More Innovations Mean Breast Surgery Is Better Than Ever
As a plastic and reconstructive surgery specialist who's devoted much of my career to education, I…Read On
TLKM Plastic Surgery
737 North Michigan Avenue #1500
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (312) 788-2560
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Given that the choice to have breast reconstruction surgery is very personal, Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno use their extensive experience and knowledge to help patients choose the best path for them, so that they can feel empowered, beautiful, and confident.
What Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Breast reconstruction surgery is a cosmetic procedure that rebuilds the breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, often due to breast cancer. Reconstruction may happen simultaneously with cancer treatment or months or years later. Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno are committed to helping women navigate their options to achieve results that help them feel like themselves again.
Some of the advanced breast reconstruction options Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno offer include:
Reconstruction With Breast Implants
For most women, breast reconstruction with implants is a preferred option for restoring volume after a mastectomy. Our surgeons offer breast implants in both silicone gel, which feels more natural, and saline, which are easier to replace and do not need to be monitored for leaking.
To create space for the breast implant within a patient’s natural tissue, Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno first uses a tissue expander. This temporary device is gradually filled with a saline solution, allowing the body to develop a suitable pocket to accommodate the implant. After several weeks of expansion, the expander is replaced with a long-term breast implant in a second procedure. This two-step approach ensures the best possible outcome for a natural and symmetrical breast shape.
TLKM Plastic SurgeryFlap Reconstruction
This technique involves using tissue from another area of the body to rebuild the breast mound. For patients seeking a more natural reconstruction option, Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno offer two types of flap reconstruction:
- Latissimus flap reconstruction uses tissue from the upper back/shoulder area. It is typically combined with a small breast implant to achieve your desired shape and volume. This approach offers a shorter surgery and recovery window.
- Transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) reconstruction uses tissue from the lower abdomen to recreate the breast mound. It involves a longer surgery and recovery, but typically delivers the best aesthetic outcome.
Delayed Reconstruction
While many patients want to undergo reconstruction immediately after their mastectomy, some cases require a delayed approach. If additional cancer treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy, are needed, delaying reconstruction is a better course of action to ensure optimal healing and results. Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno use the same techniques with implants or flaps as in other cases to produce natural-looking, long-lasting results while prioritizing your health and recovery.
Fat Transfer
To enhance your breast reconstruction results, our surgeons may use fat transfer, or fat grafting, a natural technique that refines breast shape and contours. This involves harvesting fat cells from areas such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs and carefully transferring them to the breasts. Natural breast augmentation offers a win-win solution for patients who wish to achieve subtle volume without using breast implants while simultaneously refining and contouring other areas of the body.
Chicago's
Premier Plastic Surgeons
Dr. Thomas Mustoe and Dr. Sammy Sinno are board-certified plastic surgeons renowned in Chicago and beyond for their unparalleled expertise, refined surgical techniques, and exceptional patient outcomes. Together, they set the gold standard in plastic surgery treatment and care, delivering:
- Safe, best-in-class protocols
- Minimal scarring and bruising
- Customized, natural-looking results
- Faster, more comfortable recovery
- Use of local anesthesia with sedation
- State-of-the-art Facility
Your Customized Breast Reconstruction Procedure
Breast reconstruction is typically more complex than other cosmetic breast enhancement surgeries. At their Chicago practice, Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno use advanced techniques to make each patient’s journey as smooth as possible. During reconstruction, they can:
- Restore breasts that have been removed during a single or double mastectomy
- Repair breasts that have been affected by a lumpectomy
- Correct the position of nipples or construct new nipples (if they have been removed)
- Bring the breasts into balance if only one breast has been affected by cancer treatment
They’ll collaborate with you and your cancer treatment team to assess your physical concerns, cancer treatment protocol, recommended recovery time, potential risk factors, and aesthetic expectations.
Your Recovery and Results
Breast reconstruction patients benefit from Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno’s expertise in minimizing tissue trauma, leading to a faster, more comfortable recovery. Dr. Mustoe’s research in wound healing allows both surgeons to use advanced techniques that promote optimal healing and minimal scarring. Their best-in-class surgical and recovery protocols include:
- Detailed pain management and incision care: Thorough aftercare instructions covering medications, incision care, and guidelines to support accelerated healing
- Prompt removal of surgical drains: Most patients have a surgical drain in place for only one week, although flap reconstruction requires a longer recovery
- Reduced swelling and bruising: Advanced surgical techniques minimize trauma to surrounding tissues, contributing to faster healing and recovery
While everyone’s recovery is unique, breast reconstruction surgery generally includes these recovery stages and milestones:
Week 1
- Rest and limited activity
- Removal of surgical drains
2 to 3 Weeks
- Gradual return to light activities
- Swelling and bruising gradually decrease
4 to 6 Weeks
- Resume most regular activities (implant-based reconstruction); flap reconstruction patients require additional time
3 to 6 Months
- Final results emerge
- Scars gradually fade
Some patients may benefit from follow-up procedures for nipple reconstruction or pigmenting. During your private consultation, Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno will discuss these options with you in detail and develop a personalized surgical plan to support a smooth, comprehensive physical and emotional recovery.
Dr. Mustoe’s “Quick Recovery” Approach
Unlike many of his plastic surgery peers, Dr. Mustoe favors using local anesthesia with sedation vs. general anesthesia. This innovative approach reduces the risk of blood clots, avoids postoperative “brain fog,” and leads to a faster, more comfortable recovery. Dr. Mustoe has lectured internationally about his groundbreaking use of sedation during plastic surgery, and he has published extensive research on this approach in leading medical journals.
Breast Reconstruction FAQ
How much does breast reconstruction cost in Chicago, IL?
Because health insurance is required by law to pay for breast reconstruction and work on the other breast if needed, patients should not need to concern themselves with the cost. Additionally, as this is such a highly personalized procedure, and breast reconstruction operations vary widely, a price quote online is not possible.
Are there risks involved with breast reconstruction surgery?
Every surgery has associated risks, including breast reconstruction surgery. While rare, potential risks include infection, seroma, bleeding, or excessive scarring. Some patients may also experience a loss of sensation in the nipples and breasts. Choosing an experienced, reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno is essential to minimize these surgical risks.
How soon do you need to have breast reconstruction?
There’s no set timetable for breast reconstruction surgery. Some women have it immediately at the time of mastectomy, and some women wait many years. The right timing depends on your unique medical needs, personal preferences, and treatment plan. Dr. Mustoe and Dr. Sinno collaborate with your care team to determine the safest and best approach for your needs.
Schedule Your Breast Reconstruction Consultation
If you’re ready to complete your breast cancer journey by exploring breast reconstruction options in Chicago, we encourage you to request a consultation with our experienced, compassionate breast reconstruction surgeons. You can also call us at (312) 788-2560 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno.