Breast Reconstruction

The First Step!
Choose a Surgeon You Can Trust

Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures safe and successful results. Look for a surgeon certified by the Mexican Council of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and a full member of the Mexican Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. These credentials demonstrate the surgeon’s expertise and commitment to staying current with the latest surgical advancements.

What Should You Know?

Breast reconstruction is a physically and emotionally rewarding procedure for women who have lost a breast due to an accident or cancer. The creation of a new breast dramatically enhances body image, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.

Is This Procedure Right for Me?

Breast reconstruction is a highly personalized procedure that should be done for yourself, not to meet someone else’s expectations. You may be a good candidate if:

• You are physically healthy.
• You have completed or are adhering to your oncological treatment plan.
• You do not smoke or smoke very little.
• You have realistic expectations.

During your initial consultation:

• I will evaluate your health and inquire about any medications you are taking.
• I will examine the size, shape, and skin quality of your chest area.
• I will listen closely to your concerns and expectations.
• I will explain the potential techniques, associated risks, and costs.
• Your case will be documented to establish reference points before, during, and after surgery.

The surgical technique will depend on the size and shape of your healthy breast, the size and position of your areolas, and the quality of your skin.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

1. Anesthesia:
   • The procedure may involve intravenous sedation with local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery. I will recommend the best option for you.
2. Reconstruction Techniques:
   • Skin Expanders and Implants:
     • Small incisions, approximately 4 cm long, are made in the breast.
     • Skin expanders are used for 4–6 months, after which the implant is placed.
   • Tissue Flap Reconstruction:
     • Muscle Flaps: Tissue from your back (including muscle and fat) is rotated to reconstruct the breast, leaving incisions about 12 cm long on the back and breast.
     • Fat and Skin Flaps: Tissue from the pubic area (similar to a cesarean scar) is used, with incisions at the pubic area and on the reconstructed breast.
3. Shaping and Nipple Reconstruction:
   • The reconstructed breast is shaped to improve contour and firmness.
   • The nipple is reconstructed as the final step.
4. Closure:
   • The incisions are closed, and the breast begins to take its new shape.

The results are immediately visible, although swelling may persist for about four weeks. The final appearance can be assessed around the eighth week.

Important Information

• You will require at least one day of hospitalization, and depending on the technique used, up to five days.
• Mild discomfort is expected but can be managed with prescribed medication.
• Open communication is essential—ask any questions you have about the procedure.

Recovery

• You will need to wear a special bra full-time for at least three weeks and then at night only. This helps reduce swelling and supports faster healing.
• Sutures will begin to be removed after seven days and will be fully removed within 10–14 days.

Your Results

The final shape of your reconstructed breast will be evident around four weeks after surgery. Initially, scars will appear pink and firm but will fade and become nearly invisible within six months.

The results of your breast reconstruction are permanent, provided you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. You will be thrilled with your restored and confident new look!