Is a Breast Reconstruction Painful?

After breast reconstruction at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, you might feel some discomfort—it’s all part of the healing process. Expect a bit of soreness and swelling, especially in the initial days. While it’s normal to feel tender, most patients find the pain manageable with the help of prescribed medication. The level of discomfort can vary based on the type of reconstruction and your individual pain threshold. Luckily, as the days go by, you’ll notice the pain easing up and start feeling more like yourself.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Breast reconstruction typically involves a series of appointments to ensure the best results. Initially, you’ll have a detailed consultation with Dr. Slocum to discuss your goals and plan the procedure. After the surgery, follow-up visits are crucial for monitoring your healing and addressing any concerns. You’ll likely need several appointments over the months following the procedure to track progress, manage any complications, and refine the results.

How Long Until I See Results?

Following breast reconstruction surgery, you can expect to see early changes within a few weeks as swelling decreases and your body starts the healing process. The full results, including the final shape and symmetry of the reconstructed breast, typically become evident over several months. Dr. Slocum will closely monitor your progress and provide detailed guidance throughout your recovery, ensuring that your reconstructed breast aligns with your expectations and enhances your confidence.

Can I Combine a Breast Reconstruction With Other Procedures?

Yes, combining breast reconstruction with other procedures is often possible and can be beneficial. Many patients at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, choose to pair reconstruction with aesthetic enhancements like breast augmentation or reduction to achieve the desired look. Some may also opt for complementary surgeries, such as tummy tucks or liposuction , to improve overall body contour.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction involves certain risks, including: Complications: Potential issues include internal bleeding, blood clots, infection, fluid buildup around the implant, and problems with the implant’s placement or function. Scarring: You might experience excessive scarring or an unnatural contour around the implant. Breast asymmetry: The reconstructed breasts may end up uneven in size or shape compared to each other. Breast pain: Post-surgery, some patients may encounter persistent or discomforting pain in the breast area. Implant issues: Risks include rupture, deflation, or extrusion of the breast implant. Anesthesia risks: There can be adverse effects or complications related to the anesthesia used during the procedure. Healing difficulties: Poor healing of surgical incisions could occur, potentially affecting recovery. Tissue necrosis: There’s a risk of tissue death in the reconstructed area, which can impact the flap, skin, or underlying fat. Reconstructive failure: There is always a risk that the reconstruction will fail, whether from infection or poor healing. In these extremely rare cases, there is usually a waiting period before Dr. Slocum attempts reconstruction again. He and his team will be with you throughout the entire process, no matter how long it may take! If you’re at all concerned about these risks, Dr. Slocum at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, will walk you through each one, providing clear explanations and personalized advice to ensure you’re well-prepared and confident before your breast reconstruction. His thorough approach will address any worries and help you feel comfortable every step of the way.

Portsmouth, NH

Breast Reconstruction

Introduction to Breast Reconstruction

Rediscover your confidence through breast reconstruction with Dr. Alexander Slocum at Seacoast Plastic Surgery, nestled in the scenic Seacoast region of New Hampshire. Dr. Slocum combines his extensive expertise with a compassionate approach to deliver personalized and precise care tailored to each patient’s unique needs and individual goals. From start to finish, experience a supportive journey toward beautifully restored and naturally shaped breasts.

A woman in black lingerie leaning against a soft curtain, with a natural smile on her face as she gazes out of the window - Breast Reconstruction in Portsmouth, NH

Achieve a Balanced, Refined Look

What is a
Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape and appearance of the breast after a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or other breast surgery. It can involve using implants or tissue from another part of the body to recreate the breast. Depending on the patient’s needs and treatment plan, the procedure can be performed immediately after mastectomy or at a later time. The goal is to help restore a natural look and boost confidence.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction offers several significant benefits. It restores the breast’s natural shape and symmetry after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, which can enhance your overall body contour. This procedure can also boost your self-esteem and body image, helping you feel more like yourself and more confident in your appearance. Additionally, breast reconstruction can improve the fit and comfort of clothing and swimwear, allowing you to enjoy a wider range of fashion choices. Emotionally, it provides a sense of closure and completeness, helping many individuals move forward after breast cancer treatment. With various techniques available, including implants and autologous tissue methods, the surgery can be tailored to your specific needs and goals for optimal results.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Breast Reconstruction?

The best candidates for breast reconstruction are typically individuals who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer. Ideal candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. It’s important for candidates to have completed any necessary cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, and to be free of active cancer before undergoing reconstruction.

Good candidates also include those who are psychologically prepared for the reconstruction process and are looking to restore their breast shape and symmetry. Personal factors, such as lifestyle and body type, will influence the choice of reconstruction techniques. A thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon will help determine the most suitable approach based on individual needs and goals.

Let’s Get Started

What’s The
First Step?

Begin with a thorough consultation with Dr. Slocum at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, to discuss your breast reconstruction options. This initial visit focuses on understanding your medical history, current health status, and specific goals for the reconstruction. Dr. Slocum will evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable techniques for achieving natural-looking results.

