Every year, many women undergo life-altering surgery to combat breast cancer. Whether the oncologist elects to remove all or part of the breast, women are often left with a decrease in self-esteem after the mastectomy is performed. To minimize the physical and mental effects, women may elect to undergo breast reconstruction in Charlotte. This procedure restores the shape and appearance of breasts. Dr. Erik Miles works with area surgeons to provide breast reconstruction following cancer treatment and restore confidence.
Why should I consider breast reconstruction?
Mastectomy on its own is an emotional journey towards overcoming a condition that affects so many women. The road to recovery and remission is a story of triumph as women fight for their lives with the support of their families and their team of compassionate doctors. However, the scars left behind can sometimes undermine this triumph. For someone who is overcoming so much, the loss of ones breasts can be mentally debilitating, even making women feel less feminine. For these women, breast reconstruction can restore far more than just a feminine shape. It can truly be an opportunity to overcome the emotional and physical scars left behind during their fight to beat breast cancer.
Am I a good candidate for breast reconstruction?
The option to pursue breast reconstruction is a personal decision. During your consultation, Dr. Miles will discuss your options for reconstructive procedures available to you. The surgical method will be discussed as well as options during the procedure and an elected timeline. Other factors, such as ongoing radiology or chemotherapy treatments or the amount of tissue being removed, may limit options available to you. Dr. Miles works closely with your oncologist and other doctors to determine the treatment plan that best benefits you. Dr. Miles will help you understand what you can expect during the process.
What should I expect during the procedure?
Breast reconstruction procedures vary based on the needs of the individual patient. Some women elect to undergo immediate breast reconstruction that occurs immediately following the mastectomy. Others may benefit more from a delayed procedure that allows the body to heal prior to the additional surgery.
Different options are available for patients. Some women may benefit from implant placement. The breast augmentation procedure is ideal because it requires less down time and faster recovery. Other women may elect for a tissue transfer, where fat and tissue is surgically removed from the back or abdomen and transferred to the breast. In some cases, these procedures are combined for the best result. Due to the nature of breast reconstruction, some women may require additional procedures prior to the surgery that allow the tissue to be stretched to accommodate the procedure.
Procedure methods will vary based on the condition of the chest after your mastectomy. Dr. Miles will discuss what you should expect for your individual procedure.
What is the recovery process like?
All of the contributing factors will affect your recovery process. Swelling and bruising is expected as the body heals. Your recovery period may vary if performed concurrently with the mastectomy, as this will affect the healing time. Most importantly, patients should rest as much as possible in the many weeks following surgery. It is recommended to have a friend or family member available to assist with household activities. Dr. Miles will guide you through the healing process.
Why should I turn to Dr. Erik Miles for my breast reconstruction in Charlotte?
Dr. Miles is a skilled surgeon who is invested in providing excellent treatment to his patients. When you entrust your treatment to him, you’ll find a level of compassion and an attention to detail that surpasses other doctors in the field. As a double board certified surgeon, he offers a level of expertise that promotes beautiful results.
If you are interested in breast reconstruction in Charlotte, contact our friendly staff at North Charlotte Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery today. We our happy to answer questions and to schedule a consultation when you call (704) 896-5556 or reach out online.
