Revision breast reconstruction

View Photos of Before and After

About the procedure

After a mastectomy and breast reconstruction, there are often asymmetries between the two breasts. Sometimes, these asymmetries are minor such as a slight volume difference. Once in a while, there may be more significant asymmetries, especially after radiation therapy. Scarring can be highly variable as well, and occasionally the mastectomy scar or scars from the breast reconstruction can be tight and uncomfortable. If you have any of these symptoms, or desire an improvement in the appearance of your breast reconstruction or mastectomy scar, you might be a candidate for revision breast reconstruction.

Revision breast reconstruction refers to a variety of techniques that can be used to improve the appearance of reconstructed breasts. Fat grafting, local tissue rearrangements, and implant exchanges are all techniques that Dr. Hirsch frequently uses to modify breast appearance. Whether your goal is improved symmetry, increased size, improved mastectomy scars, or anything else, Dr. Hirsch will individualize your treatment plan so that you have the best possible outcome.

The recovery period after revision breast reconstruction really depends on what type of procedures are performed. At the time of your consultation at his office in Sherman Oaks, Dr. Hirsch will discuss your treatment plan and anticipated recovery period so that you know what to expect after surgery.

Frequently asked questions:

Is revision breast reconstruction covered by insurance?

Most major insurance companies will cover your revision breast reconstruction. However, some companies do limit the number of revision procedures that they will cover. Dr. Hirsch and his staff will work with you to help determine insurance coverage of your revision breast reconstruction surgery.

I had breast reconstruction with a different plastic surgeon and would like to see Dr. Hirsch to discuss revision. Will he see me even though I didn’t do my original breast reconstruction with him?

Dr. Hirsch is happy to see any patient who is interested in revision breast reconstruction, regardless of who performed the initial surgery. It is helpful if you bring your original operative report to your consultation with Dr. Hirsch so that he can review the previous procedures that were performed.

I underwent a lumpectomy and radiation for breast cancer treatment and now my breast looks like it has a dent in it.  Can Dr. Hirsch improve the contour of my breast?

For small contour defects, Dr. Hirsch will often perform fat grafting, which involves taking fat from one part of your body and moving it to a different part of the body.  This procedure can be done under sedation rather than general anesthesia, and you will be able to go home the same day as surgery!  If you are interested in fat grafting, please bring this up with Dr. Hirsch at the time of your consultation.