Nipple-Sparing Direct-to-Implant Left Breast Reconstruction in The Woodlands, TX

A direct-to-implant reconstruction means that a permanent breast implant or prosthesis is placed at the time of the mastectomy.  This certainly sounds attractive as it implies a one-stage reconstruction.  However, this does not always mean that one surgery will deliver a good symmetric outcome and patient satisfaction.  A revision procedure is often warranted to refine the reconstructed breast shape and optimize breast symmetry.  Many times this is simple, perhaps only requiring fat grafting and scar revision.  In some cases, a staged surgery will need to address the opposite breast with a breast lift, reduction, or augmentation. 

When Dr. Albright meets with a new patient referred for breast reconstruction, he provides guidance as to whether he thinks a direct-to-implant reconstruction is appropriate in her individual case.  The best candidates tend to be women having a nipple-sparing mastectomy with small to medium-sized breasts, minimal nipple ptosis (drooping), good skin quality, and desiring to be reconstructed with the same or slightly smaller breast size.  The ability to perform a direct-to-implant reconstruction will always hinge on intraoperative findings of blood flow to the breast mastectomy skin flaps.  Tissue expanders are usually ordered and reserved as a backup option if the skin flap perfusion is found to be less than ideal.