A breast cancer diagnosis is life-changing, and while the focus is often on treatment and recovery, the emotional and physical impact of breast loss or deformation can remain long after. For many women, breast reconstruction plays a key role in restoring not only the physical form but also a sense of wholeness and confidence.
At Iowa Breast Reduction in Coralville, IA, Dr. Kahlil Andrews offers compassionate, expert care in breast reconstruction surgery. Whether you’re planning reconstruction as part of your mastectomy or exploring your options after recovery, our goal is to guide you through this important decision with personalized care and advanced surgical techniques.
What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape and appearance of the breast following a mastectomy (breast removal) or lumpectomy (partial breast removal). The procedure can be done using implants, your body’s own tissue (known as flap reconstruction), or a combination of both.
There are several timing options for breast reconstruction:
- Immediate reconstruction, performed at the same time as a mastectomy
- Delayed reconstruction, performed weeks, months, or even years later
- Staged reconstruction, which involves multiple procedures over time
Learn more about the procedures offered on our Breast Reconstruction page.
Types of Breast Reconstruction Techniques
There are several surgical options for reconstructing the breast, and the right choice depends on your medical history, body type, cancer treatment plan, and personal goals.
Implant-Based Reconstruction
This is the most common type of reconstruction and involves placing a saline or silicone implant to restore breast volume. It can be done with or without a tissue expander, which gradually stretches the skin to accommodate the implant.
Flap Reconstruction (Autologous Tissue)
This approach uses tissue from another part of your body—often the abdomen, back, or thighs—to recreate the breast mound. Common flap procedures include the DIEP flap, TRAM flap, and latissimus dorsi flap.
Flap reconstructions tend to feel more natural and do not require implants, but they are more complex and involve longer recovery times.
Combination Techniques
In some cases, a hybrid approach using both implants and tissue flaps may be used to achieve the best cosmetic and structural results.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for breast reconstruction if:
- You’ve undergone or are planning to undergo a mastectomy or lumpectomy
- You are physically healthy and free of medical conditions that may impair healing
- You have realistic expectations about the outcomes
- You’re looking to restore your breast shape and symmetry
Dr. Kahlil Andrews will work closely with you to determine the best reconstruction method and timeline for your individual situation.
Why Consider Breast Reconstruction?
While breast reconstruction is a personal choice and not medically necessary, many women find it beneficial for their emotional and psychological well-being. Some of the most common reasons patients choose reconstruction include:
- Restoring body image and confidence
- Improving clothing fit and body symmetry
- Regaining a sense of femininity and normalcy
- Feeling more complete after cancer treatment
At Iowa Breast Reduction, we understand that this journey is deeply personal. That’s why Dr. Andrews offers a warm, supportive environment where every question is answered, and every concern is heard.
Why Choose Dr. Kahlil Andrews?
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience in breast surgery, Dr. Kahlil Andrews provides a comprehensive approach to breast reconstruction. He combines advanced surgical techniques with an artist’s eye to create results that are both functional and natural-looking.
Patients trust Dr. Andrews for his attention to detail, compassionate care, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. Whether you are seeking breast reconstruction after mastectomy or need a revision of previous work, Dr. Andrews is here to support you every step of the way.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
If you’re exploring your options for breast reconstruction in Coralville, IA, we invite you to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Kahlil Andrews at Iowa Breast Reduction. Our team is here to help you feel informed, empowered, and supported on your path to recovery.
Visit iowabreastreduction.com or learn more about our approach to reconstruction on our Breast Reconstruction page. Let us help you take this next step with confidence and care.
