Cosmetic Breast Reconstruction

Secondary breast reconstruction at Dr. Vitolo Plastic Surgery is a transformative procedure for women who have undergone initial breast reconstruction but are seeking improvements in appearance, comfort or symmetry. Thanks to new advancements in plastic and reconstructive surgery techniques, we’re able to refine and improve upon previous reconstruction results, as well as address any issues or changes that have occurred over time. 

Located in Staten Island, NY and serving the broader New York City area including Brooklyn, Manhattan and New Jersey, we invite you to schedule a consultation to explore how secondary breast reconstruction can enhance your quality of life and self-confidence.

What is Secondary Breast Reconstruction?

Secondary breast reconstruction is a specialized surgical procedure tailored for women who have had previous breast reconstruction, typically after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. This procedure focuses on refining or correcting the results of the initial reconstruction. It can involve resizing, reshaping or adjusting the reconstructed breasts, often using techniques like fat grafting or breast implant replacement to achieve a more natural and comfortable outcome.

Benefits 

• Improved symmetry and shape of the breasts.
• Resolution of any complications from the initial reconstruction
• A more natural appearance and feel
• Boosted self-esteem and body image

Ideal Candidates for Secondary Breast Reconstruction

Secondary breast reconstruction is most suitable for women who:

• Have undergone previous breast reconstruction following mastectomy or lumpectomy
• Experience issues with their initial reconstruction, such as asymmetry, discomfort or dissatisfaction with the appearance
• Want to take advantage of new reconstructive techniques, such as nipple creation

However, it is not recommended for patients currently undergoing certain cancer treatments or those with unmanaged chronic health conditions. Discuss your complete medical history with Dr. Vitolo at your consultation to ensure you’re a good candidate.

Before & Afters

The results of secondary breast reconstruction vary based on individual circumstances and the specific procedures performed. Generally, improvements can be seen immediately, with the final outcome becoming more apparent as the healing progresses, usually over several weeks to months. The changes are not just physical; many women report a significant boost in their self-image and comfort post-recovery.

What to Expect from Your Breast Reconstruction

Consultation 

Your path to secondary breast reconstruction at Dr. Vitolo Plastic Surgery starts with an initial consultation. Here, we’ll review your medical history, assess the results of previous reconstructive surgery and discuss your goals for the procedure. This session is crucial for understanding your expectations and planning the most effective approach to meet your needs.

Procedure

For the surgery, you’ll be placed under local anesthetic with sedation; more extensive procedures may require general anesthesia. 

Depending on your unique case, your breast surgery may involve various techniques:

• Implant revision: Replacing or adjusting existing saline or silicone implants to improve shape or address complications
• Fat grafting: Using your body’s fat to enhance the contour and softness of the reconstructed breast
• Tissue flap adjustments: Refining the shape and position of previously used tissue flaps for a more natural appearance
• Nipple creation or revision: Creating or improving the appearance of a nipple
• Areola repigmentation: Medical tattooing to create a more natural-looking areola
• Mastopexy: Lifting an unaffected breast to better match the reconstructed one

Recovery

The recovery process varies based on the specific procedure performed. Generally, you can expect some downtime with a focus on healing and minimizing discomfort. We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure you’re satisfied with the results.

Post-Treatment Care

Adhering to post-operative care instructions is essential for a successful outcome. This includes managing pain, caring for incision sites and following guidelines for physical activities. Our team at Dr. Vitolo Plastic Surgery is committed to providing ongoing support throughout your recovery.

Cost of Breast Reconstruction in Staten Island, NY

The cost of secondary breast reconstruction can vary widely depending on the complexity of the procedure and the techniques used. At Dr. Vitolo Plastic Surgery, we provide detailed consultations to discuss the financial aspects and offer information about potential financing options. Please contact us for a personalized quote.

Related Treatments

At Dr. Vitolo Plastic Surgery in Staten Island, NY, we offer a variety of surgical and cosmetic procedures designed to enhance your confidence and contribute to your overall sense of well-being.

• Scar Less Breast Augmentation: This procedure involves enhancing the size and shape of your bust using breast implants. It’s ideal for individuals looking to increase breast fullness and achieve a more balanced figure.
• Breast Lift: A breast lift, or mastopexy, raises and firms the breasts by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue. This subtler approach to breast enhancement can create a more youthful and uplifted look after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss.
• Breast Reduction: This surgery reduces the size of large breasts, alleviating discomfort such as back and neck pain and creating a more proportionate breast size. It’s a great option for individuals seeking physical relief and a more balanced body silhouette.
• Scar Less Tummy Tuck: Also known as abdominoplasty, this procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and restores weakened or separated muscles, resulting in a smoother and firmer abdominal profile. It’s particularly beneficial for those who have experienced significant weight loss or post-pregnancy changes.
• Scar Less Liposuction: This popular cosmetic surgery removes excess fat from specific areas like the abdomen, hips, thighs and arms, offering a more contoured and toned appearance. Liposuction is suitable for individuals close to their ideal body weight who want to refine their body shape.
• Scar Less Facial Procedures: We specialize in Scar Less versions of blepharoplasty, facelifts, rhinoplasty and other plastic surgery procedures to address signs of aging and sculpt your facial profile with less downtime and scarring.

FAQs

Am I eligible if my first surgery was many years ago?

Yes, you can pursue secondary breast reconstruction at any point, no matter how long ago your first reconstruction was performed. Time elapsed since the initial reconstruction does not typically hinder the possibility of undergoing a secondary procedure. It’s important, however, to have a thorough consultation to assess the current state of your reconstructed breasts and discuss your goals and options for the secondary surgery.

How long should I wait after my initial reconstruction to consider a secondary procedure?

It’s generally recommended to wait until you’ve fully healed from your initial reconstruction and any adjuvant therapies, such as radiation or chemotherapy, are completed. This could range from several months to a year or more.

Is secondary breast reconstruction covered by health insurance?

In many cases, health insurance does cover secondary breast reconstruction. This coverage is often mandated by law for breast reconstruction following a mastectomy, which includes secondary or revision procedures. However, it’s important to consult with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your policy, including coverage limits and any required documentation.