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Breast Reconstruction

For many women, breast reconstruction after a mastectomy is an important step on the road to normalcy and long-term well-being. Dr. Brian P. Tierney has earned a reputation for the remarkable results he achieves through breast reconstruction, both with flap procedures and breast implants. In Nashville, TN, he and his experienced, sensitive staff have helped countless women through the physical and emotional process of breast reconstruction. They look forward to answering your questions, exceeding your expectations, and helping you get back to feeling like yourself.

Request a consultation online with Dr. Tierney, a board-certified plastic surgeon and breast reconstruction specialist. Or call our office at (615) 320-8585 to schedule your appointment.

Dr. Tierney and his experienced, sensitive staff have helped countless women through the physical and emotional process of breast reconstruction.

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a highly individualized surgery that rebuilds the breast following mastectomy or lumpectomy. Today, several options exist for breast reconstruction, and Dr. Tierney works with you closely to help you choose the option that's right for you.

Breast reconstruction may be performed at the same time as mastectomy (called "immediate reconstruction") or at a later date (called "delayed reconstruction"). Like many decisions regarding breast reconstruction, the decision about when to undergo the procedure is largely a personal one. Dr. Tierney works with you and your oncologist to ensure that the procedure is effective without interfering with your cancer treatment.

The breast mound may be recreated with your own tissue, called a TRAM flap technique, or with an implant. These approaches may also be combined. During your consultation, Dr. Tierney explains each option thoroughly and recommends an approach that meets your individual needs.

Your Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction at Tierney Plastic Surgery is a highly individualized process. When reconstruction is performed with breast implants, it's often necessary to use temporary tissue expanders to make room for the implant. This process can take between 4 and 6 months. Just like breast augmentation patients, breast reconstruction patients may choose saline or silicone implants in a variety of sizes and shapes.

A TRAM flap procedure uses muscle and skin harvested from another part of the body, typically the abdomen, to rebuild the breast. This option is particularly well-suited for women who have lost a more significant amount of breast tissue. In either case, Dr. Tierney aims to match the reconstructed breast to the remaining healthy breast for beautiful, natural-looking symmetry.

Breast Reconstruction Recovery & Results

Your recuperation period depends largely on the type of procedure you undergo. Following surgery, your breasts are bandaged, and a surgical bra will be in place to support your reconstructed breast as it heals. Dr. Tierney prescribes pain medication to enhance your comfort. Most patients use this medicine for a few days following surgery.

Dr. Tierney offers you detailed instructions that reflect the specifics of your procedure. Most breast reconstruction patients are able to return to work in 1 to 2 weeks, being careful to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity until Dr. Tierney advises otherwise. Depending on the specifics of your surgery, your breast reconstruction results can last for many years or even indefinitely. For this reason, the surgery is one of the most rewarding for Dr. Tierney as well as his patients.