Name: Breast Reconstruction
Brand: Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery
Rating: 4.7 (246 reviews)

Restore Hope and Confidence

Breast cancer is a devastating disease that permeates every segment of our society. One in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives. These women are our daughters, mothers, wives, sisters, and friends. With multiple treatment modalities for breast cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, the female breast is inevitably affected by this diagnosis. In response, plastic surgeons have spent decades advancing and perfecting breast reconstruction techniques. At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, we take this disease and treatment very personally. Dr. Durkin’s family has a strong history of breast cancer, which has affected him and his family for generations. We stay current and up-to-date with all modalities of breast reconstruction, offering the most cutting-edge techniques in the world. Whether you’re seeking breast reconstruction in Vero Beach or Pompano Beach, our team is here to support you.

Understanding Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to restore the shape, appearance, and size of the breast following mastectomy (removal of the entire breast) or lumpectomy (removal of part of the breast). At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, we recognize that not all breast defects are equal and offer multiple techniques to address various needs.

Lumpectomy Defects

A lumpectomy involves the removal of a tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue. When evaluating lumpectomy defects, the first question is whether radiation therapy was received. Radiation therapy is a proven modality for breast cancer treatment but can decrease the breast’s ability to heal post-surgery. Depending on the extent of radiation damage, different reconstruction options are available.

Structural Fat Grafting: This approach involves removing fat from other areas of the body, purifying it, and injecting it into the lumpectomy defect. In appropriate candidates, this technique can achieve good to excellent results.
Mastopexy: Vertical mastopexy or inverted T mastopexy may be options for women with less extensive radiation damage.
Completion Mastectomy: In cases where significant radiation damage is present, a completion mastectomy followed by flap reconstruction may be necessary.

Mastectomy

Mastectomy is the medical term for the removal of the entire breast. There are multiple approaches to mastectomy, each suited to different stages and types of breast cancer.

Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: This technique is used for LCIS, DCIS, or early-stage invasive ductal carcinoma that is unicentric. Only the breast tissue and a minimum of skin are removed, preserving the nipple and areola.
Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: The nipple-areolar complex is removed with minimal skin, minimizing subsequent scarring. This approach is suitable for most stages of breast cancer, except in cases of inflammatory breast cancer.
Standard Mastectomy: A horizontal or diagonal incision is used to remove all breast tissue and reduce the skin envelope. This approach is often offered to women with large, pendulous breasts and excess skin.

The decision on the type of mastectomy is made in conjunction with the patient and the input of an oncologic breast surgeon. At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, we only associate with board-certified breast surgeons to ensure the highest quality of care.

Types of Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction can be performed using different techniques tailored to your needs and medical condition. At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, we offer the following types of breast reconstruction:

Implant-Based Reconstruction: This method involves the use of saline or silicone implants to recreate the breast mound. It can be done immediately following mastectomy or as a staged procedure.
Autologous Tissue Reconstruction: Also known as flap reconstruction, this technique uses tissue from other parts of your body, such as the abdomen, back, or thighs, to reconstruct the breast. Common types include DIEP flap, TRAM flap, and latissimus dorsi flap.
Combination Reconstruction: Sometimes, a combination of implants and autologous tissue is used to achieve the best results.

The Breast Reconstruction Process

Understanding the steps involved in breast reconstruction can help you prepare for the journey ahead. When embarking on breast reconstruction in Vero Beach & Pompano Beach at Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, you can generally expect the following steps in the process:

Consultation: During your initial consultation, Dr. Durkin will evaluate your medical history, discuss your goals and concerns, and recommend the best reconstruction options.
Surgery: Depending on the chosen technique, the surgery may be performed in stages. Dr. Durkin will work closely with your oncologic surgeon to ensure seamless coordination.
Recovery: Recovery times vary based on the type of reconstruction. Our team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and support you throughout healing.
Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your progress and address concerns. We are committed to your long-term well-being.

Why Choose Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery?

At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, we take a comprehensive and compassionate approach to breast reconstruction. We aim to provide the best choices and results in modern aesthetic plastic surgery. We believe in taking this journey together, ensuring your privacy, comfort, and satisfaction are always at the forefront of everything we do.

Dr. Durkin is a dual-board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast reconstruction. We offer the most cutting-edge techniques to ensure optimal outcomes. We take the time to evaluate each patient’s unique needs and develop a customized treatment plan. From consultation to recovery, we provide continuous support and care to help you through every step of your journey.

Breast cancer is a challenging journey, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to helping you reclaim your body and your confidence through breast reconstruction. Whether you’re located in Vero Beach, Pompano Beach, or looking to travel to our beachside oasis from elsewhere, we are ready to welcome you with open arms. Let’s restore your hope and confidence–schedule your consultation at Ocean Drive now.

Dr. Durkin, plastic surgeon in Vero Beach, FL

Breast Reconstruction Vero Beach & Pompano Beach