Denis J. Winder M.D.
Durango SurgiCenter
316 Sawyer Dr
Durango Co 81303
Phone: (970)259-3818
Fax: (970)259-9553
e-mail:
winder@durangoplasticsurg.com

BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

If you're a mastectomy patient....

One of the most rewarding surgical procedures available to a woman is the reconstruction of a breast that had to be removed due to disease...the new breast can come close in form and appearance to a "natural" breast with new medical techniques practiced by plastic surgeons today. Usually the reconstruction process can be started during the same surgical setting as the mastectomy, thus eliminating the emotional anguish of waking up from surgery "without a breast". Even if you elect to wait, knowing your future options can alleviate additional anguish while you're dealing with the diagnosis of cancer.

The best candidates for reconstruction are women whose doctors are reasonably sure that their cancer has been or will be eliminated with removal of the breast. Some women want to deal only with their diagnosis and give thought to the possibility of reconstruction after their surgery. Women who smoke, are obese, or have high blood pressure may be advised by their surgeons to wait.

The final result on the reconstructed breast may be slightly firmer that the natural breast. Secondary procedures for asymmetry to make the breasts more alike may be necessary. The nipple/areola complex can also be reconstructed.

You'll meet with Dr. Winder and his patient counselor to go over all the information and details you will need to know to make a fully informed and educated decision about this surgery (including looking at "before & after" pictures of other patients). Approximately one week prior to surgery you will have your pre-op appointment in the Durango office; one of our nurses and Dr. Winder will do a complete physical and history, and, if needed, we will send you for pre-op testing.

There are different surgical techniques available - either an implant or your own tissue can be used to create the new "breast mound"; the areola/nipple complex can also be reconstructed. With implant reconstruction, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia in our SurgiCenter in Durango with no overnight stay, complete confidentiality, and with considerable cost savings vs. hospitalization. Tram-flap reconstruction, as well as some insurance carriers covering implant reconstruction, require hospitalization.

You are likely to feel tired and sore for a week or two after reconstruction. Most of your discomfort will be controlled with medication. If you are in the hospital, you are likely to be released within a few days. You will also, possibly, have drains to remove excess fluid; these, and your stitches will be removed within a week or two.

Read our most Frequently asked Questions about breast reconstruction.

Read about the proper selection of breast implants.