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    Questions to Ask Your Breast Reconstruction Plastic Surgeon

    Questions to Ask Your Breast Reconstruction Plastic Surgeon

    Patients who have undergone a mastectomy for breast cancer treatment and are considering breast reconstruction plastic surgery should gather as much information as possible about this plastic surgery procedure.

    An experienced and accomplished plastic surgeon can provide the patient with insightful information on the multiple treatment options available to her and address her questions and concerns thoroughly.

    Prior to undergoing a breast reconstruction procedure, the patient should ensure that the plastic surgeon addresses all her concerns appropriately. She should ask the surgeon to clarify if she does not understand any aspect of the procedure.

    To help remember to ask essential questions during the consultation appointment, the patient can enlist these questions beforehand or ask a friend or family member to accompany her to the surgeon’s office. Devoted cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie provides breast reconstruction to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities in this region of California.

    Important Questions to Ask

    Pertaining to the following questions, the patient can also make a list of any other questions or concerns that she may have. By asking the surgeon to address these questions, she can arrive at the right decision regarding the surgery.

    • Am I a suitable candidate for breast reconstruction?
    • When is it an ideal time to undergo the breast reconstruction plastic surgery?
    • What are the benefits and drawbacks of getting breast reconstruction surgery done along with my mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) vs. waiting for a period (delayed reconstruction)?
    • Will the reconstructive surgery impact my post-op chemotherapy treatment?
    • Will breast reconstruction create problems in my radiation therapy?
    • What breast reconstruction alternatives are available for my specific case?
    • What are the advantages and limitations of each alternative?
    • Which reconstruction technique would you recommend to me and why?
    • What are the costs associated with each alternative? Will my insurer offer coverage for the breast reconstruction surgery?
    • What is the recovery period involved in each alternative?
    • What results can I expect?
    • Will the new, reconstructed breast appear the same as the other breast?
    • Would plastic surgery on the other breast help both breasts to appear similar?
    • What is the possibility of nipple reconstruction and what is the procedure for achieving this?
    • How will my new breast(s) feel?
    • Will there be sensation in the breast(s) following the reconstruction?
    • What type of risks does this procedure involve?
    • In case the flap technique is employed, will it cause scarring, pain, and changes in the body sites from where the tissue is removed?
    • If I choose implant placement, what is their longevity?
    • What impact will aging have on the reconstructed breast(s)?
    • How will weight gain or loss impact the reconstructed breast(s)?
    • What will the at-home aftercare involve?
    • Will you place surgical tubes?
    • What type of activities can I undertake at home in the initial few days after the reconstructive surgery?

    Dedicated cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie receives patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and other neighborhoods and towns in this region of the southwest for breast reconstruction.

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    Your Breast Reconstruction Consultation

    The decision to undergo breast reconstruction plastic surgery following a mastectomy can be life-changing. Therefore, the patient should carefully consider various aspects before deciding to go ahead with this procedure.

    The pre-operative consultation is an essential component of the breast reconstruction process as it gives the patient a thorough understanding of the surgery and the numerous stages that it involves over several months.

    The patient will receive detailed information on the surgery during the consultation process. Furthermore, the surgeon develops a customized plan for the patient on the basis of the insights they acquire during the pre-op consultation.

    Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie provides breast reconstruction to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding locations across the horizon.

    Sound Candidates

    A patient may have had a single or double mastectomy resulting in the removal of her breast(s). Such patients may consider a breast reconstruction plastic surgery to recreate the appearance of their breasts. The surgeon will explain the emotional and physical benefits that the patient receives with this procedure. But this surgery is not suitable for every patient.

    The surgeon will determine if the patient is currently free of cancer. They will understand the patient’s smoking habits and whether she is willing to undergo the lengthy process of reconstruction to restore the size and shape of her breast(s).

    The surgeon will also evaluate her medical records to see if she has any health conditions that may pose risks during the procedure. Furthermore, the surgeon will assess the patient’s response to her cancer diagnosis and treatment.

    Developing Expectations

    The surgeon assists the patient in forming reasonable expectations from the procedure by highlighting its benefits and drawbacks. To help the patient develop realistic expectations, the surgeon may show her before and after images of previous breast reconstruction patients. This may also help the patient comprehend that breast reconstruction surgeries vary depending on the patient’s unique anatomy and circumstances.

    Each patient has a distinct experience with cancer. Furthermore, their cosmetic and physical requirements may be different as well. Ideal candidates for breast reconstruction surgery have realistic expectations, precise goals, and a positive mindset regarding the reconstructive procedure.

    Surgical Planning

    According to the patient’s needs, the breast reconstruction procedure can be carried out in several ways. Some patients may choose to undergo mastectomy and breast reconstruction at the same time while others may have to wait for some time after the mastectomy. The surgeon will present various treatment options to the patient depending on her body type, tissue quality, and general health condition.

    The two main techniques for breast reconstruction surgery are implant and flap reconstruction. Each of these two techniques involves different surgical methods. The surgeon will discuss both these techniques with the patient to assist her in making a perspicacious and suitable choice.

    Other Factors

    The surgeon will also discuss all the possible risks involved in the procedure with the patient during the pre-op consultation. They will provide the patient with information on the type of anesthesia to be used, time taken for the surgery, and estimated costs for the procedure.

    Most patients can receive insurance coverage for breast reconstruction surgery under their insurance plans. If the patient’s insurer does not offer full coverage, they can seek information on financing options from the surgeon.

    Accomplished cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie receives patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and other towns and neighborhoods in this region of the state for breast reconstruction.

