Q:
I had a mastectomy in 2008 with implant reconstruction. I had the implants exchanged during additional procedures to help improve the look of the breast. I am very unhappy with how I look as it is very unnatural. I am not opposed to a procedure with another implant if done correctly. Is this something you do? Otherwise I may need to consider alternatives as I feel so uncomfortable in my own skin.
Thanks,
V
A: Hi V,
Thanks for your inquiry.
We frequently revise implant reconstructions to improve patient satisfaction. For several years, we have done essentially all of our implant-based reconstructions in front of the pectoralis muscle, which confers a number of significant benefits in terms of comfort, appearance and naturalness (compared to behind-the-muscle). I also have converted a number of patients with older behind-the-muscle reconstructions to modern in-front-of-the-muscle reconstructions, and they all feel the result is much nicer.
If implant reconstruction still proved unacceptable to you, using your own tissue is another powerful option. We have completed more than 1,800 natural tissue reconstructions – many in women who previously had unsatisfactory implant reconstruction – with great success.
I would be happy to see you in consultation, or discuss your situation in more detail by phone, if you wish. Please let us know what works for you.
Best,
Richard M. Kline, Jr., MD