Breast Reconstruction in New Orleans, LA

If you have undergone a lumpectomy or mastectomy, Dr. Michelle Eagan performs breast reconstruction on one or both of the breasts, which resizes and reshapes them. It can also help patients who have damage because of a birth defect or trauma. Even after removal or damage, advanced options in breast reconstruction surgery can increase your confidence with natural-looking breasts. Depending on your needs and preferences, we can perform breast reconstruction at the beginning of your cancer treatment or wait until the treatment is complete. Using a compassionate approach, Dr. Michelle Eagan creates a unique surgical plan that helps enhance your appearance and improve your confidence at New Orleans Plastic Surgery in Louisiana.

Breast reconstruction procedures carried out at New Orleans Plastic Surgery can be done for a variety of reasons. No matter why you need or want this procedure, we will help you to achieve results that have you looking beautiful. Upsides of breast reconstruction surgery at our New Orleans, LA practice involve:

• Availability of several reconstructive plans of action
• Renewed self-confidence
• Getting proportion in the upper body
• Addressing visual and medical issues alike
• Treating concerns from prior surgeries
• High odds of success, minimal risks, and lasting outcomes

Reconstruction of the breast(s) is a very personalized surgery and decision. Before undergoing your treatment, Dr. Eagan will complete a thorough consultation and create a surgical plan based on your concerns, needs, and appropriate techniques. If you are considering reconstruction, Dr. Eagan will set realistic expectations. While Dr. Eagan strives to provide a natural-looking appearance, your newly reconstructed breast(s) may not have the same look or feel like your original breast(s). Prior to the surgery, you should receive approval from your oncologist and let Dr. Eagan know about other factors that could impact healing.

Thanks to scientific advancements in breast reconstruction, we offer a variety of innovative techniques. When deciding on the best surgical technique for you, Dr. Eagan will consider several factors. These include:

• Your cancer diagnosis 
• The stage of your cancer treatment
• The treatment method, such as natural tissue or implants
• Nipple-sparing or nipple reconstruction 

In order to recreate the breast, you must have enough tissue to fully cover the breast mound. Flap methods accomplish this by using your own skin, muscle, and fat to create, cover, and build the breast. The most common flap techniques include the TRAM, DIEP, latissimus dorsi, PAP, LTP, and composite flap. 

Although flap procedures are a common and highly successful method used in breast reconstruction, patients can reconstruct their breast(s) with the tissue expansion method. During your consultation, we will discuss the best methods for you.

Surgical breast reconstruction is performed in various stages. In some phases (like creating a flap, tissue expansion, or implant placement), we may use general anesthesia. Depending on your current treatment phase, some patients may require an overnight stay for additional monitoring. After completing the final stage of your breast reconstruction surgical process, you will need to wear a medical support bra. Additionally, Dr. Eagan will prescribe medication to control bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Over time, your reconstructed breast(s) should look and feel more normal, which may help you live a better quality of life. Even after your breast reconstruction surgery, it is critical to continue scheduling breast exams and mammograms so your physician can check for any new cancer growths.

Breast reconstruction is a complex surgery so to get great results, you should concentrate on finding a doctor with years of training over the lowest price. During your consultation, Dr. Eagan will listen to your needs and cosmetic goals and develop the best treatment plan for you. After developing the treatment plan, she can talk to you about costs and payment methods.

Does breast reconstruction hurt?

Breast reconstruction may cause some discomfort, but most patients find that any pain is easily managed with medications and methods such as rest and ice. Rest assured that Dr. Eagan will work with you to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our patients report that any discomfort associated with breast reconstruction is far outweighed by their renewed confidence and improved quality of life.

Does breast reconstruction produce natural results?

Yes, breast reconstruction produces results that are natural and beautiful. Our staff at New Orleans Plastic Surgery is experienced and knowledgeable in the latest techniques to provide our patients with optimal outcomes. We take the time to listen to your goals and needs before treatment so we can create a plan that meets your individual preferences.

How long does breast reconstruction take?

The length of your breast reconstruction depends on the techniques used, your individual needs, and healing times. Generally, we will break up your treatment into several stages so you have time to heal between each step. Our New Orleans staff is experienced in breast reconstruction and will work with you to create a timeline that meets your expectations.

Can breast reconstruction restore sensation to the affected breast?
Restoring sensation in a reconstructed breast is a complex aspect of breast reconstruction surgery. Some patients may experience a return of partial sensation over time, but it's important to note that complete sensory recovery is not always possible. The outcome largely depends on individual factors and the specific surgical approach used.

How soon after a mastectomy can breast reconstruction be done?
The timing for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy varies based on several factors, including your overall health and any additional cancer treatments you might need. In some cases, immediate reconstruction is possible, where the procedure is performed in conjunction with the mastectomy. However, if additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation are part of your care plan, delayed reconstruction might be recommended. Dr. Eagan will provide personalized guidance to determine the best approach for your situation.

Will I need to continue having mammograms for my reconstructed breast?
For implant-based reconstructions, traditional mammograms are generally not required. However, if you have natural tissue reconstruction or have remaining natural breast tissue, regular mammograms might still be necessary. Dr. Eagan will advise you on the appropriate post-surgery breast monitoring based on your individual case.

Although the process of breast reconstruction can take time, this surgery can help patients regain confidence. At New Orleans Plastic Surgery, breast reconstruction can help decrease the emotional and physical impact of breast cancer treatment. If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, experienced an injury to the chest, or have a congenital defect that affects the shape of your breasts, we invite you to call our New Orleans, LA office and schedule your consultation with Dr. Michelle Eagan.