Breast Reconstruction in Reston, Virginia

Procedures that affect the breast such as lumpectomies, mastectomies, or congenital deformities can greatly impact a woman’s appearance and self-confidence. For this reason, many women choose to have some sort of breast reconstruction performed by Dr. Wendy Gottlieb in order to enhance the shape and appearance of their breasts.

Patients will need to make many decisions regarding their breast reconstruction since every individual’s breasts and prior breast surgeries are different.

Dr. Gottlieb’s Breast Reconstruction Surgical Results

Timing of a Breast Reconstruction

Depending upon the nature of the prior procedure and whether or not both breasts have been affected, the patient may wish to immediately undergo a breast reconstruction or wait until their initial surgical site has healed before attempting another surgery.

For those that opt for an immediate reconstruction, this procedure will occur directly after the mastectomy or lumpectomy. Most surgeons will recommend this option as it requires the patient to undergo surgery only once rather than having to deal with the potential risks and recovery process multiple times.

An immediate breast reconstruction is also advised for patients who intend to participate in radiation therapy. This is due to the skin’s elasticity and its enhanced ability to heal itself and the appearance of scar tissue once radiation therapy is complete.

Types of Breast Implants

There are two primary categories for patients to consider when selecting the best breast implant option for themselves: saline and silicone. Dr. Gottlieb will be able to answer any questions you may have about these implant types, and she can also provide her own professional recommendation as to which kind of breast implant she feels will work best for you and your individual case.

Silicone Gel Breast Implants

Silicone implants are made of a polymer that presents no known allergy to humans. With a consistency like that of a gummy candy, the silicone implants create a more natural look than saline implants as they are able to more easily replicate real breast tissue with their gelatinous consistency.

Saline Fluid Breast Implants

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, which can sometimes give the appearance of a rippling or wrinkling breast. An advantage to a saline implant is that some types can be easily adjusted for size. This allows patients the option to increase or decrease their saline breast implants as they see fit.