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167 Majorca Ave., Coral Gables, FL 33134

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Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction in Miami, FL – Gables Plastic Surgery

A mastectomy or lumpectomy will permanently alter your appearance, and while the procedure saves countless lives, it also leaves many women feeling incomplete. Breast reconstruction surgery will restore symmetry to your chest, and can also be an emotionally transformative experience, helping you reclaim your body and regain your self-confidence and sense of physical autonomy.

If you are a breast cancer survivor, breast reconstruction can help you take the final step toward complete healing.

Patients  considering this surgery will most likely have questions about the best reconstruction techniques. With his training and compassion, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jorge de la Pedraja is one of the best reconstructive breast surgeons in Florida and aims to make the process comfortable and reassuring for all his patients.

To learn more about Coral Gables breast reconstruction surgery, call (305) 441-9144 or contact us online today.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast reconstruction refers to any surgical procedure aimed at recreating the breast mound after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, cancer-related treatments, trauma, or even congenital disorders. The process restores the breasts’ shape, size, and contours, and if required, can include additional procedures on the other breast to improve symmetry. Options include breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift.

Dr. de la Pedraja can achieve breast mound recreation by placing a tissue expander and implant or by using your natural tissue during a process referred to as autologous reconstruction.

Breast reconstruction can occur alongside cancer treatment or whenever you feel it is more appropriate. During consultations, Dr. de la Pedraja will discuss all the options for breast reconstruction to help patients determine the best procedure and timing based on your particular situation,  reconstructive goals and anatomy.

Dr. de la Pedraja offers different surgical methods to treat the nipples, including correcting inverted nipples after trauma or cancer treatment. As an essential part of breast reconstruction, nipple reconstruction improves overall patient satisfaction and aims to recreate breast projection and improve symmetry.

What Are the Benefits of a Breast Reconstruction in Miami, FL?

Breast reconstruction helps restore a patient’s physical and emotional balance after surgical breast cancer treatment. It allows you to reclaim your feminine curves by rebuilding your breasts after mastectomy and bringing a sense of normalcy.

When performed by a highly experienced surgeon like Dr. de la Pedraja, breast reconstruction can:

  • Return balance and proportion to your body by restoring your feminine profile
  • Help your breasts look natural when wearing your favorite clothing or bathing suit
  • Provide dramatic and permanent results
  • Improve your quality of life
  • Restore your self-image and self-confidence

Your goals are crucial considerations as you plan your breast reconstruction surgery, and Dr. de la Pedraja invites you to schedule a meeting with him to find out what the surgery can do for you.

WhyWhy Should I Choose Dr. Jorge de la Pedraja for Breast Reconstruction in Coral Gables?

Dr. de la Pedraja has undergone rigorous training in each of the operations provided at Gables Plastic Surgery. He is fellowship-trained in aesthetic and breast surgery at the prestigious Georgetown University with world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Scott Spear. In addition to his considerable training and many years of practice, Dr. de la Pedraja actively seeks out the latest advancements in the field and stays current with the most sought-after techniques.

Dr. de la Pedraja always stresses that his office is not a clinic—he is here for the long run. We treat all patients as family members. Whether during a consultation or any other appointment, Dr. de la Pedraja will take his time with you to listen to all your questions and give you ample time to learn about your options. You will never feel pressured to make a decision at Gables Plastic Surgery, and you can always reach Dr. de la Pedraja with any questions or concerns.

Dr. de la Pedraja is aware that patients may ask for things he can’t deliver. He tries to reason with them and explain his thought process. With their health and well-being in mind, Dr. de la Pedraja will turn down patients if he thinks what they want is not in their best interest.

Dr. de la Pedraja

Why Choose Dr. de la Pedraja

  • Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • Fellow of the American College of Surgeons
  • Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • Member of Miami Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • Committed to providing the highest quality of care to each and every patient
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What Are My Breast Reconstruction Options?

Breast reconstruction surgery is more complex than other breast surgeries such as breast augmentation. The procedure often involves multiple operations, with patients making several essential decisions during the process.

Procedural Timing

Depending on your overall health, you may have the option of having a breast reconstruction immediately following your mastectomy. On the other hand, you might prefer to delay your breast reconstruction until you’ve completely healed from your mastectomy surgery. Some eligible patients choose immediate reconstruction to avoid a long wait between surgical procedures and two separate healing processes.

However, immediate reconstruction is not always an option for patients who must undergo further cancer therapy such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy after undergoing their mastectomy. Regardless of the decision, immediate and delayed reconstruction are equally effective in achieving successful outcomes.

Implant-Based Reconstruction

As part of the process, you also need to choose between two of the most common forms of breast reconstruction surgery — implant-based reconstruction and flap-based reconstruction. Implant-based reconstruction involves using silicone or saline breast implants to fill out the breast pocket.

When it’s possible to insert the final implant directly into the breast pocket — which is usually the case — you can have one single, convenient reconstruction surgery. However, where it’s not possible to preserve most of your breast skin after removing a significant amount, you may have a special adjustable saline implant called a tissue expander fitted when you choose to begin the reconstruction process.

Over the weeks following your surgery, the gradual expansion of the implant (expander) can take place with the insertion of more saline. The remaining skin will gradually stretch in the process, making room for the final implant.

