Rebuilding Confidence: What to Expect from Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy

Breast reconstruction is more than a physical procedure. For many women, it’s a deeply personal choice that marks a new beginning after breast cancer treatment. Understanding what to expect from breast reconstruction can ease anxiety, provide clarity, and help guide your recovery.

At Little Rock Plastic Surgery, your care is overseen by Dr. Michael Spann, a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in reconstructive breast surgery. Dr. Spann is fellowship-trained, with a surgical background grounded in advanced cosmetic and reconstructive techniques. He is known for his detailed approach, patient-focused care, and commitment to developing individualized plans that respect your anatomy, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

What to Expect from Breast Reconstruction

Reconstruction can happen at the time of mastectomy or later. Each woman’s experience is different, but understanding the common phases of care can help prepare you for what lies ahead:

• Initial Consultation: You’ll meet with Dr. Spann to review your medical history, discuss surgery options, and align your reconstruction goals with your breast cancer treatment.
• Surgical Planning: Depending on your needs, options include implant reconstruction or flap reconstruction using tissue from your body.
• First Stage Surgery: This may include placement of a tissue expander or direct-to-implant reconstruction.
• Follow-Up Procedures: Later surgeries refine the shape or reconstruct the nipple and areola, usually done as outpatient procedures.

This multi-phase process ensures your results evolve in harmony with your healing journey.

Is Breast Reconstruction Right for Me?

Not every woman chooses to have reconstruction, and that’s okay. Some health conditions may also affect timing or eligibility. Still, for many, it restores balance and boosts self-esteem. Here are key points to consider when deciding:

• Current health status: Conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes may require extra planning.
• Lifestyle: Recovery can take several weeks, so consider timing and available support.
• Cancer treatment plan: Some patients begin reconstruction during mastectomy; others wait until recovery.

Dr. Spann will walk you through the options, helping you make the right choice.

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

While every patient’s experience is unique, most women feel more confident and whole after surgery. Here are some of the most appreciated benefits:

• Symmetry: Helps clothing fit more comfortably and enhances body proportion.
• Confidence: Many women say it improves their self-image and daily comfort.
• Customization: Techniques can be adapted to match your natural breast closely.

In a large study of more than 1,500 women, researchers followed participants for up to 15 years after diagnosis to evaluate satisfaction with surgery and breast reconstruction. The findings? Over 90% of women were satisfied with their treatment choices, and this satisfaction persisted over time.

Talk to a Trusted Surgeon in Little Rock

Explore your options for breast reconstruction in Little Rock with Dr. Michael Spann, a skilled reconstructive breast surgeon dedicated to delivering results that respect your body and your choices. Schedule a consultation by calling 501.219.8000 to learn more.