- Restores breast shape and symmetry after mastectomy or trauma
- Helps clothing fit comfortably and naturally
- Rebuilds body confidence after breast loss
- Offers both implant-based and natural tissue options
- Can be performed immediately or delayed based on health and cancer treatment plan
- Often covered by insurance under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA)
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Breast Reconstruction
Mastectomy and trauma restoration procedures in Concord, CA
If you have had a mastectomy or have been told that you will need one, breast reconstruction may be an option for you. Breast reconstruction is a series of operations designed to recreate your breast in its original shape.
For breast cancer survivors, breast reconstruction can help to heal the emotional trauma and complete the sense of recovery following their cancer journey.
Plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Mariotti has been trained extensively in the latest reconstructive surgery techniques and consistently provides excellent breast reconstruction results that look natural for women visiting his Concord plastic surgery practice.
Dr. Mariotti believes that warmth and compassion are important for all patients, especially for those women who have been through the trauma of cancer. At MBody, we look forward to meeting with you to discuss your options.
Benefits
Surgical Notes
Procedure Length: 2 to 6 hours, depending on the type of reconstruction performed. May require staged procedures spaced weeks or months apart
Side Effects: Noticeable scar on the breast surface. Bruising, swelling, and discomfort. Limited range of motion due to donor tissue removal
Anesthesia: General anesthesia
Exercise and Activity: Resume normal activities between 6 to 8 weeks
What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a surgical approach that rebuilds the shape of the breast after mastectomy, lumpectomy, or injury. We can create a balanced chest shape whether you need reconstruction on one breast or both. During this procedure, we may rebuild the breast using your own tissue, implants, or a combination of the two. We guide you through your options so you can make the decision that feels right for you.
Who Chooses Breast Reconstruction?
For many years, mastectomies were performed without any chance of reconstruction at all, but today you have a choice. Some women don’t feel breast reconstruction is necessary and would rather opt out of additional surgeries.
Many women, however, have a sense of loss from their mastectomy that can be remedied through reconstructive breast surgery.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
If you decide that you would like to pursue breast reconstruction, there are two choices: immediate or delayed reconstruction.
Book Your ConsultationImmediate Reconstruction
Immediate reconstruction can begin at the time of your mastectomy. In fact, the first step is during the mastectomy procedure. This approach to reconstruction helps avoid additional operations and reduces repeated exposure to general anesthesia. Other advantages include the absence of scar tissue (which could build up from an older mastectomy) and the fact that the breast skin still retains its size and shape from your original breast. In some instances, however, breast cancer or other medical conditions may make immediate reconstruction unfeasible.
Delayed Reconstruction
Delayed reconstruction is performed some period of time after the mastectomy, often after all necessary chemotherapy or radiation treatments have been completed. One advantage to this approach is that you can benefit from a quicker recovery time than with immediate reconstruction.
It has been noted that women who go through less time without a breast seem to be less affected psychologically than those who wait longer to schedule breast reconstruction.
Common Breast Reconstruction Techniques
Just as there are choices about when to elect for reconstruction, we will work with you to decide upon the type of reconstruction to perform. There are multiple factors to be considered when choosing which approach to pursue. Dr. Mariotti will take all the time you need to help you fully understand your options before moving forward. There are three main categories for breast reconstruction surgery: implant reconstruction, latissimus flap (back flap) reconstruction, and TRAM (abdominal) flap reconstruction.
Book NowImplant-Based Reconstruction
Still the most common type of reconstruction, breast implant reconstruction recovery is the shortest. Implant-based reconstruction does require 2 separate surgeries, but the second procedure is relatively short.
First, Dr. Mariotti will place an expander under your skin and muscle and, over several weeks, will gradually inflate the device by adding saline through a valve in the implant.
Once the skin has expanded enough to match your other breast, the expander is removed, and Dr. Mariotti places a saline or silicone gel implant in the same way that a cosmetic breast augmentation is performed.
Latissimus Flap (Back Flap) Reconstruction
For flap-based breast reconstruction, Dr. Mariotti uses the skin and muscle from your back to reconstruct the breast. In order to match the original breast size, an implant may also be used for volume.
The advantage here is that this surgery is completed in one step, and you will wake up with a full-sized breast. The disadvantage is that this is a longer surgery and necessitates a 2- or 3-day hospital stay.
