Breast Reconstruction

Offered at our convenient location in Birmingham, Alabama

Mastectomy patients not only suffer from a physical change to their bodies, but the loss of a breast is also a severe emotional loss. At Core Plastic Surgery, Grady Core, M.D., F.A.C.S., a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs breast reconstruction on women in Birmingham, Mountain Brook, and the surrounding communities, who have had one or both breasts removed and want to restore their feminine physique.

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a complex procedure, though it’s never as difficult or involved as the original cancer surgery.

There are several approaches to breast reconstruction, depending on the type of mastectomy and the condition of your skin. You’ll discuss your particular situation with your surgeon in order to choose the approach that’s best for you. Sometimes a simple implant is all that’s needed. In order to make room for an implant, the surgeon inserts a temporary device to expand the skin and underlying tissue. Sometimes he must transplant a flap of donor skin from your back or abdomen. Reconstructing the nipple and areola may require additional surgery, which is usually done in an office setting.

Breast Reconstruction is usually performed under general anesthesia in a hospital where you’ll probably need to stay for several days .

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

In addition to restoring the natural and proportionate appearance of a woman’s figure following a mastectomy, breast reconstruction offers the following benefits:

  • Increase in self-esteem
  • No prosthesis needed
  • Clothes fit more proportionally
  • Long-lasting results
  • Size and shape are customized to individual desires

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is performed most often on women who have undergone surgical procedures to remove one or both breasts (mastectomy ). Additionally, it is performed on women who may have been born with a deformity in their breast shape to give them a natural looking figure.

Before and After Photos

Breast Reconstruction Before & After Patient #511
Breast Reconstruction Before & After Patient #511
Breast Reconstruction Before & After Patient #506
Breast Reconstruction Before & After Patient #506
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How Do I Prepare for My Breast Reconstruction?

To prepare for breast reconstruction, it is necessary to meet with Dr. Core to allow him to evaluate your chest area and talk with you about what you want out of the procedure. Your medical history and goals for your breast reconstruction will be discussed in-depth. During private consultations, Dr. Core reviews the techniques and which one is the best option for you. He will give you detailed pre-op instructions to ensure a successful surgery.

What is Involved with My Breast Reconstruction?

Your breast reconstruction is based on the technique depending on the type of mastectomy, the condition of your skin, and your desired outcome. The four primary types of breast reconstruction include:

  • Implant Reconstruction
  • DIEP Flap Reconstruction
  • TRAM Flap Reconstruction
  • Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction

Dr. Core discusses each one with you as well as his recommended technique to achieve your goal. As for reconstructing the nipple and areola, this usually requires an additional surgery done in an office setting.

Breast reconstruction takes time to be performed and is done under general anesthesia in a hospital. Most often, this surgery requires a hospital stay for a few days so that you are closely monitored, and the healing process can begin.

What to Expect After Breast Reconstruction

Once you are home from your surgery, we recommend you rest for at least a week to continue recovery. It is important to avoid strenuous activity and overhead lifting for several weeks, although you may return to light work within a couple of weeks. New breasts typically do not have a normal sensation at first, but that returns in time.

When Will I See the Results from My Breast Reconstruction?

With breast reconstruction, the results are immediately noticeable . As the healing continues, the full results are usually outstanding: beautiful, natural-looking breasts , soft to the touch.

How Much Does Breast Reconstruction Cost in Birmingham?

Breast reconstruction varies in cost based on the technique used and whether other procedures are done at the same time.

During your consultation, we can discuss the cost with you in addition to our payment options. We accept cash, personal checks, and credit cards, and offer financing through CareCredit®.

Grady Core, M.D., F.A.C.S., a board-certified plastic surgeon, offers plastic and reconstructive surgery to people living in and around Birmingham, Mountain Brook, and across the Southeast to look and feel younger. Contact Dr. Core’s office today to schedule your consultation!