Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction Surgeon in San Francisco

Dr. Kenneth Bermudez, MD has spent a significant portion of his career studying and training in the latest breast reconstruction techniques. San Francisco-area patients who have undergone a radical mastectomy of one or both breasts can have their breasts reconstructed and their self-confidence renewed with a number of state-of-the-art breast reconstruction procedures.

• Breast Reconstruction

• Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures

• TRAM Flap Reconstruction

• Latissimus Flap Reconstruction

• Implant Reconstruction

• Breast Reconstruction Recovery

• Risks

• Benefits

Breast Reconstruction

For women who have undergone a mastectomy or who have breast deformities caused by genetics or injury, breast reconstruction surgery can provide new breasts that look and feel natural. Dr. Kenneth Bermudez, MD can start rebuilding the bustline immediately after mastectomy or, in some cases, at the same time as the mastectomy procedure. Dr. Bermudez understands the physical and emotional trauma that a mastectomy can cause, and he works with his San Francisco breast reconstruction patients diligently to reconstruct their breasts and rebuild their self-esteem.

Contact our breast reconstruction surgeon serving San Francisco and surrounding areas for a consultation.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures

As a leading San Francisco plastic surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Bermudez, MD is skilled at a number of breast reconstruction procedures. He will go over each technique with you at your initial consultation, and together you and he will decide which option is the best for you.

TRAM Flap Reconstruction

In TRAM flap breast reconstruction surgery, skin, fat, and muscle from the lower abdomen are transferred to the breast site. The abdominal muscles are tightened, using a technique similar to that of a tummy tuck, and tissue from the abdominal area is used to form the breast mound. Dr. Bermudez can also reconstruct the nipples. There will be a horizontal scar along the abdomen, but it should fade with time and will be easy to conceal under clothing

Latissimus Flap Reconstruction

During a latissimus flap reconstruction procedure, Dr. Bermudez creates a flap of skin along the outer back. The latissimus dorsi muscle, fat, and skin are rotated forward to form the breast mound. A breast implant is then placed under the flap, and the back and breast areas are stitched closed.

Implant Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction with implants involves placing a tissue expander just below the chest muscles. The expander is periodically injected with saline, causing the overlying skin to stretch and expand and creating a pocket in which a breast implant is placed. This type of breast reconstruction takes place over a period of weeks in order to expand the skin to the point that it can accommodate the implant.

​​​​​​​It should be noted than all of these breast reconstruction procedures involve major surgery, and several days of hospitalization will be required.

Fat Transfer Breast Reconstruction

Another option for patients who do not wish to undergo breast reconstruction with implants is fat transfer breast reconstruction. During this procedure, Dr. Bermudez uses fat from other areas of the body and places it in the breast area to create a new, more natural-looking breast. Read more about fat transfer.

Breast Reconstruction Recovery

Recovery from breast reconstruction surgery largely depends on the technique used to perform the procedure. While the breast area heals, patients can expect some pain and discomfort, which can be alleviated with medication. Patients should allow themselves at least two full weeks of rest and recovery after surgery. Normal daily activities can typically be resumed within four to six weeks. Keep in mind that there will be scarring from breast reconstruction surgery. Dr. Kenneth Bermudez, MD will work to make any residual scarring as minimal as possible, and it should fade somewhat with time. However, scars from a breast reconstruction procedure will not disappear completely. Contact our practice for more information.

Risks

There are always risks with any type of surgery. However, steps can be taken to minimize those risks. Some possible complications that can arise from breast reconstruction surgery include:

• Infection

• Reaction to anesthesia

• Uneven skin pigmentation

• Necrosis (tissue death)

• Breast implant rupture
  
  

Dr. Kenneth Bermudez, MD will discuss with you all potential risks associated with specific breast reconstruction techniques at your initial consultation.

Benefits

Patients who have had a mastectomy often go through periods of severe depression afterward. Breast reconstruction surgery can significantly help women who have been traumatized by a mastectomy or breast deformity.

Three important benefits of breast reconstruction are:

• Aesthetic improvement of physical trauma from mastectomy

• Natural-looking and natural-feeling breasts

• Improved sense of wholeness and well-being
  
  

Dr. Kenneth Bermudez, MD has an impressive record of successful results using plastic surgery to rebuild the breasts, and he looks forward to speaking with you about your goals.

Contact Our Breast Reconstruction Surgeon

Breast reconstruction surgery can provide a natural-looking bustline after a mastectomy. To learn more about your breast reconstruction options, please contact Kenneth Bermudez, MD. He can help you through the often difficult time following a mastectomy, and he can provide you with options to renew your body and your self-confidence. In addition to breast reconstruction, Dr. Bermudez specializes in a range of cosmetic breast procedures, such as breast lift, breast reduction, gynecomastia treatment and breast augmentation with breast implants in San Francisco.