Breast Reconstruction in NYC

Our plastic surgery center provides breast reconstruction in NYC to restore the shape and appearance of breasts after tissue removal. Dr. M. Zakir Sabry utilizes the latest techniques to recreate a natural-looking, symmetrical breast mound. With 20 years of experience, Dr. Sabry guides patients through all available options, including breast implants and different types of flaps, to achieve the best possible outcome. At Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center, we leverage innovative surgical methods so women can feel whole, confident, and comfortable again.

Our plastic surgery center provides breast reconstruction procedures in NYC to restore the shape and appearance of breasts after tissue removal. Dr. M. Zakir Sabry utilizes the latest techniques to recreate a natural-looking, symmetrical breast mound. With 20 years of experience, Dr. Sabry guides patients through all available options, including breast implants and different types of flaps, to achieve the best possible outcome. At Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center, we leverage innovative surgical methods so women can feel whole, confident, and comfortable again.

Table of Contents

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that recreates the shape and look of a breast after tissue removal, which usually happens during cancer treatment. Dr. Sabry shapes a natural-looking breast mound that matches the second breast in size and shape. This surgery often involves multiple procedures using implants, natural tissue flaps, or both. On average, the initial breast reconstruction takes 2 to 6 hours, while revisions or symmetry corrections may take 1 to 3 hours. It can be performed either immediately after mastectomy or delayed until after adjuvant cancer treatments have been completed.

Breast Reconstruction Techniques

Implant Reconstruction

Implant reconstruction involves inserting a breast implant to recreate the shape and size of the breast that was removed. This is often done in a separate surgery after the mastectomy and is the quickest reconstruction option. Saline or silicone implants can be placed under the chest muscle for a more natural appearance. This method avoids extra scars as it utilizes the mastectomy scar for the implant insertion.

Flap Reconstruction

Flap reconstruction (a.k.a. autologous reconstruction) utilizes tissue from another body part, like the abdomen, back, or buttocks, to restore the breast shape. This tissue is reconnected to blood vessels in the chest area to form the structure of the new breast. Flap surgery creates a breast that moves, ages, and feels more natural but leaves additional donor site scars. Different flap techniques include:

TRAM Flap

The TRAM (transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous) flap technique reconstructs the breast using skin, fat, and muscle from the abdomen. The rectus abdominis muscle, which runs vertically between the ribs and the pelvis, is cut and transplanted, along with the overlying tissue, to the chest to build the breast mound. This method involves the sacrifice of abdominal muscle, which can lead to weakness in the future.

DIEP Flap

DIEP (deep inferior epigastric artery perforator) flap is an innovative breast reconstruction technique that spares the rectus abdominis muscle. Only the skin and fat from the lower abdomen are harvested, along with the blood vessels that supply this tissue. The flap is then transplanted to the chest to reconstruct the breast without sacrificing muscle and allowing faster recovery. Dr. Sabry performs microsurgery to connect the tiny blood vessels and preserve muscle strength.

LD Flap

This technique uses the skin, fat, and latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle from the upper back. The tissues are flipped to the chest while still attached to their original blood vessels in the back. This surgery leaves a back scar, which can be minimized with proper aftercare, including massage, topical treatments, and avoiding sun exposure. The LD flap technique creates a naturally-looking breast mound from the woman’s soft tissue. However, it may require an implant for additional fullness.

GAP Flap

The GAP (gluteal artery perforator) flap uses skin, fat, and muscle from the upper buttocks. The tissue is detached from its original blood supply and microsurgically reattached to chest wall vessels to form the breast mound. This technique does not require implants and leaves some incision scars on the buttocks. After such autologous tissue reconstruction, the resulting breast has a natural shape, softness, and fullness.

Preparation for Breast Reconstruction

Preparation for breast reconstruction surgery begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Sabry. During this meeting, the doctor reviews the patient’s medical history and performs a physical examination to analyze their overall health and suitability for surgery. Dr. Sabry discusses the different reconstruction options, such as implant or flap procedures, explains what to expect from surgery, and addresses any questions or concerns.

Additional screening tests, such as blood work, a mammogram, or medical clearance, may be required before the operation. The patient will also receive detailed instructions on arranging transportation, avoiding certain medications and supplements, and follow-up care after the procedure. Clear communication with the surgical team and adherence to pre-operative guidelines is crucial for achieving the desired results.

Breast Reconstruction Procedure

Anesthesia

The breast reconstruction process begins with general anesthesia. The anesthesiology team provides intravenous medications to put the patient into a deep sleep without awareness or feeling. This allows Dr. Sabry to perform the procedure effectively and with maximum comfort for the patient.

Incisions

The type and location of incisions depend on the specific technique used. For implant reconstruction, the cuts are often made under the breast, arm, or around the nipple. For flap techniques using the patient’s tissue, the incision sites are where the flap is harvested – the abdomen, back, or buttocks.

Creating the Breast Pocket

Dr. Sabry creates a pocket or space in the chest to accommodate the breast implant or flap:

For implant reconstruction, the pocket is made by separating and lifting chest wall tissues.
For flap techniques, Dr. Sabry shapes the space for flap attachment with careful incisions.

