Breast Reconstruction

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Breast Reconstruction in Charlotte

For some women, reconstructive breast surgery is needed. At Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery, our surgeons offer several different types of surgical procedures to restore breasts.

There are several conditions that may lead to the need for breast reconstruction. Whether the cause of the condition is the result of a mastectomy after breast cancer or prophylactic mastectomy, or congenital, such as Poland’s Syndrome, breast reconstruction surgery is a wonderful option for women to help restore the look and feel of a natural breast.

There is no one right reconstructive plan for women who need breast reconstruction. Dr. Kara Criswell and Dr. Bryan Criswell have each performed thousands of breast reconstructions for over 15 years and they understand this is a personal decision. Our doctors will offer guidance through the preoperative and postoperative process of this important surgery.

We offer individualized information about breast reconstruction to help you consider this very personal decision. We encourage you to call to make an appointment with either Dr. Kara Criswell or Dr. Bryan Criswell to further discuss which option is best for you.

Breast Reconstruction Surgery: Your Options

Breast reconstruction is most often performed in multiple stages. It can be performed as immediate reconstruction (in the same surgery as the mastectomy), or as delayed reconstruction, occurring months or even years after the mastectomy. Breast reconstruction typically involves several procedures over many months. We want our patients undergoing breast reconstruction to understand each different stage. Our surgeons are committed to focusing on patient care, and in producing the most positive outcome at every stage.

Breast Reconstruction with Implants

For many patients, breast reconstruction with implants is the most effective way to rebuild the breast tissue. The first stage often involves placing a tissue expander beneath your chest muscles. This expander is a balloon-like device. Over time, saline fluid is added to inflate the expander and stretch the skin. The expansion takes place over a few weeks to months, with regular office visits. Eventually, the skin and muscle are stretched sufficiently so that there is room for the placement of breast implants.

Stage two involves placing the implant. The balloon expander is removed, and your surgeon will then insert a breast implant.

The implant can be saline filled or silicone gel (‘gummy bear’ style). The choice of the type of implant is between you and your surgeon, but generally, gel implants can provide more natural look and feel.

Stage three involves the reconstruction of your nipple and areola. Skin from the central portion of the breast is used to recreate the nipple structure. This is generally performed as a separate surgery a few weeks after placement of the implant. Once your surgeon has surgically created the nipple and areola, many women go on to have the area tattooed so that the color match looks natural. Dr. Criswell uses a medical tattoo device to permanently color the areola. This is done in the office over one or two sessions.

Your Self-Image

In many cases, after a mastectomy, the loss of a breast (or breasts) is very emotional. Restoring your womanly curves can be very important to your feelings of confidence and self-image. We have worked with many, many women who need breast reconstruction, and we recognize the importance of this procedure to their overall feelings of confidence, and the ability to move forward after breast cancer. Natural-looking, soft, rounded breasts, including nipples that appear natural, are all possible with modern surgical techniques. We invite you to meet with us to find out more.

Breast Reconstruction Charlotte

How to Choose a Breast Reconstruction Surgeon

When a woman needs breast reconstruction, it can be an emotional issue, and finding the right surgeon could not be more important. At Criswell & Criswell, we are proud of the many referrals we get from cancer surgeons and specialists, and the trust they place in our knowledge, skills, and results. To choose a surgeon, it is advised that you meet personally with the surgeon, so you feel comfortable and confident. Take the time to review photographic images of prior breast reconstruction surgeries. Discuss all your questions and concerns. Breast reconstruction is a highly personal, important matter, and you want to be completely confident that your surgeon cares about you as an individual, and will do everything possible to produce the results that you envision. At Criswell & Criswell, we genuinely care about our patients, and are proud to be asked to help them move forward with breast reconstruction.

Community Resources for Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors

Charlotte has many wonderful resources for women with breast cancer. Carolinas Breast Friends is one of them. It is a non-profit organization committed to uniting and helping women with breast cancer in all stages of survival. The organization centers on those who want to create a social and educational outlet for women united in a sisterhood of survival and hope. We invite you to find out more about this important group.

Breast Cancer Awareness on Fox64

Charlotte Plastic Surgery

Ballantyne

14835 Ballantyne Village Way, Suite 210 Charlotte NC, 28277

704-930-0428 Directions

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Practice Policy Update Regarding COVID-19

Your health, safety, and wellbeing is our top priority.

Our office is open, and we are excited to be providing you with select services! Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery is leading the way in Charlotte and the South East region with our cutting edge technology, and continued safety measures We appreciate the trust you place in us and wish to assure you we are addressing the COVID-19 outbreak at the highest level to continue to ensure you enjoy an exceptional experience.

Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery is committed to taking proactive precautions, grounded in science, to provide the highest level of quality care to our patients. In addition to our already stringent policies, our office has implemented strict protocols and procedures based on the recommendations of The American Society of Plastic Surgery, the American College of Surgeons, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service Task Force, and the CDC. All staff members and surgical patients have tested negative for COVID-19 meaning our Quad A certified surgical suite is among the safest centers in the region.

We strive to consistently provide you with cutting edge technology for an exceptional patient experience. Our practice offers virtual consultations which you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Our virtual consultation process ensures you have ample time to have your questions answered and spend time getting to know your physician. You can also enjoy full access to your skincare specialist, nurses, and Patient Coordinators through virtual visits.

We know everyone is very busy and your time is valuable. Our in-person visits are designed with you in mind to keep your wait times short, and your in-room time effective and focused on your goals so we can get you back to your life.

We are privileged to serve you at Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery and are here to support you during these uncertain times.

Sincerely and with warm regards,

Bryan K. Criswell M.D., F.A.C.S.
Kara K. Criswell M.D., F.A.C.S.

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