TRAM (Abdominal Flap) Reconstruction
During TRAM flap reconstruction, Dr. Mariotti uses the skin, fat, and muscle from your abdomen to reconstruct the breast. Advantages include the ability to avoid breast implants, and the reconstructed breast has a very similar feel to the original breast.
Additionally, a tummy tuck is performed in order to gather the tissue needed for the new breast. Disadvantages include 4 additional hours in surgery after mastectomy, plus a 4- to 5-day hospital stay. Recovery is between 4 and 6 weeks.
Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Once the breast mound has been reconstructed, the nipple can be created. To do this, Dr. Mariotti will harvest tissue during the reconstructive surgery. The areola, which is the pigmented circle around the nipple, can be colored to match your skin tone by matching and adding pigment via tattoo.
This completes the reconstructive process and provides a very natural look. Nipple reconstruction is generally done approximately 2 to 3 months after breast reconstruction and is an outpatient procedure.
“Dr. Mariotti and his team have been absolutely phenomenal from the first time I called to schedule a consultation to all of my follow up appointments after surgery. To say that I am pleased with the results is an understatement.”
- Jamie W.
What to Expect From Your Breast Reconstruction With Dr. Mariotti
Book NowPreparation
We begin with a detailed consultation where Dr. Mariotti reviews your medical history, surgical plan, and desired outcome. You may need imaging or lab work, depending on whether your reconstruction follows a mastectomy or comes later. We walk you through the different methods, such as implant-based or flap reconstruction, and explain how each approach affects recovery and results. Before surgery, follow all pre-op instructions closely, including any medication adjustments or fasting guidelines. We also talk about timing, especially if you are receiving chemotherapy or radiation, so your reconstruction fits safely into your treatment plan.
Procedure
Dr. Mariotti performs breast reconstruction in a hospital setting while you are under general anesthesia. He may use tissue expanders to slowly stretch the skin before placing implants, or he may reconstruct the breast using your own tissue. In some cases, we combine techniques to create the most natural shape and symmetry. Surgery length depends on the method used, but we keep you informed every step of the way. Our team monitors your comfort and safety throughout the procedure and during recovery.
Recovery
Each woman’s recovery experience after breast reconstruction surgery will vary depending on the technique used. Implant-based reconstruction has a relatively minimal recovery period, while TRAM flap reconstruction requires a longer hospital stay as well as a longer recovery period.
Some soreness is expected after surgery, including in the area where donor tissue was collected for flap-based reconstruction. Dr. Mariotti will give you specific recovery guidelines to follow, and over-the-counter pain medication can help control any discomfort as you heal.
Results
You will not see the final results of your reconstructive breast surgery right away, especially if your reconstruction involves tissue expanders or multiple stages. Swelling, bruising, and changes in sensation are common during the early healing period and can mask the full results. It can take several months for the breasts to settle into their final shape, and additional refinements like nipple reconstruction or fat grafting may follow. You may need time to adjust to the appearance and feel of your new breasts, which will not look exactly the same as your breasts did before your mastectomy. This is normal, and we will stay in close communication with you during your recovery so you know what to expect at each stage.
Is Breast Reconstruction Right for Me?
You may be a candidate for breast reconstruction if:
- You have undergone or are planning a mastectomy or lumpectomy
- You desire to restore breast shape for physical or emotional reasons
- You are in good general health and cleared for surgery
- You understand the possible risks, limitations, and need for multiple stages
Breast reconstruction is a personal choice that takes the cooperation between you and your doctors and surgeons. With communication and an understanding of your situation and goals, we can find the right options for you.
Book Your Personalized PlanFAQS
How soon can I get reconstruction surgery after my mastectomy?
The discussion of when to plan your breast reconstruction after your mastectomy depends on the recommendations of Dr. Mariotti and your oncologist, as well as your personal preference. Reconstruction can begin at the same time as your mastectomy, or several weeks (or even months) after your mastectomy.
Will insurance cover the cost of my breast reconstruction surgery?
The good news is that insurance companies are required by law to cover the cost of breast reconstruction at any time after a mastectomy. This includes surgery on your other breast for symmetry if needed. This may include a breast lift or breast reduction on the opposite breast, or in some cases, breast enlargement.
How much does breast reconstruction cost?
The cost of breast reconstruction can vary widely depending on what is required to achieve an improved appearance and which techniques are used. Thankfully, breast reconstruction following mastectomy or lumpectomy is, in most cases, covered by insurance, so instead of worrying about pricing, you can focus on choosing the best plastic surgeon for the procedure.
