Secondary Reconstructive Procedures

Fat grafting is commonly used in the second stage of surgery to refine the contour of the breast for both autogenous and implant-based reconstruction. Using the meticulous technique, the fat is harvested through liposuction from the distant area and injected in a small amount in the restored breast, both to improve the contour and increase the volume. Fat grafting can also be used to correct lumpectomy defects.

In order to improve the return of sensation to the restored breast, nerve grafts are often used in patients undergoing autogenous reconstruction. Nerves that are part of the transferred tissue are identified and dissected and re-attached to nerves in the chest. Nerve grafts are used to bridge the gap that is often present.

Patients undergoing non-nipple sparring mastectomy will undergo nipple-areolar reconstruction. This is the last step as its position on the restored breast is critical. 3-D tattoo techniques can be used to render a very natural appearance. A combination of surgical techniques to restore the nipple along with a medical tattoo to provide the pigmentation of the nipple and areola produce the most natural results.