Natural Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction New Jersey

What is Breast Tissue Reconstruction?

Breast tissue reconstruction is a surgical procedure aimed at rebuilding the shape and appearance of the breast after a mastectomy (surgical removal of the breast). This procedure can help restore a more natural look and feel to the breast, which can be important for emotional and psychological well-being.

There are two main types of breast tissue reconstruction:

• Autologous Tissue Reconstruction: Using tissue from another part of the patient’s body, such as the abdomen, back, or thighs, to create a new breast.
• Implant-Based Reconstruction: Using breast implants to recreate the breast shape

Types of Tissue-Based Breast Reconstructions

There are several types of tissue-based breast reconstructions, each using tissue from different parts of the body to create a new breast shape:

• Latissimus Dorsi (LD) Flap: Uses muscle, skin, and fat from the back.
• Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muscle (TRAM) Flap: Uses muscle, skin, and fat from the abdomen.
• DIEP Flap: Uses skin, fat, and blood vessels from the abdomen while preserving the muscle.
• Gluteal Free Flap: Uses tissue from the buttocks.
• Inner Thigh Flap: Uses tissue from the inner thigh.

Each type has its own benefits and considerations, such as recovery time and the appearance of scars.

Benefits of Tissue-Based Breast Flaps

Tissue-based breast flaps offer several benefits for those undergoing breast reconstruction:

• Natural Look and Feel: These reconstructions use your own tissue, providing a more natural appearance and texture compared to implants.
• Long-Lasting Results: Once healed, tissue-based reconstructions typically do not require the maintenance or potential replacement associated with implants.
• Body Contouring: The process often involves tissue removal from areas like the abdomen or thighs, which can result in a more contoured body shape in those areas.
• Less Risk of Rejection: Since the tissue used is from your own body, there is a lower risk of rejection or allergic reaction.
• Improved Sensation: Over time, some sensation may return to the reconstructed breast, which is less likely with implants.

Each method has its own set of considerations, but the overall goal is to achieve a balance of aesthetics and health benefits.

Reconstruction from the Abdomen

One procedure we commonly perform is called the DIEP flap. We take the extra tissue from your tummy that would be thrown away in a tummy tuck and use that tissue to make a new breast. This can be done on one side or on both breasts. In some cases, the right decision for the patient is to take a portion of the muscle as well. This is called a TRAM flap.

In some cases when a patient has a relatively small tummy, we can use the entire abdomen to make one breast, also known as a stacked DIEP flap.

Reconstruction from the Back, Thighs or Buttock

We can also take tissue from the back, thighs or buttock if the abdomen is not an option. When the muscle and tissue are taken from the back, this is called a latissimus flap. There are several options for tissue from other sites, including a PAP flap from the upper thigh/lower buttock area.

Combination with Lymphedema Procedures

This procedure can also be combined with a lymph node axillary or armpit reconstruction for patients with lymphedema.

Related Procedures

• Breast Augmentation
• Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
• Breast Reconstruction
• Diep Flap
• Breast Reduction
• Breast Implant Removal
• Non-Abdominal Flap Reconstruction
• Breast Reconstruction Surgery Post Mastectomy
• Fat Grafting
• Implant-Based Reconstruction

Restore your breasts after breast cancer treatment with tissue-based reconstruction. Regain your confidence and femininity. Contact Rowe Plastic Surgery in NJ.

Schedule My Consultation

If you’re ready to schedule your tissue-based reconstruction surgery or simply want to learn more about the procedures, our doctors can give you the answers and reassurance you need to make the decision that’s right for you. To schedule your private consultation, call 212-628-7300.

212-628-7300