Breast Reconstruction - Artisan of Beauty Plastic Surgery

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Why Women Choose Breast Reconstruction

Restored Body Image

Reconstruction helps many women feel whole again after mastectomy. Looking in the mirror and seeing a feminine silhouette can be powerfully healing, both physically and emotionally.

Clothing Freedom

Without external prostheses, patients can wear the clothing and swimwear they love. Many women appreciate being able to dress without accommodating prosthetic breasts.

Multiple Technique Options

Modern reconstruction offers choices: implants, your own tissue, or a combination. Dr. Neavin tailors the approach to each patient's anatomy, health history, and personal preferences.

Long-Lasting Results

Whether using implants or your own tissue, reconstruction creates results designed to last. Many women enjoy their reconstruction for decades with minimal maintenance.

Expected Results

The goal of breast reconstruction is to create breasts that look natural and proportionate to your body. While reconstructed breasts won't be identical to natural breasts (sensation and tissue characteristics differ), most women are pleased with how their clothes fit and how they look in a mirror.

Natural Breast Shape

Dr. Neavin focuses on recreating natural breast contours, including the gentle slope from chest wall to nipple and appropriate projection for your frame.

Improved Symmetry

For unilateral mastectomy, matching the reconstructed breast to the remaining breast is a key focus. Procedures on the opposite breast can also help achieve optimal symmetry.

Permanent Results

Reconstruction creates lasting results. While implants may eventually need replacement, tissue-based reconstructions using your own body remain stable over time.

Real Patient Results

Browse our extensive gallery to see the natural, symmetrical results Dr. Neavin achieves.

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Patient Stories

5-Star Experiences

“

After my mastectomy, I didn't know if reconstruction was for me. Dr. Neavin took time to explain every option and never pushed me toward any decision. When I was ready, he delivered results beyond what I imagined possible. I finally feel whole again.

—

Reconstruction Techniques

Dr. Neavin offers the full spectrum of breast reconstruction techniques. The best approach depends on your body type, overall health, cancer treatment plan, and personal preferences.

Implant-Based Reconstruction

Implant reconstruction typically involves a staged approach. First, a tissue expander gradually stretches the skin and muscle over several months. Once adequate space is created, the expander is replaced with a permanent silicone or saline implant. This approach works well for women who prefer a shorter initial surgery and don’t mind multiple procedures. The recovery from each stage is relatively straightforward, though the overall process takes several months to complete.

DIEP Flap Reconstruction

The DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap uses skin and fat from your lower abdomen to create a new breast. This microsurgical technique preserves your abdominal muscles while harvesting tissue that closely mimics natural breast tissue. The result feels soft and warm, like a real breast. An added benefit: most patients also get a flatter abdomen, similar to a tummy tuck. DIEP flap reconstruction requires longer surgery and recovery but creates the most natural long-term results.

Latissimus Dorsi Flap

This technique transfers muscle, fat, and skin from your upper back to reconstruct the breast. It’s often combined with an implant for additional volume. The latissimus flap is particularly useful when patients don’t have enough abdominal tissue for DIEP reconstruction or when chest wall tissue has been damaged by radiation. Recovery involves both the chest and back donor site.

Nipple Reconstruction and Areola Tattooing

The final stage of reconstruction often involves recreating the nipple-areola complex. Dr. Neavin can surgically construct a new nipple using local tissue flaps, then work with skilled medical tattoo artists to create realistic areola coloring. Some patients opt for 3D areola tattooing alone, which creates a remarkably lifelike appearance without additional surgery. Nipple-sparing mastectomy, when oncologically safe, preserves your natural nipple from the start.

Patient Profile

Candidates

Ideal Candidates

Good candidates for breast reconstruction include women who have undergone mastectomy (or plan to) and want to restore breast shape. Ideal candidates are in good overall health, don’t smoke, and have realistic expectations about what reconstruction can achieve. The timing can be immediate (at the same time as mastectomy) or delayed (months or years later). Both approaches have advantages depending on your specific situation and treatment plan.

Not Ideal Candidates

Reconstruction may not be the right choice for women with serious health conditions that increase surgical risk, those who smoke and cannot quit, or patients facing additional cancer treatments that would compromise healing. Some women also simply prefer to go without reconstruction, and this is an equally valid choice. Dr. Neavin discusses all options openly so each patient can make the decision that’s right for her.

Estimated Investment

Varies by technique and insurance coverage

Thanks to the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act, most insurance plans are required to cover breast reconstruction after mastectomy. This includes surgery to achieve symmetry with the opposite breast and prosthetic devices. Our patient coordinators work directly with your insurance company to verify coverage and obtain necessary authorizations. Out-of-pocket costs vary depending on your specific plan, deductibles, and any elective components of your reconstruction. During your consultation, we'll provide a detailed breakdown of anticipated costs and work with you to understand your financial options.

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Timing Your Reconstruction

Immediate vs. Delayed Reconstruction

Immediate reconstruction happens during the same surgery as mastectomy. This approach means one less anesthesia and surgery, and patients wake up with breast shape already in place. It also typically preserves more of the breast skin envelope, which can improve final aesthetics.

Delayed reconstruction occurs months or years after mastectomy. Some women choose this route to focus on cancer treatment first, or because they needed time to decide about reconstruction. Others weren't initially offered reconstruction and decide later they want it.

Both approaches can achieve excellent results. The right choice depends on your cancer treatment timeline, personal preferences, and overall health. Dr. Neavin will help you determine the best timing for your situation.

Surgery Day Journey

Pre-Op Preparation

Arrive at the surgical facility as instructed, typically early morning. You'll change into a surgical gown and meet with your anesthesiologist. Dr. Neavin will mark your skin to guide incision placement and discuss the surgical plan one final time. An IV line is started for fluids and medications.

