Welcome to our blog, which is dedicated to helping you find the best breast reconstruction surgeons in Nashville, TN.
We know how difficult it can be to make an informed decision about your plastic surgery options when you’re dealing with cancer or other health issues. Our goal is to provide a resource where you can learn more about the different procedures available and what they entail, so that you can make the most informed decision possible. We also want to help you understand how to find the right surgeon for your needs. In this article we will consider top 10 plastic surgeons in nashville tn and breast surgeons nashville tn
For example, if you’re looking for a breast reconstruction surgeon in Nashville, TN, we’ll help you understand what kind of experience they have performing these types of procedures and what type of training they have received. We’ll also help you figure out whether they have any recommendations from other patients who have had similar procedures done at their practice before.
BREAST RECONSTRUCTION IN NASHVILLE, TN
Dr. Robbins offers sophisticated breast reconstruction procedures and techniques to patients following mastectomy. Breast reconstruction refers to the cosmetic procedures done following a mastectomy to restore or enhance the shape, size, and appearance, of the breasts. Dr. Robbins carefully consults with each patient regarding their desire for breast reconstruction.
Some women choose to have their breasts returning as close to their previous size and shape, while someone women prefer to try something new with the reconstruction. Dr. Robbins offers many techniques to reconstruct the breasts post-mastectomy to meet the needs of all patients. These may include:
- Flap techniques that reposition a woman’s own muscle, fat, and skin to create or cover the breast mound (A “flap” refers to the portion of tissue used).
- Tissue expansion that stretches healthy skin to provide coverage for a breast implant.
- Surgical placement of a breast implant to create a breast mound.
- Grafting and other specialized techniques to create a nipple and areola.
- Skin-sparing mastectomy.
- Nipple-sparing mastectomy.
Dr. Robbins recommends that women undergoing mastectomy typically have the breast reconstruction procedure done the same day. This allows Dr. Robbins to take advantage of the skin’s elasticity and minimizes the patient’s discomfort following two procedure days versus just one. However, some patients choose to wait a while after the mastectomy due to cancer treatment or simply needing a break, and Dr. Robbins will ensure those patients achieve desired results, as well.
Dr. Robbins will work to understand each patient’s desired outcomes for breast reconstruction and provide guidance on making the entire process as easy on the patient as possible. Dr. Robbins has much experience in this field and is proud to provide his most courageous patients with the experience and care necessary to make breast reconstruction a positive and rewarding experience.
Who is a Strong Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Breast removal, or mastectomy, is a common procedure undergone by individuals who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or other conditions that require the removal of the breast tissue. Following a mastectomy, many women may feel a sense of loss or unfeminine due to the physical changes to their bodies. This is where breast reconstruction can play a vital role in rebuilding confidence and helping patients feel more comfortable in their own skin.
Dr. Robbins, a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, understands the emotional and physical toll that mastectomy can take on a patient. That is why he offers breast reconstruction as a way to help patients feel whole again after their mastectomy. During the consultation process, Dr. Robbins will carefully assess each patient’s individual needs and goals to determine if breast reconstruction is the right option for them at that time. He will also work closely with any relevant medical providers to ensure the procedure is safe and beneficial for the patient.
Breast reconstruction can be performed using a variety of techniques, including implants or using the patient’s own tissue to create a new breast mound. Each technique has its own advantages and considerations, which Dr. Robbins will discuss with the patient during their consultation. The goal of breast reconstruction is not only to restore the physical appearance of the breast but also to help the patient regain confidence and respect for their body following mastectomy.
It is important for patients considering breast reconstruction to have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure. While breast reconstruction can help improve the appearance of the breast, it is not a perfect replacement for natural breast tissue. Dr. Robbins will work closely with each patient to ensure they understand what to expect from the procedure and to help them make an informed decision about their care.
In conclusion, breast reconstruction can be a valuable option for individuals who have undergone mastectomy and are looking to regain a sense of femininity and confidence. Dr. Robbins is dedicated to providing each patient with personalized care and support throughout the breast reconstruction process, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. If you are considering breast reconstruction following mastectomy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Robbins to learn more about your options and how this procedure can benefit you.
