Breast Reconstruction
in Philadelphia, PA

At Main Line Plastic Surgery, we offer the latest breast reconstruction techniques, helping women restore their natural, youthful contours after a mastectomy or other breast issues. As time goes on, breasts can take on changes due to certain medical conditions or age. This can significantly affect a patient’s self-esteem. But thanks to advanced breast reconstruction techniques, it is possible to achieve more balance and symmetry.Our specialist, Dr. Raymond D. Jean, is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a wide range of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. He strives to help patients regain their confidence. Our expertise and personalized approach ensure optimal results tailored to each patient’s aesthetic goals.

Breast Reconstruction in Philadelphia, PA

table of contents

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast Reconstruction Options & Techniques

Breast Reconstruction Procedure Explained

Recovery After a Breast Reconstruction

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Candidates for a Breast Reconstruction

Cost of a Breast Reconstruction in Philadelphia, PA

Main Line Plastic Surgery Is the Best Destination for a Breast Reconstruction in Philadelphia, PA

Table of Contents

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast Reconstruction Options & Techniques

Breast Reconstruction Procedure Explained

Recovery After a Breast Reconstruction

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Candidates for a Breast Reconstruction

Cost of a Breast Reconstruction in Philadelphia, PA

Main Line Plastic Surgery Is the Best Destination for a Breast Reconstruction in Philadelphia, PA

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a type of surgery that helps restore their shape, appearance, and symmetry after breast cancer surgery, mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts), or injury. During this procedure, Dr. Jean uses various advanced techniques to rebuild the mound of the breast. He does this either with implants or with the patient’s own tissue. The aim is to reconstruct a naturally appearing shape and size that matches the patient’s desire and restores their body confidence.

Breast reconstruction goes beyond aesthetics. It plays a critical role in emotional recovery by restoring women’s self-esteem. Depending on what would work best for the patient, including their conditions and preferences, the procedure may take different forms, such as flap surgery or implant placement. In some cases, the nipple and areola may also be reconstructed for a more complete result.

Breast Reconstruction Options & Techniques

At Main Line Plastic Surgery, we offer two main breast reconstruction options: flap and implant-based. Each one is suited to the patient’s needs:

Flap Reconstruction

During this type of reconstruction, tissue from another part of the patient’s body is used to create a new breast. They may be moved from the abdomen, thigh, or back. Common types of flap reconstruction include:

DIEP Flap: Tissue taken includes the abdomen up to skin and fat, leaving the blood vessels intact without removing muscle.
TRAM Flap: In this case, tissue and muscle from the abdomen are utilized.
Latissimus Dorsi (LD) Flap: This involves taking tissue and muscle from the back.
IGAP and SGAP Flaps: Buttock tissue with no muscle.
PAP and TUG Flaps: Tissue from the thigh, with or without muscle.
SIEA Flap: Same procedure as DIEP flap but with the use of different vessels.

Breast Implants

During this procedure, silicone gel, gummy bear, or saline breast implants are placed to rebuild tissues. Techniques include:

Under the Muscle: The implant is placed under the muscle of the chest for a natural feel and look.
Over the Muscle: The implant is placed over the chest muscle. Recovery time is faster.
Implant with Tissue Expander: An expander is placed under the skin and is gradually inflated with saline to expand it as needed for the implant.

Before & After

Gallery

We take pride in helping our patients achieve fully personalized outcomes. Visit our gallery to view real patient results.

Breast Reconstruction Procedure Explained

Recovery from a mini tummy tuck is generally quicker and less intensive compared to a full tummy tuck. The healing process is a gradual journey that requires patience, careful adherence to post-operative instructions, and close communication with Dr. Jean and medical team.

Initial Consultation and Testing

At the initial consultation, Dr. Jean meets with the patient and discusses what will work best for them. He reviews options for anesthesia and gives an approximate cost of the entire procedure. Our breast surgeon also carefully reviews the patient’s medical history and orders tests, which may include blood work, mammograms, and an EKG. These tests help ensure that the patient is in good health for surgery and can safely proceed with the procedure. Diabetes, chronic conditions, or breast cancer are some of the contraindications considered before moving forward.

The Surgery

Marking and Anesthesia: On the day of the surgery, Dr. Jean marks the breast area where he is going to make an incision. Then, our anesthesiologist gives the patient anesthesia so that they would not feel any pain or discomfort during the operation.

Incisions and Reconstruction: Next, Dr. Jean makes precise incisions, either building a breast mound with tissue from the patient’s own body or placing implants. The tissue is then repositioned to form a natural-appearing breast, paying attention to symmetry and contour. In some cases, nipple and areola reconstruction are also performed.

Closure of the Incisions: After achieving the desired results, our specialist carefully stitches the incisions. The time of the procedure may vary. Usually, it takes a number of hours, depending on the extent of the reconstruction method to be used.

