Breast Surgery

Breast Reconstruction Brighton, Melbourne

Breast reconstruction can help replace the shape of your breast

Following mastectomy to treat breast cancer, or as a preventative measure in high risk families, many women choose to have a breast reconstruction in order to give them a more whole or balanced appearance. This can have many benefits for a woman’s sense of well-being, as well as for her physical, sexual, and psychological health. We provide a comfortable, trusting environment for our patients; following a mastectomy we understand that patients can feel uncomfortable about their body which is why we prioritise your wellbeing.

Is Mr Morgan experienced in performing the breast reduction Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty) procedure?

Mr David Morgan has had many years of experience in performing breast reconstruction surgery. With a particular interest in breast surgery, he is dedicated to providing successful results for his patients. Mr Morgan and his team pride themselves on providing a warm welcoming environment, and will take the time to listen to your individual needs and concerns.

What is the procedure for this treatment?

Breast reconstruction involves making a new breast mound using either a breast implant or the patient’s own tissues. Breast implants can be filled with either silicone or saline, and may need a preliminary stage of gradual inflation over time to allow the tissues to stretch before inserting the final prosthesis.

A breast mound can also be made by using a patient’s own tissue. This tissue can be a muscle taken from the upper back, called the latissimus dorsi flap, or can be made entirely from the lower abdominal tissue, called a TRAM flap, which has the additional benefit of giving the patient a ‘tummy tuck’ (abdominoplasty). To complete the reconstruction, a new nipple can be made by folding up small flaps of skin from the breast. This is usually performed some months later when the new breast has settled into position. Medical tattooing can then be used to recreate the natural colouring of this part of the breast.

A reconstructed breast will not always match the remaining natural breast perfectly. Balancing procedures to lift and/or reduce the other breast may be required to achieve better symmetry.

How long will I need to recover after a breast reconstruction?

Everyone will have a different experience and will recover from a breast reconstruction operation differently. Although uncommon, complications can also potentially occur and result in a longer recovery time. Generally, most women return to light activities within one week, and can return to work by the end of the second week, depending on the nature of your treatment and how many follow-up appointments are required.

Typically, most patients will recover significantly enough during these two weeks to return to social activity and office-based work. Again this will be dependent on the nature of your reconstructive treatment and the amount of follow-up appointments that are required. More strenuous physical activity should be limited for a total of 6 weeks.

All surgical procedures carry risks.

Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Cosmetic surgery is real surgery, and will most often require a general anaesthetic. All surgery will require a period of recovery before returning to normal activity. Although uncommon, complications can and do occur, and may affect the final result of your surgery. The potential risks will be discussed fully during your consultations, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about the various risks in your particular circumstance. Risks may include poor quality scarring, excessive bruising and swelling, infection, bleeding, pain, asymmetry, nerve injury, anaesthetic complications, unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes, the need for further surgery, and permanent disability or death.

As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Mr Morgan is appropriately trained and qualified to deal with complications of surgery, including the ability to admit you to hospital, if required.

FAQs

Why is breast reconstruction performed?
Breast reconstruction surgery is often performed following a mastectomy. The
procedure can be very helpful in restoring a sense of well-being and contributes greatly
to a woman’s physical, sexual, and psychological health following breast cancer
treatment.
What does breast construction surgery involve?
Breast reconstruction surgery involves making a new breast mound, either with the use
of a breast implant or some of your own tissue. Breast implants are filled with silicone
or saline, and may need a preliminary stage of gradual inflation before the final
prosthesis is inserted.
In cases where the breast mound is made with your own tissue, it will be taken from the
upper back or the lower abdomen. A new nipple is constructed by folding up flaps of
skin from the breast, while medical tattooing can be performed in order to recreate the
natural colouring of the nipple.
How long does recovery from breast reconstruction take?
As with any surgery, each patient is different and your recovery time will depend on
your unique case. You should be able to return to light activities within a week, and go
back to work after two weeks. Strenuous activity should be limited for around six
weeks.

Breast Reconstruction Melbourne

During your consultation with Mr Morgan, he will discuss the treatment and his recommendations on the treatment needed to create natural results for you.