Latissimus Flap Breast Reconstruction in Nashville in Nashville, TN
The latissimus dorsi flap method is a procedure for breast reconstruction that has been in use for more than 30 years. This method uses skin from the patient’s body and is commonly combined with a tissue expander and a breast implant.
The latissimus flap technique offers Dr. Robbins additional options with regard to the appearance of the reconstructed breast. The skin flap can create a more natural-looking breast shape when compared to a breast restored through the use of tissue expanders and breast implants alone.
Very thin patients with small breasts can sometimes rely on a latissimus dorsi flap by itself for breast reconstruction because they don’t need implants.
Tissue Expanders in Nashville, TN
Post-mastectomy breast reconstruction with a tissue expander and an implant requires a staged approach. Dr. Robbins will use a tissue expander as a temporary device, placed on the chest wall deep in the pectoralis major muscle. He may place the tissue expander immediately following the mastectomy or later, which is called a delayed procedure.
A tissue expander is designed to create a pocket to contain the permanent breast implant. Tissue expanders are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit the size of the implant the patient and Dr. Robbins choose.
In some cases, Dr. Robbins may use Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) as part of breast reconstruction with tissue expanders. This involves grafting sterile donor tissue to provide a framework into which the patient’s own skin tissue can grow, contributing to a more natural-looking breast shape and providing support for the implant.
Skin-Sparing Mastectomy in Nashville in Nashville, TN
In a skin-sparing mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery, the entire breast, nipple, and areola are removed without removing the breast skin. To preserve the skin, breast reconstruction is performed immediately after the mastectomy.
In this case, the cancer surgeon and Dr. Robbins work together. To remove the cancerous breast tissue, the cancer surgeon makes a small incision around the areola and maintains the rest of the breast skin to optimize the results of cosmetic reconstruction. This leaves a natural breast pocket that Dr. Robbins then fills with either a breast implant or other tissue from the patient’s body.
Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy in Nashville, TN
For some patients, a nipple-sparing mastectomy is an option. To preserve the nipple, breast reconstruction is performed immediately after the mastectomy. In this case, the cancer surgeon and Dr. Robbins work together.
Nipple-sparing surgery is performed by:
- Removing only the breast tissue.
- Hollowing out the area of the nipple.
- Analyzing the tissue that is left for any signs of cancer.
- Immediately reconstructing the tissue back into the breast skin.
Good candidates for the nipple-sparing mastectomy are women who have smaller tumors positioned away from the nipple, as well as those who have elected to have a total mastectomy as a preventative measure.
Following surgery, gauze or bandages are applied to the incisions. After the surgery, the sensation of the nipple and areola are not maintained.
Dr. Robbins sends the patient home with an elastic bandage or support bra, which compresses the surgical area and should minimize swelling while supporting the reconstructed breast. Healing continues for several weeks. Localized swelling should decrease. Over time, the breast shape should normalize and improve.
How Much Does Breast Reconstruction Cost?
Breast reconstruction costs vary among patients. To provide accessibility to quality care for all patients, Dr. Robbins does offer financing options at his office. Schedule a breast reconstruction consultation with Dr. Robbins today to learn about the options for your own procedure.
Dr. Robbins is board certified in plastic surgery and is skilled in the most advanced cosmetic and reconstructive surgery techniques. His focus is on helping patients in and around Nashville and Franklin enhance their quality of life in addition to achieving aesthetic goals. Please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robbins in Nashville.
For most patients, a diagnosis of breast cancer often comes with significant concern over the possible loss or deformity of the breast. However, many patients are unaware of the advances that have been made in the field of breast reconstruction. In most cases, our surgeons can reconstruct a woman’s breast following mastectomy or lumpectomy with outstanding, natural results. We understand that improving your self-image and sense of wholeness are equally important and an integral part of your treatment and recovery from breast cancer. In short, your recovery from breast cancer treatment no longer means living without your breasts.
Breast reconstruction is a staged process in which the breast mound is reconstructed either immediately following mastectomy or at a later date depending on a patient’s individual situation. Our doctors will often use an adjustable implant or a tissue expander that is placed at the time of mastectomy under a patient’s skin and pectorals muscle. This following several (2-5) painless in-office expansions over 2-3 months, a second operation is required to then exchange the temporary expander with a soft permanent implant. The nipple and areola are reconstructed using small in-office procedures and medical tattooing.
