breast reconstruction

New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all. Most mastectomy patients are medically appropriate for reconstruction, many at the same time that the breast is removed. The best candidates, however, are women whose cancer, as far as can be determined, seems to have been eliminated by mastectomy. Virtually any woman who must lose her breast to cancer can have it rebuilt through reconstructive surgery.

The goal of breast reconstruction is to restore one or both breasts to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry, and size following mastectomy or lumpectomy. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. For Dr. F. Victor Atalla and Dr. Katie Durnen, breast reconstruction surgery is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures performed in our practice.

Whether newly diagnosed, or a survivor of ten plus years, there are several reconstruction options available. There are an estimated 280,000 new cases of breast cancer in the United States each year, and approximately seventy percent of these women are unaware of their reconstructive options. We are here to assist you through the uncharted waters of cancer reconstruction.

“We want to educate and empower women to make the reconstructive decision that is best for them following a diagnosis of breast cancer.” says Dr. Katie Durnen, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Breast reconstruction may not be the right option for every woman, but for many it is a life-changing procedure.

If you or someone you know have questions related to breast reconstruction options, have them give our office a call at 270-796-8960.