Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Serving Denver, Lone Tree, Colorado & Nationwide
Some women are good candidates for breast reconstruction performed at the same time as mastectomy. This procedure is known as the direct to implant technique. Silicone and saline breast implants are both options for this procedure. To learn more, please call The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery at 303-706-1100 .
Single-Stage Reconstruction with Breast Implants
The single-stage procedure has no tissue expansion phase. In other types of implant-based breast reconstruction, tissue expanders are placed within the breasts, where they remain for several weeks in order to stretch the skin. Once the skin is adequately expanded, our plastic surgeons place the breast implants. But in a single-stage procedure, the tissues do not need to be expanded. A few of the benefits of this approach include the following:
- Fewer office visits
- More rapid return to all of your normal activities
- Provides an immediate return to a positive body image
Your breast implants will be placed in the same surgery in which your cancer is removed. After your cancer surgeon performs the mastectomy, our board-certified plastic surgeons will place the implants. Upon the conclusion of the operation, you will have a restored body without the discomfort of spending any time with altered breasts.
Choosing Your Mastectomy
In consultation with your cancer surgeon, and depending on the specifics of your cancer diagnosis, you may be able to choose one of the following types of mastectomies:
The advantage of a nipple-sparing mastectomy is that your reconstruction is finalized in one procedure. If you are not a good candidate for this type of mastectomy, then you will come back for another surgical appointment to reconstruct the appearance of a nipple and areola.
Am I a Candidate for Single-Stage Breast Reconstruction?
Visit our experienced plastic surgeons to find out if you are a good candidate for single-stage breast reconstruction. During your consultation, they will make sure you are fully informed of all of your options, as well as the pros and cons associated with each.
Generally, under the following conditions, you may be a good candidate for a single-stage breast reconstruction:
- Relatively small breasts with tissue that does not require expansion
- Relatively small breasted without a desire to increase breast size
- No history of radiation to the breast or chest wall
Many of the women who choose this reconstruction technique fall into one of the following categories:
- First-time breast cancer diagnosis
- Placed at a high risk for developing breast cancer because of a BRCA positive diagnosis
Direct to implant reconstruction can also be a good option for women who have chosen a prophylactic mastectomy.
To find out if you are a good candidate for direct to implant, single-stage breast reconstruction, please call The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery at 303-706-1100 . Experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Jeremy Williams and Dr. Christopher Williams are proud to serve women from across Colorado, including the Denver and Lone Tree areas.
FAQs
What Happens During Direct To Implant Breast Reconstruction?
A surgeon performs direct to implant breast reconstruction immediately after a mastectomy. The process goes as follows:
- The breast surgeon removes the breast tissue while also preserving as much skin as possible.
- After the mastectomy, the plastic surgeon may place acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to support the implant.
- The chosen implant is then inserted into the breast pocket. The pocket is shaped to provide a natural appearance.
This process eliminates the need for multiple surgeries. It offers immediate breast restoration with fewer steps compared to traditional methods.
What Is the Typical Recovery Time for Direct To Implant Breast Reconstruction?
Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort immediately after their surgery. You can manage these symptoms with medications prescribed by your surgeon.
It is important to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities during the first few weeks of recovery. Most patients can return to light activities and work within 2 to 3 weeks. Full healing is usually expected by the six-week mark.
Remember that recovery from direct to implant breast reconstruction varies for each individual. Your surgeon can provide a more detailed timeline during your consultation.
What Types of Implants Are Available for This Surgery?
Two primary types of implants are available for direct to implant breast reconstruction:
- Silicone: Silicone implants contain a cohesive gel, which mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They are a popular choice for their realistic texture and appearance.
- Saline: Saline implants contain sterile salt water. The surgeon can adjust them for size during the breast reconstruction procedure.
Both types of implants come in a range of shapes, sizes, and profiles. They allow for customization to help you achieve your desired aesthetic outcome.
Should I Choose Silicone and Saline Implants?
Silicone implants tend to feel more like natural breast tissue and have a lower risk of rippling. This makes them more suitable for women with less natural breast tissue.
Saline implants offer the advantage of adjustable volume during surgery. They also need a smaller incision.
Consult with your surgeon at The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery before making your decision. They will help you understand the benefits and potential drawbacks of each type.
Why Choose The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery?
Choosing The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery for direct to implant breast reconstruction in Lone Tree, CO, means receiving exceptional care from experienced, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons.
Dr. Christopher G. Williams and Dr. Jeremy Z. Williams share a dedication to helping breast cancer survivors regain wholeness. You can trust them and their committed team to hold themselves to the highest standards at all times.
Most procedures are performed at Park Meadows Outpatient Surgery (PMOS). This is a state-licensed surgical center accredited by The Joint Commission. The facility offers a private, comfortable environment equipped for comfortable overnight stays.Â
