Achieve Balance and Symmetry after Breast Reconstruction
After a unilateral, or one-sided, breast reconstruction procedure, some patients may experience asymmetry between the reconstructed breast and the natural breast. Some cases may be inconspicuous, however, others can be easily corrected with advanced surgical techniques. Dr. Ravi Tandon understands the importance of balanced results and has dedicated his career to helping his patients achieve their ultimate goals. At our New Orleans, LA, practice, we can refine the shape, size, and position of reconstructed breasts or adjust untreated breasts to match.
Unilateral Breast Reconstruction
Before beginning the second stage of your reconstruction, you will sit down with Dr. Tandon to discuss your goals and concerns. He will look at how you have healed since the initial procedure and recommend the best way to achieve greater symmetry. He may recommend techniques such as:
- Breast reduction
- Breast lift
- Fat grafting
- Breast augmentation
In cases of a unilateral reconstruction, Dr. Tandon may recommend alterations to your natural breast, especially after a reconstruction involving an implant.
Determining Your Candidacy
It is important that you first discuss additional surgery with your oncologist. Dr. Tandon can perform corrective surgery for healthy women who had bilateral reconstructions, where both breasts were affected, or unilateral reconstructions, where only one was treated. This procedure is also available after both natural tissue reconstruction or implant reconstruction. Depending on the type of procedure performed, Dr. Tandon can design a treatment plan that suits your unique needs.
Second-Stage Reconstruction
This type of surgery is typically an outpatient procedure. It is performed after you have healed from the initial phase of your breast reconstruction, which typically takes about three or four months. In many ways, the surgery is considered a “touch-up” to refine the results achieved in the first procedure and provide you with the smooth, balanced figure you desire.
Dr. Tandon is skilled at achieving a balanced result after a reconstruction procedure.
It is important to keep in mind that most women’s breasts are naturally asymmetrical. Usually, this difference is inconspicuous. In the case of reconstruction, the aesthetic or textural differences may be more immediately apparent. Dr. Tandon uses advanced techniques to ensure only the most natural-looking results. He can refine the size, shape, and projection of one or both breasts.
The Recovery Process
In general, we recommend you take at least a week off from work and your normal activities, so you can get plenty of rest. You will likely feel tired and your breasts will probably feel sore or tender for at least the first 24 to 48 hours. You should avoid any strenuous activities, especially those involving lifting or pushing, for about six weeks after your procedure. Dr. Tandon can provide you with specific instructions based on your treatment plan.
Take the Next Step
If you underwent a breast reconstruction surgery and want to refine your results, our team is here for you. Dr. Tandon is a compassionate and skilled breast reconstruction surgeon who is dedicated to helping patients restore their confidence in their figures. Contact our office online or call (504) 455-1000 to speak to a member of our team today.