Recovery After a Breast Reconstruction

Immediate Recovery

After a breast reconstruction surgery, patients often stay in our comfortable care facility for observation. This allows us to monitor their recovery as they wake up from anesthesia and begin their initial healing process. While some discomfort and swelling can be anticipated, we admit our patients to the necessary medications to reduce pain and make the recovery process smoother. Most patients can go home within several hours. Still, some stay overnight under our close observation.

Initial Weeks

In the initial weeks after the operation, the patient can be instructed to wear a particular type of support bra or compression garments. It can help reduce swelling, comfort, and support healing. Dr. Jean may also prescribe antibiotics to avoid any possibility of infection. Stitches can be removed within one or two weeks. However, a patient cannot start any form of physical activity like lifting, exercise, or saunas for at least two weeks. To heal properly, they should follow such instructions strictly.

Long-Term Results

Over the following three to four months, the swelling will continue to reduce while the real contours of the reconstructed breasts start to show. It takes time for the body to begin healing and getting accustomed to the new shape. When the swelling totally disappears and breast reconstruction recovery finishes, the patient can already appreciate the result of their surgery: regained confidence with balanced and natural-appearing breasts.

Candidates for a Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction surgery is usually performed on women who have undergone mastectomy or significant breast changes. The following are the key elements that make one a suitable candidate for this surgery:

Mastectomy or Severe Breast Changes:

The best candidates for breast reconstruction are usually women who have undergone mastectomy because of breast cancer and other related conditions. The procedure involves rebuilding the breast mound and creating a more natural-appearing breast.

Good Overall Health:

Having good health will ensure that patients recover smoothly without many complications. Preexisting conditions, such as heart disease or uncontrolled diabetes, should be stabilized prior to surgery.

Stable Weight:

It is always better if the patient has a stable weight prior to the reconstruction. Considerable weight fluctuations following surgery can alter the final appearance of the reconstructed breasts.

Realistic Expectations:

Patients must understand that they could be unable to completely mimic the pre-operated size and shape.

Non-smokers:

Nicotine takes a longer time to recover and might develop complications. Thus, candidates must be non-smokers or at least quit smoking four weeks before the procedure.

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Restored Breast Shape

After mastectomy or injury, it is important for women to have symmetrical and firm breasts. They can be achieved through breast reconstruction surgery. During the procedure, the breast mound is recreated using either autologous tissue or implants to give back the original youthful and natural form. This is quite important for emotional and physical renewal.

Improved Nipple and Areola Position

Nipple and areola reconstruction or repositioning are also part of breast reconstruction. Nipples are relocated by surgeons higher on the chest in a position that is more natural, improving aesthetics. It also helps reduce discomfort that may be associated with very tight skin clothes. Therefore, it leads to better outcomes with regard to comfort and appearance.

Increased Confidence

Breast reconstruction is a procedure that can change the lives of numerous women. The main reason is that it gives them confidence and makes them feel good about their bodies. The surgery restores the natural look of the breasts. This, in turn, makes women feel “whole” again, therefore increasing their self-esteem and well-being. What is more, it plays a great role in intimate settings.

Long-Lasting Results

Surgery results can be long-lasting if they are well taken care of. Keeping a constant weight, which is not easily achievable, is important for maintaining the shape of the reconstructed breast over the year. Thus, patients who follow good health practices that consist of proper nutrition and routine exercises done on a daily basis can enjoy benefits for a long time.

Improved Quality of Life

The procedure goes further than just improving how someone looks. It can make the patient feel better and give them a new lease of life. Women may feel some pain or emotional trauma after having their breasts removed through mastectomy. Fortunately, this type of surgery can correct physical restrictions, elevate self-image, and return theirfemininity. Most of the women are able to improve their sexual and social life.

Cost of a Breast Reconstruction in Philadelphia, PA

The average cost of breast reconstruction surgery in Philadelphia, PA, typically ranges between $7,000 and $20,000. It covers expenses for the surgeon’s work, anesthesia, operation room, and after-surgery treatments. The price may also be influenced by other factors, such as the complexity of a procedure, its technique, and whether other operations are done (e.g. breast reduction surgery). Patients can get an individualized quote by making appointments for consultations with Dr. Raymond D. Jean. Often this surgical procedure is covered by insurance.

Main Line Plastic Surgery Is the Best Destination for a Breast Reconstruction in Philadelphia, PA

At Main Line Plastic Surgery, we provide compassionate and individualized attention for all patients. With Dr. Jean’s skill in reconstructive surgery, everyone can be sure that they will get the highest quality work. We take every precaution to ensure that our patients are safe, comfortable, and satisfied. Utilizing cutting-edge surgical approaches while focusing on creating breasts that appear natural makes us the number one spot for breast reconstruction across Philadelphia.