Breast Reconstruction

Restore your feminine form. Reclaim your confidence.

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape, appearance, and symmetry of the breasts following mastectomy, lumpectomy, or trauma. For many women, breast cancer and the loss of breast tissue are often both physically and emotionally challenging. Breast reconstruction offers an opportunity to rebuild what has been lost, helping patients feel more whole, confident, and comfortable in their bodies.

Reconstruction of one or both breasts can be performed using implants, your body’s own tissue, or a combination of both. Dr. Ryan Constantine works closely with each patient to develop a thoughtful, personalized surgical plan that prioritizes both aesthetic outcomes and long-term well-being. His goal is to achieve results that look natural, feel balanced, and support healing on every level.

Who Is a Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction may be appropriate if you:

Have undergone or are planning a mastectomy or lumpectomy
Have experienced breast trauma or significant breast deformity
Want to restore breast shape, symmetry, and contour
Are in good overall health and able to undergo surgery
Have realistic expectations about the reconstructive process

Breast reconstruction can be performed at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later date (delayed reconstruction), depending on individual circumstances.

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction offers both aesthetic and emotional benefits. Benefits can include:

Restoration of breast shape and contour: Rebuild a natural-looking breast mound.
Support for emotional recovery: Help patients feel more confident and complete after cancer or trauma
Improved symmetry: Balance the appearance between both breasts
Personalized reconstruction: Tailor the size, shape, and surgical technique to your goals
Long-term results: Modern techniques are designed for durability and natural appearance

About the Procedure

Breast reconstruction is performed under general anesthesia and may take place at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later stage after healing and other treatments are complete (delayed reconstruction). The timing and approach are tailored to each patient’s medical needs, treatment plan, and personal goals.

Reconstruction can be achieved using implants, the patient’s own tissue (flap reconstruction), or a combination of both. Surgery may involve one or multiple stages, depending on the chosen approach. Additional procedures, such as nipple and areola reconstruction or adjustments to the opposite breast, may be performed to refine symmetry and achieve a balanced result. Most patients return home the same day to begin their recovery.

Request a Consultation with Dr. Constantine

Surgical Techniques

Breast reconstruction techniques are selected based on the patient’s anatomy, medical history, and personal goals:

Tissue Expander to Implant Reconstruction: A temporary expander is placed beneath the chest muscle or skin and gradually filled over time to stretch the tissue. Once the desired size is achieved, the expander is replaced with a permanent implant to restore breast volume and shape.
Direct-to-Implant Reconstruction: In select patients, a breast implant can be placed at the time of mastectomy, avoiding the need for a tissue expander and reducing the number of procedures required.
Flap Reconstruction: Uses the patient’s own tissue—commonly from the abdomen, back, or other areas—to create a breast mound. This approach often results in a softer, more natural look and feel and may be preferred for patients who want to avoid implants.
Nipple and Areola Reconstruction: The nipple and areola can be recreated using surgical shaping and medical tattooing to complete the appearance of the breast.
Symmetry Procedures: Additional procedures (breast lift, reduction, or augmentation) may be performed on the opposite breast to improve overall balance and proportion.

Dr. Constantine will recommend the technique(s) that will best support your long-term health and provide optimal aesthetic results.

Recovery and Healing

Recovery from breast reconstruction varies depending on the technique used and whether multiple stages are required. After single-stage reconstruction, or after the final stage of reconstruction, most patients can expect the following:

First week: Swelling, tightness, soreness, and fatigue are common. These can be managed with medication and rest.
Two to three weeks: Most patients are recovered enough to return to light activities and work (depending on job type and the extent of surgery).
Four to six weeks: Patients may gradually return to exercise and normal routines.
Several months: Final results evolve as the tissues heal and settle.

Because breast reconstruction may occur in stages, Dr. Constantine provides ongoing guidance and follow-up care throughout the entire process.

Breast Reconstruction FAQs

Will my reconstructed breast look natural?

The reconstructed breast mound is designed to closely match the shape and contour of a natural breast. While reconstructed breasts may not feel exactly the same as natural tissue, modern techniques allow for natural-looking shape, contour, and symmetry.

When will I see the results?

This depends on the reconstruction method. Some patients complete reconstruction in one stage, while others require multiple procedures based on their chosen reconstruction method, cancer treatment, or trauma treatment.

What are breast reconstruction scars like?

Scarring depends on the surgical technique used, but incisions are planned carefully to minimize visibility and improve long-term appearance.

Can breast reconstruction be done at the same time as mastectomy?

Yes. Though not all patients are candidates, immediate reconstruction is often possible and can reduce the total number of surgeries.

How long do results last?

Breast reconstruction results are long-lasting. However, implants may require replacement over time, and natural aging of the skin and soft tissues can affect breast appearance.

How long do breast implants last?

While breast implants are durable, they are not considered lifetime devices. Most implants last 10–15 years or longer. Some women choose to update their implants sooner in order to change size, type, or adapt to natural changes in their body over time.