What to Expect on the Day of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Dr. Slocum will review your surgical plan, which may involve either implant placement, tissue flap reconstruction, or a combination of techniques, depending on your specific reconstructive needs. Once you’re comfortably anesthetized, Dr. Slocum will carefully perform the reconstruction. This involves creating a new breast shape using either your own tissue or implants and ensuring a natural appearance and symmetry. The procedure will be meticulously carried out to minimize any complications. After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room where your vital signs and initial healing will be observed.

Breast Reconstruction Recovery

Recovery from breast reconstruction with Dr. Slocum at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, is an exciting step toward your new beginning! After your surgery, you’ll start with some downtime to let your body heal. Expect a bit of swelling and bruising—it’s all part of the process. You’ll have some drains in place to help with fluid, but no worries, Dr. Slocum’s team will keep you comfortable and informed. Follow Dr. Slocum’s care instructions to ensure smooth healing, which means taking it easy for a bit and avoiding heavy lifting. You’ll have regular follow-up visits to check on your progress and answer any questions. With patience and Dr. Slocum’s expert guidance, you’ll be on your way to enjoying your new look in no time!

Fair & Transparent Pricing

How Much Does a Breast Reconstruction Cost in Dover or New Hampshire?

The cost of breast reconstruction in Portsmouth, Boston, or the New England area typically ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. Since breast reconstruction often follows a mastectomy, many insurance plans cover the majority of the costs associated with the procedure. The best way to determine the final cost of your procedure is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Slocum and allow his office staff to help you find this information.

SPS Expertise

Why Choose Us
for Breast Reconstruction?

From the charming landscape of New Hampshire, Dr. Alexander Slocum infuses Seacoast Plastic Surgery in Portsmouth with a dynamic blend of expertise and enthusiasm. With an impressive educational journey that includes degrees from MIT, a medical degree from Marshall University, and surgical training at Harvard Medical School and the Medical College of Wisconsin, Dr. Slocum is a meticulous, well-trained surgeon who is prepared to deliver outstanding results.

Dr. Slocum boasts top-tier credentials as a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). His involvement with elite organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Aesthetic Society (ASAPS) showcases his dedication to cutting-edge care and his passion for delivering excellence. With Dr. Slocum, you’re not just in capable hands—you’re embarking on a journey to extraordinary results with a true expert at the helm!

Breast Reconstruction FAQ’s

After breast reconstruction at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, you might feel some discomfort—it’s all part of the healing process. Expect a bit of soreness and swelling, especially in the initial days. While it’s normal to feel tender, most patients find the pain manageable with the help of prescribed medication. The level of discomfort can vary based on the type of reconstruction and your individual pain threshold. Luckily, as the days go by, you’ll notice the pain easing up and start feeling more like yourself.
Breast reconstruction typically involves a series of appointments to ensure the best results. Initially, you’ll have a detailed consultation with Dr. Slocum to discuss your goals and plan the procedure. After the surgery, follow-up visits are crucial for monitoring your healing and addressing any concerns. You’ll likely need several appointments over the months following the procedure to track progress, manage any complications, and refine the results.
Following breast reconstruction surgery, you can expect to see early changes within a few weeks as swelling decreases and your body starts the healing process. The full results, including the final shape and symmetry of the reconstructed breast, typically become evident over several months. Dr. Slocum will closely monitor your progress and provide detailed guidance throughout your recovery, ensuring that your reconstructed breast aligns with your expectations and enhances your confidence.
Yes, combining breast reconstruction with other procedures is often possible and can be beneficial. Many patients at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, choose to pair reconstruction with aesthetic enhancements like breast augmentation or reduction to achieve the desired look. Some may also opt for complementary surgeries, such as tummy tucks or liposuction, to improve overall body contour.
Breast reconstruction involves certain risks, including:
- Complications: Potential issues include internal bleeding, blood clots, infection, fluid buildup around the implant, and problems with the implant’s placement or function.
- Scarring: You might experience excessive scarring or an unnatural contour around the implant.
- Breast asymmetry: The reconstructed breasts may end up uneven in size or shape compared to each other.
- Breast pain: Post-surgery, some patients may encounter persistent or discomforting pain in the breast area.
- Implant issues: Risks include rupture, deflation, or extrusion of the breast implant.
- Anesthesia risks: There can be adverse effects or complications related to the anesthesia used during the procedure.
- Healing difficulties: Poor healing of surgical incisions could occur, potentially affecting recovery.
- Tissue necrosis: There’s a risk of tissue death in the reconstructed area, which can impact the flap, skin, or underlying fat.
- Reconstructive failure: There is always a risk that the reconstruction will fail, whether from infection or poor healing. In these extremely rare cases, there is usually a waiting period before Dr. Slocum attempts reconstruction again. He and his team will be with you throughout the entire process, no matter how long it may take!
If you’re at all concerned about these risks, Dr. Slocum at Seacoast Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics in Portsmouth, NH, will walk you through each one, providing clear explanations and personalized advice to ensure you’re well-prepared and confident before your breast reconstruction. His thorough approach will address any worries and help you feel comfortable every step of the way.

Schedule a consultation

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