After a mastectomy, many women feel as though they’ve lost a part of their feminine identity. One of the reasons Dr. LoTempio chose to perform breast surgery and breast reconstruction is that this is a very personal form of surgery.

Breast cancer is a devastating condition that is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States after skin cancer. Although in many instances it may be treatable, often this involves removing all parts of the affected breast in a process known as a lumpectomy (partial removal) or mastectomy (full mastectomy). Sometimes a patient who has been affected by breast cancer in one breast, or is at high risk of developing breast cancer in the future, will elect to have both breasts removed in a double mastectomy as a preventative measure.

The loss of either a single or both breasts can have a distressing impact. For many women, their breasts are symbolic of their femininity, helping them to feel womanly and attractive. In addition to dealing with the effects of breast cancer, breast removal can cause a blow to the patient’s confidence and self-esteem. However, there is a solution. Breast reconstruction at LoTempio Plastic Surgery in Manhattan, NY can restore a cancer survivor’s shape and help her to feel fabulous once more.

Breast reconstruction with Dr. LoTempio

Dr. LoTempio understands the overwhelming and sensitive journey taken by individuals who suffer from breast cancer, and it is dedicated to providing patients with both the cosmetic solution and emotional support needed during reconstruction surgery. Dr. LoTempio will work with you to restore your identity so that you can embrace your body once more.

Dr. LoTempio uses live skin and fatty tissue from other parts of the body, including the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, and employs microsurgical techniques to reattach the blood vessels and nerves to tissues in the breast for a truly natural breast that both looks and feels amazing without the use of prosthetic implants.

Dr. LoTempio performs microsurgical breast reconstruction procedures including:

DIEP Flap – where the skin and tissue to reconstruct the breast is taken from the abdomen.

SIEA Flap – skin and tissue are taken from the abdomen, but the blood vessels are taken from the lower abdomen, just beneath the skin.

PAP Flap – in the PAP flap procedure, the skin is taken from the posterior thigh, which also gives patients the benefit of a mini thigh lift.

TUG Flap – skin and tissue are taken from the inner upper thigh, which again can give patients the appearance of an inner thigh lift.

SGAP Flap – this is where skin, fat, and blood vessels are taken from the gluteal area via a small incision on the upper part of the buttock.

I-GAP Flap – the I-GAP flap procedure takes skin and fat from the lower buttock, and the scar is neatly hidden in the crease under the cheek.

How soon after my mastectomy can I have reconstructive surgery?

We understand that you may be keen to undergo reconstructive surgery as soon as possible after your lumpectomy or mastectomy. Although this is possible in some cases, if you require further treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy, it is normally advisable to wait until these have finished before undergoing breast reconstruction. We strongly recommend that you consult with your oncologist to determine when the best time to begin the reconstructive process is, and we will adhere to these guidelines so that you can obtain the best possible result from your surgery.

Whether you are suffering from breast cancer and are anticipating a lumpectomy or mastectomy, are considering an elective mastectomy, or if you have had your breasts removed in the past, Dr. LoTempio can help you by restoring your shape and giving you back the confidence that you deserve. To find out more, please contact our Manhattan, NY plastic surgery office today at 347-434-8600.