For women who face breast cancer, breast reconstruction is often a vital part of their treatment — both physically and emotionally.
Dr. Stephen Kahler works with Tanner Cancer Care’s team of breast surgeons, oncologists, hematologists and radiation oncologists to restore a woman’s confidence after one or both breasts are removed or a lumpectomy has been performed to treat breast cancer.
Using the latest reconstructive surgery techniques and the latest implants, Dr. Kahler reconstructs a woman’s breasts to look and feel like her natural breasts.
What is the timing of breast reconstruction?
Depending on your surgery and treatment plan, breast reconstruction can be performed immediately after breast removal or several months later. Some women prefer or are recommended to wait and have reconstruction later.
Talk with your cancer team to determine what’s right for you.
Watch as Dr. Kahler discusses his approach to breast reconstructive care.
How is breast reconstruction done?
There are two main methods for breast reconstruction following mastectomy.
For the implant-based method, Dr. Kahler most often uses a technique called tissue expansion. He inserts a tissue expansion device beneath your chest tissue at the time of surgery. The tissue expander is gradually filled with saline in a step-wise fashion after healing is complete. This expansion device creates the space for the final implant that will become the breast mound.
Depending on your situation, Dr. Kahler also may use a flap technique that uses your own tissue to reconstruct your breasts. Known as autologous reconstruction, these techniques use your own tissue from another part of the body to form a new breast.
Cost of breast reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is a covered benefit under any insurance plan that includes breast cancer treatment. We’re happy to help you learn more about your insurance benefits.
Breast reconstruction Before & After Gallery
Please note that each patient's body and results are unique.
Age Warning
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