The purpose of breast reconstruction surgery is to rebuild a breast following removal of the breast for breast cancer. This is done to restore a natural, symmetric appearance, maintain body proportion and will allow clothes to fit better especially bathing suits or lower cut dresses. It is either performed on one or both breasts. More commonly today, women choose to have both breasts removed and reconstructed as it usually optimizes better symmetry and minimizes concern about cancer developing in the opposite breast.

Our New Jersey breast reconstruction procedures are designed based on two concepts: 1. To recreate the skin envelope. 2. To restore volume. In order to restore skin envelope or match skin envelope, the same amount of skin must be present on both breasts. This may require skin taken from other parts of the body including the back, abdomen or buttock. Volume can be created either from the abdomen, buttock or an implant. Some combination of these, are used to create symmetry and will be discussed thoroughly with your surgeon during consultation. Nipples are typically created several months after the breast reconstruction surgery with any possible refinements of the breast to create better cosmetic and symmetry.

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After breast reconstruction surgery, most patients are tired and sore for a week or two, with some even taking up to six weeks to recover. You will usually be released from the hospital in 2-5 days depending on which surgery is performed. Drains can be removed anywhere from 3-10 days depending on where and what procedure was performed. There are several factors that may determine the type of surgery that you have performed. One is the degree of chemotherapy you may require or not require and radiation you may require or not require. Today, our New Jersey breast reconstruction surgery yields an excellent cosmetic result which leaves the patients feeling confident in and out of their clothes.

Click here for more information on New Jersey breast reconstruction surgery performed by Dr. Berlet in Essex County, Bergen County, and other surrounding areas.