Breast Reconstruction in Manhattan: Making the Decision

by Dr. Steven Wallach

For women who have undergone surgical removal of their breasts as treatment for breast cancer, they might never feel complete or whole again. The procedure, also known as mastectomy, could either be classified as partial or complete removal of one or both breasts. However, the option to proceed to breast reconstruction, after mastectomy, has dramatically changed the lives of women all over the world who wished to live the same life they had before they were diagnosed with cancer. For these women, highly skilled surgeons such as Dr. Steven Wallach is their flicker of hope. Dr. Wallach is the surgeon-to-go-with, because of his knowledge and skill in performing a Manhattan breast reconstruction.

Surgical Goal

The ultimate goal of breast reconstruction is to restore the size and shape of your breast as well as to rebuild the appearance of a breast mound.

Making the Decision

While a Manhattan breast reconstruction will be performed by Dr. Wallach, following a mastectomy it is highly recommended that you make the decision to undergo reconstructive surgery before your scheduled mastectomy. This will allow your surgical team (both mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgeries) to come up with the best treatment plan possible.

Deciding Factors

There are several factors to consider when deciding about breast reconstruction. They include, but are not limited to, the following:

• overall health condition
• extent and stage of breast cancer
• amount of tissue available (this is applicable for breast reconstruction technique which require the use of skin tissue from the patient herself)
• expectations of the patient
• insurance coverage and other related costs

Timing of Surgery

A breast reconstruction surgery could either be done immediately after mastectomy or at a later time. Immediate breast reconstruction has the advantage of having less surgery to be done as the tissues are not yet damaged by either scarring or radiation therapy. However, additional procedures may need to be done with immediate breast reconstruction. Delayed breast reconstruction is the ideal alternative for women who have to undergo radiation therapy following mastectomy. For more information on breast reconstruction in Manhattan and the different techniques available to suit your needs and preferences, get in touch with Dr. Wallach by filling out this contact form.