Breast · Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon · Mayo Clinic–Trained
Restore, rebuild,
reclaim
Breast reconstruction by Dr. Humberto Palladino. Careful hands, and a result that feels like you.
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Overview
A deeply personal decision
Choosing breast reconstruction is deeply personal, and it deserves surgeons with real experience behind them. Dr. Palladino understands the choices in front of you, and the weight each one carries.
These decisions can stir up a great deal of emotion. A skilled, compassionate surgeon makes them easier to carry. Dr. Palladino approaches every reconstruction case with the care and respect it deserves.
What breast reconstruction can offer
- A restored and natural breast appearance
- No need for an external breast prosthesis
- Enhanced self-confidence
- Improved quality of life
All surgery carries risks and every patient is different. Candidacy, realistic expectations, and your personalized plan are determined during your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Palladino.
Breast reconstruction options
Multiple paths to restoration
Breast reconstruction is usually a multi-stage outpatient procedure that takes place at our accredited surgical facility or at the hospital. The process can begin at the same time as a mastectomy procedure, or it can be delayed until you have healed from your mastectomy and recovered from any additional cancer treatments.
Breast Implants
This procedure typically involves inserting a breast implant into one or both breasts to achieve a balanced and proportionate breast profile. Breast implants, in combination with tissue reconstruction, can help improve the shape and volume of the breasts.
Flap Method & Tissue Expanders
If mastectomy or radiation treatment has not left enough tissue on the chest wall to cover and support a breast implant, Dr. Palladino may use either a flap technique (your own tissue) or tissue expanders to create room for breast implants.
Nipple & Areola Reconstruction
In addition to restoring shape and form to the breasts, Dr. Palladino can also reconstruct the nipple and areola utilizing various techniques and may recommend tattooing to add pigmentation.
Is breast reconstruction right for you?
Who is a candidate?
If you are considering breast reconstruction, you should be in generally good health and have realistic expectations about the procedure. It is important to consult with your oncologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon before scheduling your surgery.
Breast reconstruction may be beneficial if you:
- Wish to restore your sense of femininity
- Want to feel more confident in your appearance
- Desire a more symmetrical and natural breast aesthetic
Dr. Palladino will work closely with your oncologist and healthcare team to develop a plan that fits your overall treatment timeline and personal goals.
Your care with Dr. Palladino
Preparing for your surgery
You will discuss your breast reconstruction goals with Dr. Palladino during a personal consultation. He will walk you through the procedure and his approach, and the two of you will build a treatment plan that answers your concerns and fits the rest of your care.
Patients are advised to quit smoking at least six weeks before their scheduled breast reconstruction procedure. You must also avoid eating or drinking for at least eight hours before your surgery.
It is recommended to wear a loose-fitting shirt, preferably a button-up top, to your surgical appointment. After arriving at the facility, you will be led to the pre-operative suite so that Dr. Palladino can prepare you for surgery.
All breast reconstruction patients must make arrangements for someone to transport them to and from their appointment. Dr. Palladino will provide you with detailed preoperative instructions at your consultation so you feel fully prepared on the day of surgery.
Free Evaluation
What to expect
Your recovery timeline
Immediately after surgery
You can expect some drowsiness, discomfort, bruising, and swelling following your procedure. A trusted companion must be available to drive you home. Compression garments and pain medication prescribed by Dr. Palladino will help keep you comfortable.
First weeks
Following all recommended aftercare instructions can help minimize side effects and support healing. Most patients can resume driving once they no longer need to take narcotic pain medication. Strenuous activity should be avoided until cleared by Dr. Palladino.
Ongoing healing
The recovery timeline after breast reconstruction depends on the techniques used during the procedure. Dr. Palladino will monitor your progress through all postoperative visits and guide you through every stage of your healing.
Common questions
Breast reconstruction, answered
If you are considering breast reconstruction, you should be in generally good health and have realistic expectations about the procedure. It is important to consult with your oncologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon before scheduling your surgery. Breast reconstruction may be beneficial if you wish to restore your sense of femininity, want to feel more confident in your appearance, or desire a more symmetrical and natural breast aesthetic.
Breast reconstruction is usually a multi-stage outpatient procedure that takes place at an accredited surgical facility or at the hospital. The process can begin at the same time as a mastectomy procedure, or it can be delayed until you have healed from your mastectomy and recovered from any additional cancer treatments. Dr. Palladino will work with your oncologist to determine the best timing for your individual situation.
The recovery timeline after breast reconstruction surgery depends on the techniques used during the procedure. You can expect some drowsiness, discomfort, bruising, and swelling, but following all of the recommended aftercare instructions can help minimize these side effects. Wearing compression garments and taking pain medication prescribed by Dr. Palladino can make your recovery more comfortable. Most patients can resume driving once they no longer need to take narcotic pain medication.
Dr. Palladino performs breast reconstruction with great care and attention to detail, and there is still always a risk of scarring. The severity of the scarring depends on the desired extent of correction, individual healing capabilities, and whether it is performed during or after a mastectomy procedure. Most women who undergo breast reconstruction report that the emotional and physical benefits of this surgery are worth the chances of developing scars, especially because scarring tends to fade over time.
Because each breast reconstruction is personalized to meet the patient's unique aesthetic desires, the price will vary. Many health insurance companies provide full or partial coverage for the cost of this procedure, which can be determined at your consultation appointment.
Yes. In addition to restoring shape and form to the breasts, Dr. Palladino can also reconstruct the nipple and areola utilizing various techniques and may recommend tattooing to add pigmentation. This is typically performed as a later stage of reconstruction once the breast mound has healed. Dr. Palladino will discuss all available options at your consultation.
Related procedures
More breast procedures by Dr. Palladino
#believeinmagic
Begin your restoration.
It starts with a Free Evaluation. Dr. Palladino will listen, then build a plan alongside your oncology team.
Free Evaluation (866) 624-7874