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After mastectomy, lumpectomy, or injury to the breasts, many women wish to restore the appearance of natural breast tissue. This allows them to feel renewed confidence and a sense of closure following what is often a traumatic or painful experience. Thankfully, modern breast reconstruction techniques are available for natural and beautiful results, and several techniques can be utilized. In Aventura, Florida, patients often turn to Dr. Andrés Sárraga for safe, effective, and beautiful breast reconstruction. Our offices are conveniently located for patients in the greater Miami area and our staff provides a friendly and comfortable experience.
CANDIDATES FOR BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
Most patients who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy or suffered an injury to the breasts are good candidates for breast reconstruction. However, it is important that patients are not suffering from health concerns that would impede healing. It is not recommended to undergo breast reconstruction surgery until after other medical treatments are complete. Patients should also have realistic expectations for their results, which can be discussed during a consultation.
AUTOLOGOUS BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
Autologous reconstruction is whereby the use of your own tissues a new breast mound can be formed. The two most common types of autologous reconstruction are by using abdominal or back muscles along with other tissues, such as fat. In most cases, tissue from the lower abdomen, between the belly button and pubic bone, is used. To complete the procedure, patients must have sufficient pinchable soft tissue in this area to transfer to the new breast mounds. Autologous breast reconstruction is typically recommended for patients who have insufficient remaining natural tissue to surround an implant. Often, implants are added to the newly-created breast mound to enhance the results and create a proportionate look.
ANDRÉS SÁRRAGA MD FACS
DOUBLE BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
Dr. Sárraga was born and raised in Puerto Rico, where he spent most of his life. He decided at a very early age to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and pursue a career in the art of medicine and surgery. Dr. Sárraga has been featured in several publications including Aventura Magazine™ and Healthy Valley® Magazine where he has discussed procedures including Facial Rejuvenation and Breast Surgery. Dr. Sárraga has been awarded one of Castle Connolly’s top doctors in Miami for the last 5 years. He has also been featured with his friend and mentor Dr. Storch. Since Dr. Storch’s retirement, Dr. Sárraga now runs ARTIS Institute Plastic Surgery as a single practitioner.
MEET DR. SÁRRAGA
PROSTHETIC RECONSTRUCTION
After a mastectomy or removal of the breast, the simplest thing to do is to create a new breast mound with an implant or an expander. This involves the placement of breast implants like those used in a breast augmentation. This gives patients options regarding the size, shape, and profile of the reconstructed breasts. Often, tissue expanders must be placed prior to implants. This adequately and gradually stretches the skin and tissue to make room for the breast implant. Our doctors will determine along with you the most appropriate pathway.
POST MASTECTOMY AND RECONSTRUCTION DEFORMITIES
Breast reconstruction involves a stepwise process that requires refinements in order to achieve a more natural result.
In some instances flaps or other techniques may be needed to achieve this.
FAT GRAFTING TO THE BREAST
For some patients, fat grafting can be sufficient to reconstruct the breasts. This is sometimes the case for those who have had less invasive or extensive procedures or injuries prior to reconstruction. In a fat grafting procedure, fat is removed from a donor area, such as the abdomen, back, thighs, or hips, using liposuction. This fat can then be carefully injected into the breasts. Fat injections to the breast can accomplish many things:
- Create a new breast mound or fill deformities from partial breast removal (lumpectomy or partial mastectomy)
- Soften the look of a reconstructed breast and thus lessen the implant look
- Improve the tissue quality around the reconstructed breast
There are several benefits of fat grafting. This procedure allows patients to achieve their desired look without major scarring in the breasts. It also allows patients to remove fat from areas for a sculpted, athletic, proportionate appearance.
OUR GALLERY
View patient results for many procedures in our online gallery.
VIEW GALLERY
BREAST RECONSTRUCTION RESULTS AND RECOVERY
Breast reconstruction recovery varies depending on the techniques used for the procedure. Generally speaking, patients can expect swelling, bruising, and some discomfort after the surgery. Pain medication will be prescribed to maintain comfort during the first days of healing. Downtime is also expected, though the length of time will vary for each patient. Generally speaking, it is important to avoid exercise or other vigorous activity until the healing process is complete. Dr. Sárraga will explain expectations before your procedure and schedule follow-up appointments after the surgery to monitor your healing. Results are immediately noticeable, but will continue to develop and improve as swelling and other side effects resolve.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you are in need of a breast reconstruction or know that you will undergo a mastectomy or lumpectomy soon, contact ARTIS Institute for Plastic Surgery in Aventura, Florida. Dr. Andrés Sárraga will review your health and goals for breast reconstruction to develop a personalized treatment plan. He can also work with your healthcare team to coordinate your care. Call our office or contact us online to schedule your appointment.
“My experience in the Surgical center was fabulous”
Wonderful doctor, loved his skills, bedside manners, before, during and after my procedure. My experience in the Surgical center was fabulous and in his private office as well. Highly recommend Dr. Andres Sarraga. I give him a A+++++
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