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Breast Revision

Why Do I Prefer the TRAM Flap Over the DIEP Flap for Breast Reconstruction?

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Like any other plastic surgery procedure, breast reconstruction surgery is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. The procedure can be performed in many different ways depending on what the patient and their plastic surgeon agree is best. Even when breaking it down further into reconstruction procedures that use the patient’s own natural tissue instead of breast implants (autologous breast reconstruction), there are different methods to consider. Today, I wanted to take a moment to discuss my personal preferred flap option in these cases, breast reconstruction using the TRAM Flap.

TRAM flap vs DIEP flap reconstruction is a very common conversation during breast reconstruction consultation appointments. And while I understand why these two procedure methods that both use abdominal tissue to help rebuild the breast get conflated, there are important differences to consider. One reason I personally prefer to use the TRAM flap method is that unlike with the DIEP flap, it can be performed immediately as part of the mastectomy or other breast cancer surgery. This means that the patient will only need one procedure, and not have the need for multiple surgeries. The TRAM flap procedure also takes considerably less time, yet still produces incredible, often life-changing results.

In the video below, I go into more detail on the TRAM flap versus the DIEP flap method for breast reconstruction and why I often recommend it to my patients:

As with any other procedure, the best option for breast reconstruction is the one that helps my patient achieve the best possible result and feel the most satisfied about their new appearance. For more information or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation appointment, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can also follow along with me on Facebook for additional tips, videos, news, and more.

Why Would Someone Want a Breast Implant Removed?

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Choosing to undergo breast augmentation surgery is a very important decision that requires considerable time, thought, and deliberation. Patients should have their long-term interests in mind when making any decisions regarding this procedure. However, long-term does not mean forever and there are certain circumstances that may lead to a woman wanting to have her breast implants removed. Today I thought it would be instructive to discuss these specific situations and how I am able to help patients who have made this choice.

Having a breast implant removed is a very personal choice that can be made for several reasons. Some patients may prefer a different implant size than the one they chose at the time of their breast augmentation procedure. In some cases, an implant can slightly shift in the years since the procedure was performed, leading to a desire for a new, better-positioned replacement. Although this is very rare, some women may experience breast implant complications like capsular contracture that can impact how the breasts look and feel.

Regardless of the reason, once a woman has made the decision to take action regarding her breast implant(s), she will then have to decide whether she wants to undergo breast implant removal or breast revision surgery. During breast revision procedures, I remove the original implants and then insert new ones to satisfy the specific needs of the patient that I am treating.

In the video below, I go into detail on when it might make sense for women to have their breast implants removed, and the available options that they may choose from:

While it’s true that the satisfaction rate is extremely high following breast augmentation surgery, there are many things that can happen through the years that can lead a woman to pursue her options. I’m happy to provide multiple effective choices for patients who wish to have their breast implants removed and/or replaced. For more information or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation today, contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can follow along with me on Facebook for additional cosmetic surgery tips, news, and much more.

Questions To Ask at Your Breast Revision Consultation

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breast lift, breast augmentation, breast surgery, cosmetic procedures, plastic surgeonBreast revision surgery is unique among plastic surgery procedures. While it is a cosmetic procedure in nature, it almost straddles the line between cosmetic and reconstructive in a way. During breast revision, a patient’s breast implants are removed and replaced with new ones. Breast revision is performed to help women who are no longer satisfied with the results of a previous breast augmentation procedure. This dissatisfaction may result from a breast implant complication, natural wear over time, or a change in personal aesthetic preference. Regardless, breast revision surgery can be incredibly helpful in many cases.

A plastic surgery consultation appointment is always a significant step for patients, especially in the case of breast revision. During the consultation, I take time to thoroughly discuss each patient’s individual situation, as well as their procedure options and preferences. In some cases, breast implant removal may make more sense for their needs than a revision procedure, so I always like to present this option. While I know every patient will have their own questions and concerns, I have taken some time to provide some basic questions that should be asked at any breast revision consultation.

  • Are you board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
  • How many years of experience do you have performing breast revision procedures?
  • Will my new implants be inserted using the original incision area?
  • What kind of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  • How much time should I wait after my breast augmentation before considering breast revision?
  • How much visible scarring will I experience following my breast revision?
  • Will my procedure require an overnight hospital stay?
  • If I decide to have my breast implants removed, will I need a breast lift?
  • Are there any risks or complications associated with breast revision surgery?
  • Should I expect more or less downtime for recovery compared to my initial breast augmentation procedure?
  • What should I do to prepare in the days and weeks before my breast revision?

While many patients remain very happy with the breast augmentation results in the long term, I am very happy to provide breast revision for people who have not had this experience or those who simply want a change. For more information on breast revision or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation today, contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can follow along with me on Facebook for additional cosmetic surgery tips, news, and much more.