Breast Reconstruction

1. What is Breast Reconstruction?
2. MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS
3. Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery Right for Me?
4. The level of care is excellent.
5. Breast Reconstruction Procedure Options
6. Contact Us Today
7. ABOUT US & EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION
8. CONTACT US

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction surgery is performed to recreate the breasts following surgery to treat breast cancer. At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, Dr. Ley does not perform breast reconstruction procedures herself. However, we have compiled a list of recommended local plastic surgery resources to help you find the right breast reconstruction surgeon for you. 

Board-Certified Surgeon

MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS

Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.

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Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery Right for Me?

Women choose to undergo breast reconstruction for various reasons. These may include feeling more confident in their bodies, helping their clothing to fit better, and more.

However, it is important to understand that following a lumpectomy or mastectomy, the reconstructed breast will not look identical to the natural breast. This is especially true if tissue from other areas of your body was used as part of the reconstruction process.

It is also important to understand that breast reconstruction surgery will leave scars, though they will fade over time. Newer surgical techniques can also reduce the amount of scarring.

“The level of care is excellent.”

Dr. Ley is an excellence breast oncology surgeon, with incredible knowledge and genuine compassion. From the initial consultation to post-operative care, Dr. Ley’s meticulous approach and comprehensive understanding of breast oncology instilled confidence and eased my anxieties. The dedication to her patient’s well-being extends far beyond medical procedures; she fosters a supportive environment where empathy and personalized care is a priority.What sets Dr. Ley apart is her ability to treat not just the disease but the individual, providing unwavering support and guidance throughout the journey. Her warmth, coupled with a skilled surgical hand, empower patients with hope and resilience. Dr. Ley’s practice, marked by professionalism and kindness from every member of her team, ensures that patients receive not only top-notch medical care but also a nurturing environment conducive to healing. Dr. Ley is a beacon of hope and excellence in battling breast cancer.

Dr. Ley helped me through the first round of BC in 2017 with kindness, compassion and expertise! I had absolutely no reservations when trusting her for a 2021 and now for the 3rd time I can’t imagine going through this without her. She is a lion when it comes to fighting for you, calls you personally even though she has to be the busiest Dr. and mother I know. She’s considerate of your needs, fears and concerns and never lets you go it alone. Can’t say enough good!

Breast Reconstruction Procedure Options

Breast reconstruction can be achieved with an implant or tissue flap. Some procedures are performed at the same time as mastectomy or lumpectomy, while others may be done at a later time. After all forms of breast reconstruction, there is usually an opportunity for future procedures to “touch up” the results, such as scar revisions, fat grafting, and nipple-areolar recreation.

Breast Reconstruction with Implants

Following mastectomy, the shape of the breast can be reconstructed using breast implants. This is usually achieved through at least two procedures. The first surgery involves the placement of a tissue expander, which will gradually be extended during office visits until the desired size is achieved. The second surgery involves replacing the tissue expander with a breast implant.

Women can choose from saline or silicone breast implants. Saline implants are made up of a silicone shell and filled with sterile salt water. Silicone breast implants are made up of a silicone shell and filled with silicone gel. Each type of implant offers its own pros and cons, which can be discussed with your surgeon.

Flap Breast Reconstruction Procedures

A tissue flap procedure is an option to reconstruct your breasts using your own tissue instead of breast implants. Tissue can be taken from other areas of the body such as the back, tummy, thighs, or buttocks to rebuild and reshape and breast. While tissue flaps look and feel more natural than implants, these procedures require a longer recovery time.

There are many different types of tissue flap procedures, including:

Pedicle Flaps: A pedicle flap involves transferring tissue from another area of the body to the chest wall while it is still attached to its original blood supply. Common types of pedicle flap procedures include the latissimus dorsi (LD) flap and transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap (though there are many more as well).

Free Flaps: A free flap involves transferring tissue, fat, skin, and possible muscle from one area of the body to create a new breast. This means that tissues are completely removed from the body and moved to the chest. The blood vessels must then be reconnected to the chest wall vessels through microsurgery for the tissue to survive.

Contact Us Today

We understand that the decision to undergo breast reconstruction surgery can bring about many emotions. At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, we are here to provide compassionate, kind, and outstanding patient care. Please contact our Tucson, AZ office today to schedule a consultation.

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