Breast Reconstruction in Fort Lauderdale

The decision to have breast reconstruction is extremely personal. Often times, the procedure is being considered as a result of life-changing circumstances. We are here to help you through the process and put your mind at ease.

Informed Guidance and Care

If you have any questions, we are happy to take the time to answer them, as well as go over procedures and expectations to calm any concerns. Your overall health and medical history will be taken into consideration, and we will also explain your options and advise you of complications and risks. Our goal is to give you as much information as we can about breast reconstruction in Fort Lauderdale with Dr. Learn or Dr. Dudas so that you can feel comfortable and confident.

Why Choose Us?

Dr. Lisa J. Learn is distinguished by her extensive experience, compassionate approach, and commitment to helping patients regain their sense of self after breast cancer or other medical conditions. With over 20 years’ experience, Dr. Learn provides personalized, holistic care, working closely with each patient to tailor their breast reconstruction journey to their unique needs and preferences. She is one of a few board-certified female plastic surgeons in Fort Lauderdale and also holds the distinction of being amongst a small group of members of the American Society of Plastic Surgery who are also Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine. Her dedication to patient well-being and her expertise makes our team an exceptional choice for breast reconstruction in Fort Lauderdale.

Reasons For Breast Reconstruction

Most often, breast reconstruction is done for women who have had to undergo a mastectomy. However, it is performed for other reasons as well, such as congenital abnormalities, deformities, and damage as the result of injury or accident.

Rebuilding Body Image

The goal of breast reconstruction is to rebuild your breast with the most natural appearance to give you a renewed sense of self-esteem and positive body image. There are two common procedures involved in breast reconstruction:

Implant-Based: With the implant technique, saline or silicone gel implants are used to recreate the breast.
Autologous Tissue-Based: This method involves using donor fat and tissue taken from other parts of your body, like your abdomen or back, to rebuild the breast area.

Restoring Balance

Sometimes only one breast is affected, but that’s okay. We will reconstruct it to be similar in size and position to the opposite breast. We can even perform a lift, reduction, or augmentation to improve symmetry even more.

Let’s Talk About You

Breast Reconstruction For Additional Conditions

Breast reconstruction encompasses various procedures tailored to address specific concerns and conditions in addition to mastectomies. Some common situations we help patients with include:

Breast Asymmetry Correction

This procedure aims to balance the size, shape, and position of uneven breasts, often involving breast augmentation or reduction on one or both sides, as well as adjustments to the areola size and placement. Dr. Lisa J. Learn may employ various surgical techniques, including breast implants, fat transfer, or breast lift, to achieve symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing results.

Tubular Breast Deformity

Tubular breasts have a unique appearance characterized by narrow, elongated shape and a constricted base. Correcting tubular breast deformity typically involves breast augmentation to increase volume and reshape the breasts, often accompanied by adjustments to the breast tissue and nipple-areola complex. Dr. Learn utilizes her expertise in breast surgery to create natural and proportionate outcomes.

Symmastia Repair

Symmastia occurs when breast implants or natural breast tissue merge, creating a "uni-boob" appearance. Repairing symmastia involves careful repositioning of the breast implants or tissue to restore the natural separation between the breasts. Dr. Learn employs precise techniques to address this condition, ensuring that the breasts maintain their individual contour and symmetry.

What To Expect During Recovery

The procedure is done under general anesthesia, so you should arrange for someone to drive you home on the day of the surgery and possibly stay with you for at least the first night. Your dressings will be covered with an elastic bandage to minimize swelling and you will be given instructions for medication and care. Strictly adhering to these directions is essential for the success of your surgery. Recovery can take several weeks or more depending on the nature and extent of your specific surgery. For long-term health, it is important to perform self-breast exams as well as schedule regular mammograms.

Things To Know To Expect With Breast Reconstruction

A reconstructed breast will not have the same feel or sensation as your natural breast did, and will likely have visible scars from the mastectomy.

However, in your clothing, your breasts will appear completely normal in size and shape. In addition, some sensation may return over time, and scars will fade, although not completely disappear.

Dr. Learn And Her Team Are Here For You In This Deeply Emotional Time

Breast reconstruction can take place at the same time as a mastectomy or you can wait until you are healed and have recovered from other cancer treatments—it’s up to you. We want you to feel ready, both physically and emotionally, for the process. Even after the procedure, it may take some time to adjust. For women who have lost a breast to cancer or some other condition, reconstructive surgery can be an emotional journey. We will be here for you every step of the way and beyond.

Consult With Us About Restoring Your Natural Beauty And Confidence

For more information on restoring your breasts to their natural size, shape, appearance, schedule a consultation with Dr. Learn or Dr. Dudas today. To make an appointment, schedule online, call us at (954) 380-8411, or visit us in Fort Lauderdale, FL.