Breast Reconstruction Following Double Mastectomy - Newark, DE

Forgot to say that I also had liposuction during the final implant surgery.

I was asked to provide more details to my review and am happy to do so. I was originally diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2011. I had a lumpectomy in April 2011 but needed to have a re-excision in May 2011 since pre-cancer cells were found on outer edge of the tissue removed during the lumpectomy. This was followed with Tamoxifen and 33 radiation treatments that caused the usual side effects, burnt skin, shrinking and hardening of the breast and much thinner skin on the breast. In May 2014, I was diagnosed with breast cancer a second time in the opposite breast. It was an immediate decision to schedule a double mastectomy with reconstruction since the Tamoxifen failed me from a recurrence. Double mastectomy surgery was in June 2014. Due to the radiation damage from the first diagnosis, it was necessary to have a latissimus flap (back muscle brought around to the front) to help with better blood flow and support the implant. Tissue expanders were placed at the same time. It was one long surgery (8 hours) for the breast tissue removal by the breast surgeon then Dr. Hoy took over to do the latissimus flap and place the expanders! Skin was also taken from my back during the surgery to add to the breast damaged by radiation. Once all the drains were removed (3 weeks post op for the last drain) then saline was added to the expanders over a few visits. Final implants were placed in November 2014. I chose the Natrelle implant (AKA "Gummy Bear" implants) because it is more naturally shaped than the big round implants we are used to seeing. I have two different size implants. The smaller one is on the side damaged by the radiation treatments because it is necessary to account for the muscle mass that was brought around to the front. These implants require you to be bound to hold the top of the implant down for a while. I also had months of specialty rehab therapy, provided by Occupational Therapists, to massage the entire chest and arm area to reduce swelling and massage the breasts to help the implants "drop" within the capsule that develops around the implant. At 6 months post final implant, I am very pleased with the results so far. I have a little more therapy to go to help the bigger implant to "drop" more within the capsule. I plan to have nipples added sometime after the 9 month post op mark .

Dr. Hoy has been absolutely wonderful since I met him in May 2014 for the initial consultation before my double mastectomy after a diagnosis of breast cancer for second time in three years. He takes his time to explain everything carefully every step of the way and answers every question you may have. He has the best bedside manner and truly cares if you are happy every step of the journey he takes with you. The care given throughout this entire process has been remarkable. I am heading into the final stretch of the entire process and couldn't be happier with my care and results. You won't be disappointed at all with Dr. Hoy!!