Breast Reconstruction: Silicone Implant - Bilateral

The goal of breast reconstruction is to restore one or both breasts to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry and size following mastectomy, lumpectomy or congenital deformities.

Breast reconstruction often involves multiple procedures performed in stages and can either begin at the time of mastectomy or be delayed until a later date.

Breast reconstruction generally falls into two categories: implant-based reconstruction or flap reconstruction. Implant reconstruction relies on breast implants to help form a new breast mound. Flap (or autologous) reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue from another part of the body to form a new breast. Learn More about this procedure HERE.

Procedure Time

1 hour

Time to Final Results

3 - 6 months

Recovery Time

1 - 2 weeks

  • Take certain medications or adjust your current medications

    Stop smoking

    Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding

  • Be sure to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery, and to stay with you the first night following surgery.

    · Minimal activities for the first 4 days after surgery.

    · Remember to position yourself as you have been instructed.

    · Leave the ace wrap in place as it helps with the swelling.

    · Do not raise your arms above your shoulders.

    · NO heavy lifting, pushing or pulling for a minimum of 1 week.

    · After the first week, full range of motion with your arm is permissible but lifting is restricted to 5 pounds or less.

    · Sutures are typically dissolvable and will not need to be removed.

    · Return to non-strenuous work within 3-7 days.

    · Moderate discomfort, which should be relieved by pain medications.

    Also, placing well-Padded ice bags high on the chest often relieves discomfort. You need to have your surgeon’s permission prior to using ice. This can be contraindicated in some cases.

    · Moderate swelling of the breasts and abdomen.

    · Bruising of the breasts and abdomen.

    · There may be some bloody drainage on the dressings.

    · You may shower/sponge bath 48 hours. after surgery with assistance.

    · You will follow up with one of our nurses 1-3 days after surgery. You will follow up with Dr. Stacey if any concerns arise during this time, otherwise you will follow up with him at your 2 week post-op appointment.

    · You will follow up with one of our nurses 1 week after surgery and again 2-3 weeks after surgery. You will continue to see a nurse for tissue expander fill visits every 2-3 weeks (if tissue expander present). You will follow up with Dr. Stacey if any concerns arise during this time otherwise you will see a nurse until you’re ready for a second stage surgery (if tissue expander present).

    Call the office if you experience:

    · Severe pain not responding to pain medications.

    · Excess swelling or swelling that is greater on one side than the other.

    · A bright red spot on the bandage which continues to enlarge.

    · Incisions that appear to be opening or becoming very red, hot to the touch or containing pus.

    · A fever.

    · You notice any signs of increasing firmness of one or both breasts.

    · Call the office if you have any questions.