Breast Reconstruction
Dr. Richard Fakin / Cirugía de Pecho / Reconstrucción Mamaria
Breast Reconstruction
Madrid | Zurich
A woman’s bust is, by its very nature, a symbol of femininity, beauty, and harmony. When breast anatomy is compromised due to cancer, genetic risk, or other causes, it can be a traumatic experience. Breast reconstruction can be performed using autologous (patient’s own) tissue or silicone implants, making it one of the most significant procedures in reparative surgery.
Thanks to cutting-edge reconstructive techniques, it is possible to perform breast reconstruction at the same time as a mastectomy or in separate procedures, depending on each patient’s situation. The main goal is not only to restore the breast but also to improve quality of life following a pathology or systemic risk.
Breast reconstruction is considered a therapeutic or prophylactic concept that integrates both reparative and aesthetic surgery, with the aim of restoring function as well as appearance.
Motiva
JOY™ is an all-in-one program that provides women with a premium breast augmentation experience. It includes the latest Motiva® implant technology through Ergonomix2® a minimal-incision procedure delivered by JOY™ partners, and support for their journey through our interactive digital tools. It’s an honor for Dr.Fakin to be part of this proyect.
Surgical Techniques in Breast Reconstruction
There are many specific mastectomy and reconstruction procedures. The choice depends on the type, location, and extent of the tumor, as well as factors such as the patient’s age, general health, and personal preferences.
Breasts can be reconstructed using the patient’s own tissue, breast implants, or muscle/fasciocutaneous flaps from other parts of the body. Generally, we distinguish two main approaches:
1. Autologous Breast Reconstruction
This technique does not require external materials such as silicone implants. It may involve autologous fat grafting (lipofilling) or tissue flaps (e.g., DIEP flap, TRAM flap). The patient’s own tissue is used to restore breast volume, achieving a very natural outcome.
1. Autologous Breast Reconstruction
This technique does not require external materials such as silicone implants. It may involve autologous fat grafting (lipofilling) or tissue flaps (e.g., DIEP flap, TRAM flap). The patient’s own tissue is used to restore breast volume, achieving a very natural outcome.
2. Reconstruction with an Implant
In this procedure, the removed breast is replaced with silicone implants or a temporary tissue expander that is gradually filled with saline to stretch the skin and achieve the desired breast size. Once the appropriate expansion is reached, the definitive implant can be placed.
In some cases, an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is used to reinforce the area and optimize implant coverage, providing greater stability and an aesthetically pleasing result.
3. Supplementary Fat Grafting
Frequently, lipofilling is performed at the end of the reconstruction process to correct minor defects, improve symmetry, or enhance implant coverage. This helps achieve a more uniform and natural final appearance.
4. Nipple reconstruction:
This is the final procedure of the entire breast reconstruction process. A local flap or coming from the other nipple is used to accomplish a symmetrical, harmonious and natural looking nipple.
To learn more about our Breast Reconstruction surgeries using implants, see our Instagram posts.
More about Breast Reconstruction with implants and scars
Existing scars from a previous mastectomy can often be used as the entry point for placing the new implant.
When the skin envelope is insufficient, a tissue expander may be used to generate enough skin to obtain the desired breast size. This expander is regularly filled with saline until the target volume is reached; as the expander inflates, the skin gradually stretches. Once the required volume is achieved, the expander is replaced by a permanent silicone implant.
To learn more about our Breast Reconstruction surgeries using implants, see our Facebook posts.
Postoperative care after a Breast Reconstruction surgery
In our clinics, we dedicate all our resources to supporting patients throughout their postoperative period:
- Local Anesthesia or Sedation: Administered temporarily to minimize postoperative discomfort.
- Absorbable Sutures: Usually, they do not need to be removed, as they dissolve naturally.
- Special Bra: After surgery, it is recommended to wear it for 4 to 6 weeks to ensure proper support and healing.
Precautions: It is crucial to avoid lifting objects heavier than 5 kg and refrain from strenuous activities during recovery.
To learn more about our Breast Reconstruction surgeries using implants, see our Instagram posts.
Before and after, real cases
