1st Stage The goal of modern breast restoration after a mastectomy is higher than it has ever been. The progress that has been achieved in the technique applied in this field has brought astounding results, in terms of the breast’s function and aesthetics after a mastectomy.
During the mastectomy, the plastic surgeon removes skin along with tissue from the breast, making thus the breast tissues flat and firm. Then, in wishing to give a pocket shape to the breast, in order for the implants to be inserted, a dilator is placed under the remaining breast tissues.
The tissue dilator is a mechanism that resembles a balloon and is made of elastic silicone. The air inside the dilator is emptied, and then it is filled with sterilized serum, until the breast gains its normal volume.
Filling up the dilator can last for 4-6 months.
The operation can take 1-2 hours, and the patient can return to her daily routine activities after 2 or 3 weeks.
2nd Stage The second operation is performed after 4-6 months, when all the soft tissues have taken their position, and swelling has subsided. Then, the dilator is removed and an implant with a corresponding volume is put in its place.
In this stage, any potential asymmetries or deformities that exist in the breast are corrected, giving to both breasts the same volume and shape. The plastic surgeon also ensures the restoration of the nipple and the papilla, which is the last touch for complete breast restoration after a mastectomy.