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    Preparation For Breast Reconstruction Surgery

    Breast reconstructive plastic surgery is a major procedure involving an extensive treatment process. The patient should be prepared to make the time commitment necessary for the surgery. The surgeon will provide the patient with detailed preparatory guidelines for the reconstruction surgery.

    Astute cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie provides breast reconstruction to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding locations.

    Preparing for Breast Reconstruction Surgery

    The patient will need to undertake the following preparatory steps prior to the breast reconstruction procedure:

    • Get specific tests done such as a chest x-ray, particular blood tests, and an electrocardiogram. In some cases, the surgeon may order specialized mammograms for the patient in addition to these tests.
    • In case the patient smokes, she will need to quit smoking at least one month prior to the breast reconstruction to enable proper healing.
    • Not use anti-inflammatory meds, blood thinners, and certain vitamins and herbal supplements that could cause bleeding.
    • Alter the prescription meds schedule in consultation with the primary care physician.
    • Stay appropriately hydrated for several days before and after the surgery for optimal outcomes.
    • Increase lean protein consumption and have a balanced diet for many weeks prior to the reconstruction plastic surgery procedure.

    At-Home Preparation

    The patient can transition seamlessly from the surgical facility to her home by making some advance preparations prior to the breast reconstruction procedure, including:

    • Make sure that essential items at home are placed within easy reach as the patient will not be allowed to raise her hands for a few days after the surgery.
    • Organize frozen food or ask someone to help in meal preparation for the first few days.
    • Avoid lifting weights heavier than five pounds for at least six weeks post-surgery. The patient should seek assistance for such tasks in the first few weeks after the breast reconstruction.
    • Buy essential items and clothing prior to the procedure.
    • Complete any critical home or work-related tasks before the surgery to enjoy a relaxed and comfortable recovery phase.

    Loose Clothes

    The patient may not be able to wear a top that pull over her head for some days after the reconstruction surgery. It is a good idea to procure some loose front-open shirts and sweatshirts beforehand. Sweatshirts with internal pockets can be useful for storing the drain pipes.

    Other Suggestions

    Before the surgery, the patient should place some extra pillows and blankets on her bed. She may set-up a bedside recovery station on a nightstand with a mobile phone, remotes, magazines, a handheld mirror, and a medicine box.

    Furthermore, she should arrange for some measuring cups in the bathroom for drain tube evacuation as recommended by the surgeon. The patient should also arrange for aftercare according to her specific needs to enjoy a relaxed and comfortable recovery period.

    Accomplished cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie receives patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and other towns and cities in this area of SoCal for breast reconstruction surgery.

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    How to Get Natural-Looking Breast Implants

    Surgeons commonly hear concerns from potential breast augmentation surgery patients regarding the possibility that their breasts may appear fake or artificial after the procedure.

    But advancements in breast augmentation cosmetic surgery techniques and technologies have made it possible to accomplish natural-looking breasts after a breast enhancement surgery.

    Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie provides breast augmentation surgery to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities.

    Following are some tips to help in the selection of natural-looking breast implants.

    Tip #1: Assess the Appearance and Feel of Implants

    Breast implants are available in two shapes-round and teardrop (anatomical implants). Round implants offer an equal projection on the top and bottom, and teardrop implants provide more projection on the bottom rather than the top.

    For patients concerned about natural-looking outcomes, teardrop-shaped implants may be suitable. These implants are similar to the natural breast tissue slope. The filling of the implant is also a consideration.

    In comparison to saline implants, traditional silicone and gummy bear implants (highly cohesive implants) offer a more natural look and feel to the breasts. The patient will have an opportunity to touch and hold various types of implants during the consultation process.

    Tip #2 Choose an Appropriate Implant Size

    The plastic surgeon will take measurements of the patient during the consultation or at the following sizing appointment.

    These measurements will help the surgeon assess the most suitable implant size for the patient on the basis of her body mass, frame, and available breast tissue. The patient may be able to try on various sized implants. This is an excellent way to understand how different implants will appear after the plastic surgery procedure.

    Implants typically appear unnatural when the chosen implant size is outside the size range suggested by the breast augmentation surgeon. The surgeon recommends implant size based on the patient’s body proportions. Choosing implants that are outside the size range recommended by the surgeon could make them look disproportionate to the body and artificial.

    The patient may “try-on” various implant sizes with an implant sizer kit. This enables them to visualize how an implant will appear post-surgically and choose a size that looks most natural to her.

    Tip #3: Assess the Skin Quality and Existing Breast Tissue

    The surgeon will assess the patient’s breast size, tissue availability, and skin elasticity during the pre-operative consultation. These factors impact the choice of implant size for a natural appearance. If the patient receives breast implants that are too substantial for her chest or skin to cover adequately, it could lead to outcomes that look fake and unnatural.

    Tip #4: Digital Imaging Technology Use

    The use of digital imaging technology is a key advancement in the area of breast augmentation. Several surgeons use this technology to offer patients the opportunity to visualize their potential outcomes from a breast enhancement procedure.

    The surgeon takes images of the patient’s breasts and uploads these photos to a computer to enable the patient to see how their breasts will appear with implants of different sizes and shapes.

    Tip #5: Choose a Skilled Breast Surgeon

    The surest way to achieve natural looking outcomes with breast augmentation is to select the right surgeon with expertise in breast implant procedures. The surgeon should preferably have extensive past experience in all types of breast cosmetic surgeries, including breast enlargement.

    You should also request for a few patient testimonials and breast implant before and after photos to feel more assured about the surgeon’s skills in producing natural looking results.
    Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie receives patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and nearby areas for breast implants.

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