Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Serving Denver, Lone Tree, Colorado & Nationwide
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is a difficult experience that focuses your attention on the present, specifically treating and overcoming the disease. At the same time, it is equally as important to take a long-term perspective, planning for survivorship and a return to normal. At The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery, we advocate for thinking about breast reconstruction from the start, in order to have greater control over your journey and access to a broader range of reconstructive options.
Our board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons are committed to helping you meet this diagnosis feeling well-informed about your path and hopeful for your future. We want to provide you with peace of mind regarding the natural, aesthetically-pleasing results that can await you after overcoming your battle with cancer.
It is never too early to start the conversation about breast reconstruction. Call 303-706-1100 today to schedule your initial consultation. We serve Lone Tree, Denver, and the surrounding areas of Colorado.
Thinking About Breast Reconstruction at the Time of Diagnosis
In the face of mastectomy or lumpectomy, it is not vain to care about how your breasts will look after cancer treatment. In fact, it is in your best interest to begin exploring your options for reconstruction at the time of your breast cancer diagnosis. Among other things, early planning can inform your mastectomy options.
By considering breast reconstruction from the beginning, you will be a candidate for a greater number of surgical options. This is due to the fact that some approaches must be performed at the time of your mastectomy or lumpectomy.
For example, oncoplastic surgery — which utilizes plastic surgery techniques alongside breast surgical oncology — is often an option during a large lumpectomy. This approach involves sculpting the remaining tissue, repositioning the nipple and areola, and potentially modifying the opposite breast to create a symmetrical, natural-looking breast profile.
Advanced planning is also required for time-sensitive options such as immediate reconstruction or staged reconstruction. These terms refer to breast reconstruction that begins on the same day as mastectomy surgery. Potential steps could include:
- Placing a tissue expander
- Performing direct-to-implant reconstruction
- Performing autologous breast reconstruction
Taking the Initiative in Your Breast Cancer Journey
As someone newly diagnosed with breast cancer, your care will largely be overseen and directed by surgical and medical oncologists. Therefore, the importance you may place on reconstruction can be heavily influenced by these medical professionals. They may or may not consider reconstruction an integral part of your treatment plan. You can direct the conversation by advocating for your reconstruction needs and desires.
Today, there is a growing movement in favor of the team approach to fighting breast cancer. The team approach involves assembling a multi-disciplinary group of healthcare professionals, including a:
- Radiologist
- Plastic and reconstructive surgeon
- Medical oncologist
- Surgical oncologist
These medical professionals work together to plan and implement a tailored treatment schedule. When put into practice at the time of diagnosis, this approach is known to improve patient outcomes. Talk to our plastic and reconstructive surgeons today to learn more about implementing the team approach during your breast cancer journey.
Paying for Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Your health insurance plan should cover your breast reconstruction. The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 requires insurance providers that pay for mastectomy surgery to also cover reconstruction. This coverage includes any additional procedures needed to refine your reconstructed breasts or improve symmetry.
Our in-office administrative team will work with you and your insurance provider to check what is covered under your plan and help you estimate any out-of-pocket expenses. They can also help you navigate the process of visiting our practice if we are not in your network.
Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, schedule an initial consultation at 303-706-1100 or online to start the breast reconstruction discussion. Our kind, compassionate team of board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons will patiently answer your questions and help you learn about your options. The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery welcomes patients from Denver and Lone Tree, Colorado as well as across the country.
