essential to have someone accompany you and assist you during the first 24 hours post-surgery.
Post-Operative Kit: We will provide you with the necessary supplies and detailed instructions for at-home care, including guidelines specific to your reconstruction method and recovery needs.

Breast Reconstruction Recovery & Results

Recovering after your breast reconstruction at Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute involves a combination of rest, careful self-care, and regular follow-up with our medical team to ensure optimal healing and the best possible results. Immediately after surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the chest area, which is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Wearing a supportive surgical bra is essential during the initial recovery period to minimize swelling and provide necessary support to your reconstructed breasts.

In the first few days post-surgery, it's important to rest and limit physical activities to promote healing. You should avoid lifting heavy objects, strenuous exercise, and any movements that might strain your chest muscles. Most patients can resume light daily activities within a week, but it's advisable to take additional time off work if your job involves physical labor or long periods of standing.

Over the next few weeks, swelling and bruising will gradually decrease, and your reconstructed breasts will begin to settle into their new shape. You will notice a significant improvement in both the appearance and comfort of your chest as the tissues heal and adapt to their new form. Incision lines will fade over time, becoming less noticeable with proper care and adherence to post-operative instructions.

Full recovery from breast reconstruction typically occurs within 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the procedure and your body's healing response. During this period, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular, gentle exercise, can support the longevity of your reconstruction results. Additionally, following Dr. Unger's recommendations and wearing appropriate support garments will enhance skin elasticity and the overall appearance of your breasts.

The results of breast reconstruction are designed to be long-lasting, providing you with a natural-looking and symmetrical chest that complements your body. Regular follow-up appointments will help us monitor the integrity of your reconstruction, especially if implants were used, to ensure that everything is healing as expected and to address any concerns promptly. By adhering to the post-operative care plan and maintaining open communication with our team, you can enjoy the full benefits of your breast reconstruction, experiencing both physical relief and renewed confidence in your appearance.

Why Choose Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute?

At Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute, Dr. Jacob Unger is a highly qualified expert in breast reconstruction, bringing extensive specialized training and a commitment to innovative techniques to every procedure. After graduating from the prestigious University of Texas Southwestern plastic surgery residency program, Dr. Unger further advanced his expertise through an international fellowship in Paris, where he mastered cutting-edge reconstructive breast surgery methods. His dedication to excellence is demonstrated by his role as the inventor of the U.S.-patented Natrelle Fourté expander fill system, a widely adopted innovation that enhances breast reconstruction outcomes for breast cancer patients nationwide.

Dr. Unger’s dedication to research and education underscores his position as a leader in the field. As an associate professor at Vanderbilt University, he is actively involved in training the next generation of plastic surgeons and contributing to significant advancements in breast reconstruction through his numerous peer-reviewed publications. His extensive experience, combined with a compassionate approach to patient care, ensures that each breast reconstruction at Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute is personalized to meet your unique needs and aesthetic goals. By choosing us, you are entrusting your transformation to a surgeon who prioritizes both your physical restoration and emotional well-being, delivering outstanding results with the highest standards of care.

Are you ready to restore balance and beauty to your breasts? If so, please schedule a consultation with Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute today.

Frequently Asked Questions Breast Reconstruction

What Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery is a comprehensive surgical procedure designed to restore the natural appearance and symmetry of the breasts following mastectomy, trauma, or congenital conditions. This surgery aims to rebuild the breast mound using implants or the patient’s own tissue, enhancing both aesthetic appearance and emotional well-being.

Am I A Good Candidate For Breast Reconstruction?

Ideal candidates for breast reconstruction are individuals who have undergone mastectomy due to breast cancer, trauma, or congenital conditions and wish to restore the natural look and feel of their breasts. Being in good overall health, maintaining a stable weight, and having realistic expectations about the outcomes are important factors in determining candidacy.

What Types Of Breast Reconstruction Are Available?

There are primarily two types of breast reconstruction: implant-based reconstruction and tissue-based reconstruction. Implant-based reconstruction uses breast implants, such as Motiva Implants, to recreate the breast mound. Tissue-based reconstruction, also known as autologous or flap reconstruction, utilizes the patient’s own tissue from areas like the abdomen, back, or thighs to form a new breast.

How Long Does Breast Reconstruction Surgery Take?

The duration of breast reconstruction surgery varies depending on the type of procedure. Implant-based reconstruction typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, while tissue-based reconstruction can take 4 to 8 hours. Complex cases or combined procedures may require longer surgery times.

What Is The Recovery Time After Breast Reconstruction?

Recovery time varies based on the type of reconstruction performed. Most patients can return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks after implant-based reconstruction and within 4 to 6 weeks after tissue-based reconstruction. Full recovery and final results may take several months as swelling decreases and tissues heal.

Will There Be Visible Scars After Breast Reconstruction?

Yes, breast reconstruction involves surgical incisions, which will result in scars. However, skilled surgeons like Dr. Unger place incisions in discreet locations to minimize their visibility. Over time, with proper care, these scars typically fade and become less noticeable.

How Long Do The Results Of Breast Reconstruction Last?

The results of breast reconstruction are designed to be long-lasting. Implants, such as Motiva Implants®, are durable but may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years. Tissue-based reconstructions generally provide more permanent results, but aging and weight fluctuations can affect the appearance over time.

Can Breast Reconstruction Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes, breast reconstruction can be combined with other procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift (mastopexy), or nipple reduction to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. Combining procedures can enhance symmetry and improve overall breast appearance.

What Are The Risks Associated With Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, breast reconstruction carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, implant leakage or rupture, capsular contracture, and changes in nipple or breast sensation. Dr. Unger will discuss all potential risks and how to minimize them during your consultation.

How Much Does Breast Reconstruction Surgery Cost?

The cost of breast reconstruction varies based on factors such as the type of reconstruction, surgical technique, implant choice, and facility fees. A detailed quote will be provided during your consultation. Financing options may also be available to help make the procedure more affordable.

Will Insurance Cover Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery is often covered by insurance, especially when performed following a mastectomy due to breast cancer. However, coverage can vary depending on the insurance provider and specific policy details. Our team can assist you in understanding your insurance benefits and options.

How Do I Prepare For Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Preparation for breast reconstruction may include undergoing medical evaluations, adjusting current medications, quitting smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery. Dr. Unger will provide detailed preoperative instructions tailored to your situation to ensure the best possible outcome and smooth recovery.

When Can I Return To Work After Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Most patients can return to work within 2 to 4 weeks after breast reconstruction surgery, depending on the nature of their job and the type of reconstruction performed. If your work involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may need to take additional time off or modify your duties temporarily.

Can I Breastfeed After Breast Reconstruction?

Breastfeeding after breast reconstruction may be possible, depending on the type of reconstruction and implant placement. If breastfeeding is a priority, discuss your plans with Dr. Unger during your consultation to choose the surgical approach that best preserves your ability to breastfeed.