Inserting the Implant or Flap

If implants are used, Dr. Sabry inserts and positions saline or silicone breast implants. For flap techniques, the surgeon attaches the tissue flap with sutures to shape and support the reconstructed breast. Dr. Sabry uses microsurgery to reconnect the flap to the blood supply from nearby vessels.

Closing the Incisions

The incisions are closed once the permanent implant or flap is in place. Sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape may be used. Over time, the incision lines mature and become less noticeable.

Nipple Reconstruction (After Several Months)

This procedure is typically performed months after reconstructive breast surgery. The nipple is recreated using adjacent skin and tissue. The areola is restored by tattooing the surrounding area to achieve the desired shape and color. The opposite nipple is used as a guide. This final step creates a naturally-looking breast.

Recovery After Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Second and Third Weeks

Weeks 2 and 3 mark a transition to light activity and more independence in personal care. Bruising and swelling continue to resolve. Patients can usually return to desk work during this time, but strenuous physical exertion is still restricted. Follow-up appointments allow Dr. Sabry to monitor healing progress. Discomfort typically decreases to a mild level that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Later Recovery

In subsequent weeks and months after surgery, patients regain strength and resume regular activity. Temporary numbness in the breast area slowly resolves. Scars mature and become less visible over time. Full recovery takes about 6-12 months, depending on the extent of the reconstruction procedure. Patients must continue follow-up mammograms or MRIs to monitor the restored breast tissue.

Early Recovery (First 24-48 Hours)

The first day or two after breast reconstruction surgery should be dedicated to managing pain and beginning basic self-care activities. Drainage tubes are typically placed during surgery to remove fluid and prevent infection and swelling. Patients are encouraged to get up and walk around their homes briefly to avoid blood clots. Activities are kept very limited.

First Week

During the first week of recovery, patients follow Dr. Sabry’s instructions for wound care, medication, and activity restrictions. Pain and discomfort should gradually subside, but patients might still require prescription pain relievers. Drainage tubes remain in place for up to 10 days until fluid accumulation is minimal. Stitches may need to be removed around 1 week later. Swelling and bruising are common. Patients should avoid lifting, pulling, or pushing anything over 5-10 pounds.

Candidates for Breast Reconstruction

Women Diagnosed With Breast Cancer: Women who have undergone or will receive a mastectomy to treat breast cancer are candidates for breast reconstruction. This procedure can help restore the breast shape after tissue has been removed.

Women With Prophylactic Mastectomies: Women who have decided to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy due to increased risk of breast cancer are also candidates for breast reconstruction. Though they do not have malignant tumors, the mastectomy can be an effective preventative measure. Reconstruction may help recreate breast shape after this operation.

Women Dissatisfied With Breast Asymmetry: Breast asymmetry, where one breast is different from the other, is also a common reason patients might consider reconstruction surgery. This procedure can address the problem and create more evenly shaped breasts.

Women With Congenital Breast Deformities: Some women are born with breast deformities or experience breast trauma that results in cosmetic issues. These conditions can make them candidates for breast reconstruction procedures. Using the latest techniques, Dr. Sabry will recreate evenly shaped breasts.

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

Boosted Self-Confidence: For many patients, breast reconstruction provides a significant boost in self-confidence. It can help in reclaiming a sense of identity and femininity that might feel diminished after surgery. The result is often an increase in comfort in social situations and an overall positive impact on quality of life.

Reduced Physical Discomfort: Breast reconstruction can alleviate the physical discomfort that some women experience due to imbalances after a mastectomy. Recreating the breast helps distribute weight more evenly, which helps reduce strain on the back, neck, and shoulders, contributing to overall well-being.

Restored Body Symmetry: Breast reconstruction helps restore symmetry by creating a natural-looking breast shape that complements the patient’s body. After a mastectomy or lumpectomy, this procedure can provide a balanced appearance, helping women feel more comfortable in their clothing and improving physical well-being.

Improved Emotional Well-Being: Breast reconstruction supports emotional recovery, helping patients feel better after cancer treatment. This surgery restores a sense of wholeness and confidence, allowing women to improve their quality of life.

Enhanced Clothing Fit and Comfort: Reconstructed breasts can help patients enjoy more clothing options with greater comfort. Without needing external prosthetics, women feel more at ease in fitted clothing, swimsuits, and bras, adding to a renewed sense of freedom in daily activities.

Cost of Breast Reconstruction in NYC

The cost of breast reconstruction in NYC ranges from $13,000 to $30,000. Several factors influence the price. Whether using implants or utilizing the patient’s tissue, the type of reconstruction method significantly impacts the total costs. The experience and reputation of breast surgeons also affect pricing. Patients undergoing reconstruction after a mastectomy due to breast cancer may have a portion of their costs covered by health insurance.

What Makes Our Reconstructive Surgery Different From Others?

Dr. M. Zakir Sabry is a distinguished breast surgeon with specialized fellowships and 19 years of recognition as a “Top Doctor.” He brings deep expertise to this sensitive procedure. Our team is committed to patient-centered care and achieving optimal outcomes. We use cutting-edge surgical techniques that minimize recovery times, making the experience as comfortable as possible. Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center is a premier destination for all cosmetic procedures, including breast augmentation, breast reduction, and breast lift.