Breast reconstruction is a procedure most commonly performed as a result of a mastectomy (breast removal) from breast cancer. In all cases, it is a procedure to help restore a more natural breast appearance.

Our Technique

This procedure is typically done in a hospital at the same time the general surgeon performs the mastectomy. The reconstruction portion can take between 3-5 hours and requires an overnight stay. There are many options for performing breast reconstruction and Dr. Hunsicker is well versed in performing a variety of techniques, including creating skin/muscle flaps using tissue taken from other parts of the body, such as the back, abdomen, or buttocks. A more commonly used technique is to use skin expansion methods and subsequent insertion of an implant at a later date. Dr. Hunsicker is also one of the first surgeons to develop and use a technique that allows for immediate implant placement at the time of mastectomy. There are a variety of factors including cancer stage, chemotherapy, radiation and prior surgery that can affect your options for reconstructive surgery. Dr. Hunsicker works with you, your general surgeon and oncologists to determine what options are best suited to your individual situation.

Our Before & After Photos

Patient One

This 26 year old woman is 5’4” and 200 lbs. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in her left breast in 2006. The patient decided to undergo bilateral mastectomies and wished to have reconstruction with immediate implants. Following the surgery, this patient desired a full C-cup breast, rather than the 38 D-cup she had prior to surgery. Her implants are 600 cc Mentor Smooth Round Silicone Gels. Even though she was still healing, at her 8 week post-op appointment she said, “I love my breasts better than my original ones! I am so happy!”

Before	Before	Before
After - 8 weeks	After - 8 weeks	After - 8 weeks

Patient Two

This is a 45 year old woman who is 5’5” and 183 lbs. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in her right side, seven years after being diagnosed with breast cancer in her left side. After her first diagnosis she underwent a mastectomy and reconstruction of her left breast using tissue expanders and a saline implant with another surgeon. With the second diagnosis she decided to undergo a right side mastectomy and breast reconstruction, as well as a revision of the prior reconstruction on her left breast. Her right breast was a C-cup and the left side showed some dimpling and rippling due to a capsular contracture. During her surgery the left side revised with an open capsulectomy and the right side reconstructed with immediate implantation. Her implants are 600 cc Mentor Smooth Round Silicone Gels. The patient is very happy to feel symmetrical again and is very happy with the results.

Before	Before	Before
After - 7 months	After - 7 months	After - 7 months
Before	Before
After - 7 months	After - 7 months

Patient Three

This is a 31 year old woman who is 5’4” and 218 lbs. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, it was recommended that she undergo a bilateral mastectomy. She elected to also have breast reconstruction with immediate implant placement. We used 700cc Mentor Smooth Round Silicone Gel implants. At a year out from surgery her scars are healing well and she is very pleased with her results and sent us a letter saying “never have I had a doctor so generous with time and information…. Thank you!”

Before	Before	Before
After - 1 year	After - 1 year	After - 1 year

As with any surgical procedure, complications from a breast reconstruction, although rare, do exist. The specific risks, as well as suitability, for any given individual cannot be determined until the time of consultation. While we hope this information is helpful, it can not substitute for a consultation. We invite you to contact us at 720-283-2500 or online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunsicker. Together, you can determine if you are a good candidate for breast reconstruction as well as specific risks and complications that may occur.

For more detailed information please visit The American Society of Plastic Surgeons® (ASPS) ®