Cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery are surgical procedures that involve the breasts. Cosmetic breast surgery improves the appearance of the breasts. This may involve increasing the size of the breasts, changing the shape, or improving the symmetry. Reconstructive breast surgery helps restore the shape and appearance of your breasts following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Matthew J. Lynch MD can also perform these surgeries as part of breast cancer treatment.
Cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgeries can be life-changing for you and provide physical and emotional benefits. However, it is important to note that these surgeries are personal decisions that should be carefully considered.
Cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery evaluation
Before undergoing either cosmetic or reconstructive breast surgery, it is important to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your needs, goals, and medical history to determine if surgery is right for you.
For cosmetic breast surgery, the surgeon will discuss your desired outcomes and help you understand what results are achievable. The doctor will also assess the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts and the quality of your skin and tissue.
For reconstructive breast surgery, the surgeon will evaluate the extent of breast tissue removed during the mastectomy or lumpectomy and assess the available tissue for reconstruction.
These are some of the reasons to consider cosmetic or reconstructive breast surgery:
- Improve the appearance of your breasts: If you feel unhappy with the size, shape, or appearance, cosmetic breast surgery can help you achieve the desired look. The surgeon can discuss the options, such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift, and help you choose the best one for your goals.
- Correct asymmetrical breasts: If your breasts are uneven in size or shape, breast surgery can correct the asymmetry and create a more balanced appearance. The surgeon can assess the extent of the asymmetry and recommend the most appropriate surgical technique, including breast augmentation, breast reduction, or a combination of both.
- Restore breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss: Pregnancy and weight loss can cause a loss of breast volume, leaving you with sagging or deflated breasts. Breast surgery can restore fullness to your breasts and improve their position. Depending on your specific needs, the surgeon may recommend breast augmentation, breast lift, or a combination of both to achieve the desired results.
- Reconstruct breasts after breast cancer treatment: If you have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy for breast cancer treatment, reconstructive breast surgery can help restore the shape and appearance of your breasts. The surgeon can discuss the options for breast reconstruction, such as using implants or your tissue, and help you make an informed decision based on your needs.
Here are some different types of cosmetic or reconstructive breast surgery:
- Breast augmentation: This cosmetic surgery involves using implants to increase the size and enhance the shape of the breasts.
- Breast reduction: To make the breasts smaller, extra skin and tissue are removed during this surgical procedure.
- Breast lift: In order to lift and firm the breasts, this entails removing extra skin and reshaping the breast tissue.
It’s advised to consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and determine if surgery is right for you.
