At The Surgical Clinic, we recognize that every patient is unique, with different aesthetic goals, body proportions, and medical histories. Your initial meeting with a Surgical Clinic breast surgeon is a crucial step after diagnosis. If surgery is the recommended treatment path, rest assured that we use the latest technologies and approaches in state-of-the-art facilities. Our aim is to remove cancerous tumors while preserving the breast’s form and appearance as much as possible. In many cases, breast-conserving surgery is an option, allowing us to maintain symmetry and size.

Understanding the emotional challenges of breast cancer surgery, we offer comprehensive guidance on surgical and reconstructive options from the outset. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and address any anxieties you may have, so you can feel confident and empowered in your decision. Should you choose breast reconstruction, our collaboration with plastic surgeons at The Surgical Clinic ensures that your natural appearance can be restored using implants or your own tissue. Whether you’re seeking to enhance the size and shape of your breasts, improve symmetry, or reconstruct your breasts after mastectomy, we will work closely with you to develop a customized plan that achieves the results you desire.

By integrating these elements, we provide a holistic approach to breast cancer care that combines cutting-edge medical practices with compassionate support, ensuring you receive the best possible outcomes in your treatment journey in Nashville, TN.

It’s natural to wonder how your life will change after breast surgery. You may be concerned about how you’ll feel physically and emotionally, as well as whether you’ll be able to resume your normal activities.

The good news is that for most women, life after breast surgery is very similar to life before surgery. With the right treatment plan and support, you can continue to enjoy your favorite activities, work, and maintain your relationships.

Breast reconstruction enhances or restores the look, shape, and feel of the breasts after a mastectomy or breast cancer treatment surgery. Reconstructive surgery can happen the same day as a mastectomy or at a later date. Often, breast reconstruction helps women return to normalcy after breast cancer. Therefore, it can be an emotional and sensitive process that can feel overwhelming at times.

There are several types of breast reconstruction. Sometimes tissue is taken from your abdomen, back, or buttocks to create a breast;  sometimes, an implant filled with saline or silicone gel may be used. There are procedures that will combine your body tissue with implants. Your reconstructive surgery will depend on your body, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences.

Once the breast cancer is removed, patients may opt to have breast implants to replace the lost breast tissue. Breast implants restore shape and volume to the chest, and there are several options of implants to choose from. The surgeon will place the implant either over or under your chest muscle and cover it with your original breast skin or use a skin graft.

While breast implants are a fairly popular choice, the procedure can also be done with a tissue reconstruction, where the surgeon uses both implants and a flap to reconstruct the breast.

Tissue-based breast reconstruction is often referred to as a ‘flap’ reconstruction. This is when the surgeon uses tissue from another area of the patient to reconstruct the breast. The surgeon will take skin, fat, and muscle from your belly or buttocks, which resemble breast tissue, to reconstruct the breast. Combining tissue-based reconstruction and implants produces a more realistic result.

Recovery in the hospital typically lasts betweenlbetweenasts about 2 and -8 hours. Following breast reconstruction surgery, patients will require plenty of rest, limited movement, and bandages that help minimize movement of the breast area. Pain medication will be used as needed. A special surgical bra may be required for several weeks once the bandages are removed.

About one to two weeks after your surgery, your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to check in on your healing progress. They will evaluate your condition, inform you about the test results, such as negative margins, and outline a plan for your next steps in recovery. However, if you experience unexpected or extreme symptoms, contact your doctor to examine possible surgery complications.

• Medical History: Ensure your medical team has an up-to-date record of your medical history, including allergies, current medications, and prior surgeries.
• Insurance Details: Verify your insurance coverage and what it entails for the procedure. Make sure any authorizations have been obtained.

• Health Check: Complete all necessary medical tests as advised by your healthcare provider, which may include blood work or imaging studies.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Incorporate healthier habits such as stopping smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and maintaining a nutritious diet to enhance recovery.

• Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital, as you won’t be able to drive immediately after the procedure.
• Post-Op Care: Plan for your post-surgery care. This includes stocking up on necessary supplies, meals, and arranging for assistance during your recovery period if needed.

• Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises to keep anxiety at bay.
• Support System: Communicate with friends and family about your surgery so they can offer support and encouragement.