Flap-Based Reconstruction

As an alternative to implant-based reconstruction, flap-based breast reconstruction requires harvesting a flap of skin, usually from another area of the body, and using it to create a new breast pocket, which Dr. de la Pedraja then fills with either an implant or fatty tissue taken from your body. Flap-based breast reconstruction is ideal for patients who have lost a great deal of breast tissue, however, it requires more recovery time.

If you have stubborn fat deposits on your back or stomach, or loose skin resulting from pregnancy or weight loss, flap-based reconstruction might be a good option for you.

Once your reconstructed breasts have healed, you can also have your nipples reconstructed by using a small flap of skin, which is then colored via micropigmentation (tattoo). Though the reconstructed nipples lack sensation, they can restore a more natural appearance to your breasts.

Look your best, feel your best

Dr. de la Pedraja is committed to providing the highest quality of care to each and every patient. His philosophy is to develop an individualized care plan to meet the needs of each patient with the utmost compassion and concern in a setting of comfort and confidentiality.

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Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Miami Breast Reconstruction?

In general, candidates for breast reconstruction in Miami, FL, are women in good physical and mental health who are looking to permanently regain their breast shape.

Typically, all breast reconstruction candidates should:

  • Live a healthy lifestyle
  • Be non-smokers
  • Be able to deal with the diagnosis and treatment
  • Understand the risks of a surgical procedure
  • Have no medical conditions or illnesses that could impair healing
  • Have a positive outlook and realistic goals for their procedure

What Happens Before, During, and After a Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Dr. de la Pedraja’s expertise allows him to customize procedures to address each patient’s unique breast reconstruction needs. While each breast reconstruction procedure will be slightly different, here are the general steps you can expect.

Check-In and Anesthesia

Dr. de la Pedraja’s peri-operative team will greet you and check you in. Dr. de la Pedraja will evaluate you, make his surgical markings, and ensure you are relaxed and comfortable. Once you are safely resting under general anesthesia, Dr. de la Pedraja will begin your breast reconstruction procedure as determined during your consultation. 

Breast Reconstruction

For implant reconstructions, Dr. de la Pedraja will create incisions using the mastectomy scars and insert the implants with a sterile, no-touch technique, if it is a direct to implant reconstruction. If a tissue expander is necessary, it will be placed thru the mastectomy wounds. it will be filled in the office postoperatively, and eventually switched for a permanent implant.

For flap reconstructions, Dr. de la Pedraja will harvest the necessary tissue from your back or abdomen and use it to recreate the breast mound.

Your surgery’s duration will depend on your specific treatment plan.

Breast Reconstruction Aftercare

Immediately following surgery and for the first three days of your recovery, your breasts will remain covered with a soft wrap, followed by a fitted surgical or sports bra, which you’ll need to wear for approximately three to four weeks. You’ll have regular follow-up appointments with Dr. de la Pedraja for at least a year after surgery.

  • Nipple reconstruction: While you are under local or sedation anesthesia, Dr. de la Pedraja will create small skin flaps in a procedure lasting approximately an hour, with soft dressings applied afterward.
  • Nipple reconstruction aftercare: One week after the procedure, de la Pedraja will  remove the dressings in favor of a supportive sports bra. Dr. de la Pedraja recommends avoiding any pressure on the nipple area for at least four weeks following surgery to maximize the amount of projection.

How Soon Will I See My Breast Reconstruction Surgery Results?

Your results are immediately apparent following your breast reconstruction procedure. However, the swelling you may experience will disguise your final results for a few weeks, and you can expect some side effects, including bruising on the treatment and donor sites. As your body continues to heal over the next few months, your results will noticeably improve.

Breast reconstruction results are uniquely individual, and you should keep in mind that reconstructed breasts may not have the same sensation or feeling as natural breasts, especially the nipple area.

As with any procedure, to ensure optimal results, you must closely follow Dr. de la Pedraja’s instructions regarding physical activities and your overall lifestyle.

Partner with One of Miami’s Best Breast Reconstruction Surgeons

Getting the best results from your breast reconstruction in Miami, FL, begins with selecting the right surgeon, Dr. Jorge de la Pedraja. Schedule your consultation by calling (305) 441-9144 or contacting us online today. We proudly serve Miami, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, Pinecrest, and other areas of South Florida.

Breast Reconstruction FAQs

Yes. Most insurance providers cover breast reconstruction, and our team will happily assist you in finding out all the details. The “Women’s Health Care Act” was passed by congress in 1998. All stages of reconstruction must be covered after a mastectomy, this includes surgery on the other side for symmetry. Options for the other side could be an augmentation, breast lift, reduction or a combo of these.

 

Because each breast reconstruction case is different, the total price tag depends on your individual procedural plan. During your consultation, Dr. de la Pedraja will provide an estimate for a more accurate breast reconstruction cost.

Before your breast cancer reconstruction surgery, we will give you an anesthetic to eliminate discomfort, if it is performed under local or sedation. After your procedure, Dr. de la Pedraja will prescribe pain medication as needed. Be sure to address your pain concerns with Dr. de la Pedraja during your consultation.

 

During your consultation, Dr. de la Pedraja will thoroughly explain the different procedures with risks, benefits, and options and help you determine the appropriate type of reconstruction.

Yes. If your mastectomy surgeon removed one or both of your nipples, you could choose to have surgery to recreate the nipple and the areola, which you can also have colored in via micropigmentation or tattooing for a more natural look.

To learn more about breast reconstruction, contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jorge de la Pedraja in Miami by calling (305) 441-9144 or contacting us online today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!