Can breast tissue grow back after a mastectomy?
In most cases, all of the breast tissue is removed during a mastectomy, so it is unlikely that the tissue will be able to regrow afterward. However, there are several breast reconstruction techniques that can restore the look and feel of natural breast tissue following a mastectomy.
How do I choose the best breast reconstruction plastic surgeon near me?
Breast reconstruction requires a specific skill set, acute attention to detail, intricate anatomical knowledge, and an artistic eye. For this reason, you will want to choose a plastic surgeon like Dr. Mariotti who has experience performing this procedure.
Look at before and after photos on his or her website, read client reviews, and ask for referrals from friends and family members near you to begin your search. To narrow your search, schedule a consultation or two with your top picks based on your preliminary research.
What is the best breast reconstruction technique for me?
There are a variety of breast reconstruction techniques, each with its own benefits. The best surgical technique for you will depend on your specific situation, needs, and goals.
Dr. Mariotti will discuss your breast reconstruction options in detail during your consultation and help you decide which could be the best method for you.
How painful is breast reconstruction?
You shouldn’t feel any pain or discomfort during your breast reconstruction surgery, as it is performed under general anesthesia. For the first few days after your procedure, you can expect to feel some tenderness, discomfort, or a tingling or numb sensation.
These side effects should gradually improve over the coming weeks and are usually easily managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Dr. Mariotti will provide you with detailed recovery guidelines to help make your breast reconstruction recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible.
How long does it take to recover from breast reconstruction surgery?
The length of your breast reconstruction recovery period will depend on the surgical technique used. Implant-based reconstruction, for example, typically requires a shorter recovery period than a TRAM flap reconstruction. Generally speaking, expect to be able to return to normal exercise and activities within 6 to 8 weeks after your procedure.
When will I see my breast reconstruction results?
While you should be able to notice immediate changes following your breast reconstruction surgery, it can take up to 3 months for bruising and swelling to diminish, giving you a sneak peek of what your final results will look like.
Over the next several months, you should continue to see improvements in the appearance of your new breasts, with final results developing around 6 months to a year after surgery, depending on the technique used.
Will I need multiple surgeries?
Many patients need more than one surgery as part of their breast reconstruction surgery plan, especially if the process involves tissue expansion or later-stage refinements. The first surgery focuses on creating the breast shape, and additional procedures may address symmetry, nipple reconstruction, or touch-ups. We space out these steps to give your body time to heal and to fine-tune your results. Every plan looks a little different, so we explain the timeline clearly before you move forward.
Can I have reconstruction if I have had radiation?
Yes, we can still perform breast reconstruction after radiation, but the approach often requires extra planning. Radiation can affect skin texture and healing, so we may recommend using your own tissue instead of implants. Some patients also benefit from staged reconstruction or fat grafting to improve skin quality. We evaluate your skin, scar tissue, and treatment history to help you choose a safe and effective option.
Will reconstructed breasts feel natural?
Reconstructed breasts may not feel exactly the same as your natural breast tissue, but you can adapt well with time and healing. The level of sensation depends on the method used and whether nerves can be preserved or regenerated. Softness, shape, and balance can feel very natural, especially when we use your own tissue. We talk through your goals and help you set realistic expectations based on the type of reconstruction you choose.
Can I choose not to have breast reconstruction?
Yes, some patients decide not to have reconstruction after a mastectomy, and that choice is completely valid. If you are unsure, you do not need to decide right away. Reconstruction can be delayed for months or even years. We are here to explain your options clearly so you can make the decision that feels right for you.
“It has only been day 2 post surgery and I’m In love with my results! I know I’m going to love everything even more as time goes by and I fully heal.
Dr. Mariotti and his staff are so amazing, kind, respectful and treat you like family. I’m so happy I waited to have Dr. Mariotti! Thank you!”
- Cyrina
Reclaim Your Figure With Breast Reconstruction at MBody
From your first visit, you will see why patients trust Dr. Mariotti for their breast reconstruction. He combines technical skill with an eye for natural balance and a calm, supportive presence that helps patients feel at ease throughout the process.
Contact MBody Plastic Surgery Center at (925) 685-4533 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Mariotti, or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to helping you restore comfort, confidence, and symmetry through breast reconstruction.