Surgery

You'll receive general anesthesia and remain comfortably asleep throughout. Surgery duration varies by technique. Implant reconstruction typically takes 2-3 hours; DIEP flap procedures may take 6-8 hours or longer. Dr. Neavin and his surgical team work meticulously to create the best possible result.

Recovery Room

As anesthesia wears off, you'll wake up in the recovery area. Nurses monitor your vital signs and pain levels closely. For flap reconstructions, the transplanted tissue is checked frequently to ensure good blood flow. You'll have surgical drains in place to prevent fluid buildup.

The Artisan Promise

Comprehensive
Aftercare Support

Dr. Neavin's practice provides comprehensive aftercare support throughout your reconstruction journey. Our team remains accessible for questions and concerns at every stage of healing.

Follow-Up Appointments

Frequent check-ins during early recovery allow Dr. Neavin to monitor healing, remove drains when appropriate, and address any concerns. Appointments become less frequent as healing progresses, transitioning to long-term monitoring.

Oncology Coordination

Our office communicates directly with your oncology team throughout reconstruction. This ensures seamless coordination between cancer treatment and reconstruction, whether you're undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or hormonal therapy.

Revision Planning

Many reconstruction patients benefit from minor revisions to optimize symmetry, contour, or nipple appearance once initial healing is complete. Dr. Neavin discusses revision options at appropriate intervals, ensuring final results meet your expectations.

Healing Timeline

Every patient heals differently, but this timeline offers a general guide for your return to daily life.

Week 1

The first week focuses on rest and managing surgical drains. Expect significant fatigue and limited mobility. This is normal. Pain medication keeps discomfort manageable. Most patients stay overnight in the hospital, especially after flap procedures. You'll need help at home for daily activities.

Weeks 2-3

Drains typically come out during this period. Swelling and bruising begin fading. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation, but avoid lifting anything over 5 pounds. Most women can handle light daily activities but still need rest.

Weeks 4-6

Many patients return to desk jobs around week 4-5. Driving can resume once you're off pain medication and can move comfortably. Gradual return to normal activities, though heavy lifting and strenuous exercise remain off-limits.

Months 2-3 and Beyond

Full activity, including exercise, typically resumes around 8-12 weeks. Swelling continues resolving for several months. Scars mature over 12-18 months, gradually fading from pink to white. Final results become apparent 6-12 months post-surgery.

Safety &
Potential Risks

Dr. Neavin believes in complete transparency about reconstruction risks. While serious complications are uncommon, understanding potential issues helps patients make informed decisions and recognize problems early if they occur.

Important Considerations

Infection at surgical sites
Bleeding or hematoma formation
Poor wound healing, especially in previously radiated tissue
Implant complications (capsular contracture, rupture, malposition)
Flap complications (partial or complete flap loss in tissue-based reconstruction)
Fat necrosis (hardened areas of fat tissue)
Asymmetry requiring revision surgery
Changes in sensation at the breast or donor site
Anesthesia-related risks

Radiation therapy, either before or after reconstruction, increases certain risks and may affect the timing and type of reconstruction recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after mastectomy can I have reconstruction?

Reconstruction can happen immediately during your mastectomy surgery or be delayed months or years. The best timing depends on your cancer treatment plan, particularly whether you'll need radiation. Dr. Neavin coordinates with your oncology team to determine the ideal approach for your specific situation.

Will my reconstructed breast feel natural?

Sensation varies by reconstruction type and individual healing. Tissue-based reconstructions (like DIEP flap) often develop some sensation over time because living tissue is used. Implant reconstructions feel different from natural breasts. Most women find that while sensation differs from their original breasts, results feel comfortable and natural in clothes.

How many surgeries will I need?

This depends on your reconstruction type and goals. Implant reconstruction typically requires at least two procedures: tissue expander placement followed by implant exchange. DIEP flap reconstruction is often completed in one major surgery. Most patients also have a minor procedure for nipple reconstruction. Revisions for symmetry or contour are common but not always necessary.

Does reconstruction interfere with detecting cancer recurrence?

No. Reconstruction doesn't affect your oncologist's ability to monitor for recurrence. Any new lumps or changes should still be reported to your medical team. Both implant and tissue reconstructions allow for appropriate surveillance through physical exams and imaging when indicated.

What if I had a mastectomy years ago?

Delayed reconstruction is absolutely possible, even many years after mastectomy. The techniques may differ slightly from immediate reconstruction because less breast skin is available, but excellent results can still be achieved. Many women who initially declined reconstruction later change their minds and are happy they pursued it.

Dr. Tim Neavin

The Artisan

Artistry Meets
Surgical Precision

Breast reconstruction after cancer treatment is one of the most meaningful procedures a plastic surgeon can perform. For Dr. Neavin, every reconstruction represents a partnership, working alongside oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiation oncologists to achieve the best possible outcome.

His approach combines microsurgical expertise with a deep understanding of breast aesthetics. Having trained extensively in both reconstructive and cosmetic breast surgery, Dr. Neavin doesn’t just rebuild breasts. He recreates natural shape, symmetry, and proportion that help women feel like themselves again.

“I’ve sat with many women facing breast cancer,” Dr. Neavin explains. “The decision about reconstruction is deeply personal. My job is to present all the options, answer every question, and support whatever choice feels right for each patient. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here.”

Diplomate American Board of
Plastic Surgery

Philosophy "Surgery with
Symmetry"

Beverly Hills & Santa Barbara

Start Your Transformation

Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Neavin today.

Breast Reconstruction Restoring confidence and wholeness after mastectomy