Increase Breast Size Through Reconstruction After Mastectomy?

Question

Is it possible to increase breast size with reconstruction following a mastectomy? Will it increase both breasts, even though only one will be removed? I will have enough tissue left after mastectomy and will be using expander and saline breast implants. My current size is full B/Small C; want to go to full D to DD.

James N. Romanelli, MD, FACS · Answer

In many cases, it is possible to increase your final breast size while undergoing mastectomy and reconstruction. Your surgeon needs to evaluate your skin characteristics to determine how much fullness can be achieved. However, it is possible to increase your breast size by one or two cups by adding an implant on the side opposite the mastectomy.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

If there is one nice thing about having to undergo breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, it is that you can really change your breasts if you want to.  some women have always wanted to be larger or smaller, have their breasts higher or lower, etc.  A surgeon should really work with you to figure out the best way to not only reconstruct the breast, but to alsoget it to the size you desire.  This also includes any surgery on the opposite breast for symmetry purposes ( yes, insurance will actually cover a breast augmentation on the other side for symmetry purposes).

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

You will be undergoing tissue expander reconstruction and will have to see how things go.  It is not always possible to go larger than you were before.  It all depends on the quality of the skin you have left behind and see how the expanders do.  If you do go larger, the insurance company generally do not cover implants to the other breast.  The will cover breast reduction and breast lift performed on the opposite breast for symmetry purposes, but not an implant. 
Another recommendation I would make is to look into the silicone implant for placement after your tissue expander.  Saline does not do well after mastectomy reconstructions.  You will have lots of rippling and feel is not the best either.  I generally recommend silicone implants after mastectomy for all those reasons.  After explained the risks and benefits of silicone implants most patient desire to have the silicone placed.
Good luck.

David Greenspun, MD, MSc · Answer

You shoud discuss your desire for breast size with your plastic surgeon as "going larger" can be an option. The shape and size of your chest, and the quality of your skin after mastectomy, will help determine just how large you can safely go. If you other breast is smaller, you will need to augment that beast. Just be aware that breast augmentation surgery can affect the appearance of mammograms.

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

The good news is yes - Often your plastic surgeon can strive to tailor your reconstruction to achieve your goals.  This is true for both implant based and autologous tissue only reconstruction.  Please talk with your board certified plastic surgeon to learn more about your options and what can reasonably be achieved.

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Increase Breast Size Through Reconstruction After Mastectomy?

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast size after mastectomy and reconstruction

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.