Implant Reconstruction
Tissue expander and implant reconstruction offers excellent results with less downtime and risk to patients. For this reason, our surgeons perform this type of reconstruction more often. Some patients, however, may need a more aggressive type of reconstruction depending on their specific situation and type of cancer treatment.
In some cases, your surgeon may recommend the use of a your own tissue for reconstruction. Commonly, this “autologous” reconstruction uses either a patient’s abdominal skin or muscle—TRAM flap, or back skin and muscle—latissimus flap, for reconstructing the breast mound. Patients with a history of or future need for radiation treatment may benefit from this type of reconstruction; however, many patients with radiation may still be a candidate for implant reconstruction. It really depends on how a patient recovered from the radiation treatment and the quality of the chest skin.
Mastectomy and Reconstruction
Patients who undergo mastectomy and reconstruction on one breast commonly undergo a symmetry procedure on the opposite breast to match. This may be an augmentation, reduction or lift, depending on each situation. If you have already had a mastectomy, even if it was years ago, Gawley Plastic Surgery and the Arizona Breast Center can still begin the reconstructive process and create beautiful, symmetrical breasts.
It is very common that over the years following breast reconstruction, changes may occur in a patient’s breasts—asymmetry, implant hardening, and recurrent deformity. Our surgeons can often offer revisional surgery to improve size, shape, and symmetry years after your cancer treatment and reconstruction.
Most importantly, both initial and revisional breast reconstruction surgeries are usually covered by your insurance.
Each patient is unique and has unique needs. At your will go over your options and help you decide which method is best for you.
Breast Reconstruction Safety
Breast reconstruction will not cause your cancer to come back and does not interfere with treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy. Cancer patients who have a positive outlook typically have a much better treatment outcome. For many women, breast reconstruction is an important part of recovery, minimizing the emotional impact and sense of loss and helping them maintain hope, self-esteem, and a positive outlook.
Congenital Defects
Gawley Plastic Surgery and the Arizona Breast Center can reconstruct your breasts if you suffer from congenital defects and breast abnormalities such as missing nipples or lack of chest muscle (Poland’s Syndrome).
Corrective Breast Surgery
Gawley plastic surgeons are some of the few cosmetic surgeons who are willing to perform corrective breast surgery for patients who have undergone prior breast surgery with poor results. If you have had breast augmentation, breast reduction, or a breast lift and are unhappy with the results, Gawley Plastic Surgery can restore the beauty of your breasts.
What is the difference between a TRAM flap and DIEP flap?
Until a few years ago, the TRAM flap technique was the gold standard in breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy, but it has been replaced by the cutting edge DIEP flap technique today. The TRAM surgery has three different forms that can be used – the Pedicled TRAM flap, the Free TRAM flap, and the Muscle-sparing Free TRAM flap. All these procedures use abdominal tissue to recreate the breast except that in the Pedicled TRAM, the skin, fat, and muscle from the abdomen is tunneled under the upper skin of the abdomen to create the new breast. In the Free TRAM technique, the tissue flap is disconnected and reconnected at the chest area with microsurgery. The Muscle – sparing TRAM is the most beneficial since during it, the majority of the abdominal muscle is spared and it leads to lesser complications.
The DIEP flap is the most advanced form of breast reconstruction and like the muscle-sparing TRAM, it also uses your own abdominal skin and fat to recreate a soft breast. However, unlike the TRAM, all your abdominal muscles are preserved. It is like a tummy tuck wherein you experience less pain, maintain the strength of your abdomen and recover faster.
How long does it take to recover from a DIEP flap surgery?
During your DIEP flap surgery, the incision is made along your bikini line to remove the excess skin and fat which are then moved from your abdomen to the chest to create a new breast. No muscles are moved or cut during the procedure. An extra artery and vein from the abdomen are reconnected to an artery and vein in the chest using microsurgery (and sutures finer than human hair). For both breasts, it takes between 6 to 8 hours for completion. You will get detailed aftercare instructions before surgery. The most important aspect after surgery is to rest and refrain from vigorous physical activity. You will be up and walking the same day and ready to leave hospital after a day or two. With the Enhanced Recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols, most patients need only Tylenol and ibuprofen to manage their discomfort. However, you must avoid any strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and sexual activity for about 6 weeks after your DIEP flap surgery. There will be incisions and drainage tubes in the abdominal donor area as well as your reconstructed breasts for a week or two. Overall, most women are pleasantly surprised how well they recover from this surgery when they follow the instructions.
