Breast reconstruction is a highly personal journey. Whether you are preparing for a mastectomy, have already completed breast cancer treatment, or are seeking revision of a previous reconstruction, the Department of Plastic Surgery is here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions.

Our board-certified plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated, compassionate care throughout every stage of treatment. We recognize that every patient's goals, medical history, and cancer treatment are different, and we develop an individualized reconstruction plan that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Our goal is to restore not only the appearance of the breast, but also your confidence, comfort, and quality of life.

The Department of Plastic Surgery offers the full spectrum of breast reconstruction procedures using the latest evidence-based techniques. We provide care for patients seeking immediate reconstruction at the time of mastectomy, delayed reconstruction after cancer treatment, and revision of previous reconstruction. 

Implant-Based Reconstruction 

Implant reconstruction uses saline or silicone breast implants to recreate the breast shape. Depending on your treatment plan, reconstruction may be completed in one stage or involve tissue expansion before implant placement.

Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction

Autologous reconstruction uses your own tissue - most commonly from the abdomen, thigh, or back - to create a breast that looks and feels natural. Many of these procedures use advanced microsurgical techniques to reconnect tiny blood vessels and preserve healthy tissue. 

Oncoplastic Reconstruction

For patients undergoing lumpectomy, oncoplastic surgery combines cancer removal with reconstructive techniques to preserve breast shape while maintaining excellent cancer care. 

Revision Breast Reconstruction

Over time, some patients may desire or require additional surgery to improve symmetry, replace implants, address implant complications, or enhance the appearance and comfort of a previous reconstruction. 

Advanced Reconstructive Techniques

Our surgeons also offer:

• Microsurgical free flap reconstruction 

• Nipple-sparing and skin-sparing reconstruction

• Fat grafting

• Sensory nerve reconstruction, when appropriate

• Reconstruction after prophylactic mastectomy for patients at increased genetic risk

• Surgical treatment of implant-related complications

Our breast reconstruction specialists care for patients with a wide range of reconstructive needs, including:

• Breast cancer requiring mastectomy

• Breast deformity following lumpectomy

• Genetic risk for breast cancer requiring preventative mastectomy

• Congenital breast asymmetry or developmental differences

• Implant complications, including capsular contracture or implant rupture

• Unsatisfactory results from previous breast reconstruction 

• Breast asymmetry following cancer treatment

• Soft tissue deformities following surgery or radiation therapy

Treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation to review your diagnosis, cancer treatment plan, medical history, and personal goals. Your surgeon will discuss the advantages and considerations of each reconstructive option and work with you to determine the approach that best fits your needs. 

Choosing where to receive breast reconstruction is an important decision. The Department of Plastic Surgery combines nationally recognized surgical expertise with multidisciplinary collaboration and compassionate, patient-centered care. 

Patients choose our program because we offer:

• Board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in breast reconstruction 

• Expertise in both implant-based and advanced microsurgical reconstruction, including specialized nerve repair for breast re-sensation 

• Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's goals and lifestyle

• A multidisciplinary team that collaborates closely with breast surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and rehabilitation specialists

• Access to innovative reconstructive techniques and clinical research through an academic medical center

• Comprehensive care from your initial consultation through long-term follow-up

Our commitment is to provide exceptional reconstructive care while helping every patient feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their treatment journey.