There are two broad categories of breast reconstruction for mastectomy. There is expander-implant reconstruction and autologous flap reconstruction. Tissue expander and implant reconstruction is often selected in patients who have not undergone radiation therapy. At the time of mastectomy, a tissue expander is placed at the location of the mastectomy pocket and often in conjunction with an acellular dermal matrix…
Patients often undergo unilateral mastectomy. In these patients, depending upon the status of the contralateral breast, the contralateral breast is often best matched with a reconstruction using the patients own body tissues. Depending on previous surgery and on previous radiation, a small portion of the abdominal skin may be transferred to the mastectomy site, not only to monitor the blood…
DIEP Flap Breast reconstruction is a unique opportunity for the breast cancer patient to loose weight. Prior to flap reconstruction, we instruct our patients to consume 80-100 grams of protein per day. There are a significant number of incisions that require healing with DIEP flap breast reconstruction and typically the metabolic rate increases after DIEP flap breast reconstruction as the…
Gluteal fat transfer can be very rewarding for the patient. Patients who have a high satisfaction rate have lower lumbar lipodystrophy as well as a lordotic spine posture. Patients wear a compression garment, abdominal binder, and/or faha beneath the compression garment. The more compliant patients are with the compression garments, the better results they acheive. Patients are allowed to sit…
