Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Manchester
Breast reconstruction surgery is for women who have had, or are undergoing, breast cancer treatment, also known as mastectomy. While it’s also available for those with a birth defect or who have undergone separate trauma later in life. This surgery aims to replace breast tissue lost following a mastectomy using both autologous and non-autologous tissue or a combination of both.
Breast reconstruction combines all aspects of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic practices. Although it can be offered as an NHS treatment, every person who may have to undergo a mastectomy should have the opportunity to discuss breast reconstruction with Mr Ross.
Nights In Hospital
It’s recommend up to 2 days in the Alexandra Hospital, but this may differ depending on surgical combinations.
Recovery
Supportive garments are required to be worn for 8+ weeks. Recommendations by Mr Ross will be made after the check-up on when activity can resume.
Full Results
Recovery can take up to 8 weeks with full results up to a year later. This can vary depending on what procedures was included.
Gary Ross, MBChB, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Mr Ross has over 20 years of experience within the industry, with his career starting within The Christie Hospital and specialising in reconstruction procedures. Mr Ross is actively a member of the:
- The General Medical Council (GMC)
- The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)
- The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
- The Association of Breast Surgeons (ABS)
- The British Association of Head and Neck Oncologists (BAHNO)
- First plastic surgeon recongised by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCSENG).
- Certification from iWantGreatCare with over 700 reviews.
Mr Ross’ work has been so impactful it has led to several scientific contributions.
Breast Reconstruction Surgical Options
Autologous Reconstruction
Autologous reconstruction (also known as flap construction surgery) uses your own tissue, which has many advantages. As the tissue ages naturally, the effects of your breast reconstruction surgery will change minimally with time.
In the years following surgery, you may wish to continue attending breast cancer screenings as some of your own breast tissue remains.
Non-Autologous Reconstruction
Non-autologous breast reconstruction surgery uses implants to create the shape of the breast. The most important aspects of breast reconstruction surgery include size, shape and symmetry. There may be a requirement for a second operation is required to achieve the desired results.
This can also be combined with liposuction and autologous fat transfer, the new breast can be remodelled to give an even more natural result. In unilateral reconstruction, it may be necessary to perform surgery to the unaffected breast to give symmetry. This is often in the form of a mastopexy, breast reduction or mastopexy implant.
Following A Lumpectomy
Following a lumpectomy (a removal of tumour), there may be asymmetry between the breasts. Common treatments include the use of autologous fat transfer or reshaping of the breast in the form of a mastopexy. Where asymmetry is more marked, there may also be a need to combine these and perform surgery on the unaffected breast to aid symmetry in terms of volume.
Occasionally, autologous and non-autologous methods of breast reconstruction can be used to help reconstruct defects following a lumpectomy, as described above.
Surgical Timeline For Breast Reconstruction Following Mastectomy
The following is the average timeline to expect, but this may differ depending on which method is used, and if any accessory treatments are performed at the same time:
Once the breast reconstruction surgery is completed, you will stay under the attentive watch of the nurses at the Alexandra Hospital, where the procedure is performed. With a 24-hour round-the-clock care team. A flap procedure often means a longer recovery time due to the use of two surgical sites.
On average, the swelling should take around 8 weeks to go down. During this time, you should avoid any strenuous activities such as lifting, sports, or any other physical movements that put the surgical site at risk. Mr Ross will be able to best recommend what activity is permitted during this stage.
Final results can take anywhere from one to two years, depending on the type of reconstructive and combined surgeries that have been recommended by Mr Ross. During this time, the tissues should heal completely, and scarring will fade.
Breast Reconstruction Consultation
Here at Gary Ross we can offer both in person and online consultations which will both be a very open and honest conversation regarding Mr Ross’ professional recommendations based on your expectations.
All of the options will be explained alongside any risks, complications, and recovery, and any and all questions can be answered during and after the initial consultation.
Breast Reconstruction FAQ's
Most women who undergo breast mastectomy surgery are provided with the option of having breast reconstruction surgery as part of their treatment. If you have breast mastectomy surgery, then your surgeon will discuss the possibility of breast reconstruction surgery.
Following treatment for breast cancer, some women chose not to undergo breast reconstruction surgery for many different reasons. Some women simply don’t want to undergo additional surgery, or are happy with their post-mastectomy body. If you smoke, then your surgeon will discuss the benefits of giving up smoking before your breast reconstruction surgery, as you are more likely to develop problems following the surgery.
After a consultation with Gary Ross, we will provide you with a quote for breast reconstruction surgery. Quotes include hospital, surgeon and anaesthetic fees.
A lot of women choose to go private as a way to undergo prompt and personalised treatment for breast reconstruction surgery in a modern and comfortable hospital, and also so that they can hand pick their surgeon. Breast reconstruction surgeries are performed at the Alexandra Hospital with Gary Ross. As one of the most accredited private hospitals in the UK, patients leave the experience feeling well rested and prepared for recovery.
During your first consultation, we’ll have a careful and considerate conversation with you about the best treatment route for you and then you’ll have consultations with our oncological team.