Insurance and Breast Reconstruction
In most cases, breast reconstruction is covered by health insurance because it is not an elective procedure. Gawley Plastic Surgery accepts insurance for reconstructive breast surgery. Unfortunately, we cannot accept insurance for corrective breast surgery.
Top 10 Plastic Surgeons In Nashville Tn
Plastic Surgery of the Eyelids in Nashville
Peruse Photographs of Individual Patients
Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, can be used to remove excess skin and fat from the eyelids, restoring a more youthful appearance and rejuvenating the eyes. In order to achieve this more youthful and alert appearance, excess skin and muscle are removed or repositioned during eyelid surgery.
Double Eyelid Surgery
Upper blepharoplasty, or an eyelid lift, is performed through a small incision within the eyelid’s normal crease. In order to conceal any scars from a lower blepharoplasty, the procedure is typically performed through the incisions already present in the lids. In some cases, an incision is made just below the lash line of the lower lid to remove excess skin and fat. There is no danger to the eyelashes during the procedure. Rather than removing the excess fat that causes the lower eyelids to bulge, many patients opt to have it distributed into the hollows that form there. Therefore, the surgical result won’t be too skewed toward the hollow.
Situating the Operation
A blepharoplasty can be done in the doctor’s office or an outpatient surgical clinic. The end result is the same regardless of where you look. Dr. Biesman frequently makes use of a laser that shortens the duration of the operation and the time required for recovery. Key distinctions between the two choices are as follows:
In an outpatient surgery center, the patient is usually sedated to the point of unconsciousness. Having surgery done at a specialized facility will set you back more money.
Patients undergoing in-office procedures are not put to sleep but instead stay fully conscious. Most people opt to take a tranquilizer before getting an in-office blepharoplasty.
Breast Surgeons Nashville Tn
The Honorable PAT W. WHITWORTH, MD, FACS
Dr. Pat W. Whitworth is an internationally renowned expert in breast surgical oncology. He began his distinguished career in 1983 after graduating from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine & Surgery. He subsequently completed an internship and residency in surgery at the University of Louisville in 1988 and a fellowship in surgical oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center in 1991.
Dr. Whitworth is a board-certified general surgeon who specializes in the care of patients suffering from breast abnormalities and cancer. Dr. Whitworth has been at the forefront of technology and surgical breakthroughs for over 30 years. His specialties as a surgeon include oncoplastic surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy, minimally invasive breast cancer treatment, and the aforementioned minimally invasive biopsy.
Doctor LAURA L. LAWSON
It was in Charleston, West Virginia, that Dr. Laura L. Lawson was born and raised. After completing her undergraduate degree at West Virginia University, she shifted her focus to the medical field by enrolling at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. She stayed at Vanderbilt for her general surgery residency and a fellowship in breast surgical oncology after graduating from medical school.
Dr. Lawson has been the medical director of the Ascension St. Thomas Breast Cancer Program for well over a decade. She has completed additional training and is certified by the American Society of Breast Surgeons in addition to her board certification and membership in the American College of Surgeons. She is a Vanderbilt University Assistant Professor of Clinical Surgery and a staff member at St. Thomas Midtown and Centennial Women’s Hospitals.
Dr. Lawson enjoys spending time with her sons, who keep her plenty busy with their extracurricular activities when she’s not at work (especially baseball). She is an avid reader, scrapbooker, snow skier, and world traveler.
She has been recognized as a Women to Watch in Nashville, as well as one of the city’s Top Doctors, Healthcare Heroes, and Exceptional Women in Medicine. As well as serving on the Board of Directors at the Nashville Academy of Medicine, she was previously president of the Tennessee Association of Women Physicians.
MD EDUARDO C. DIAS
A native of Porto Alegre, Dr. Eduardo C. Dias attended medical school at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFGRS), one of Brazil’s top five institutions of its kind. Dr. Dias is passionate about improving the health of women and has pursued training in both obstetrics and gynecology and breast surgical oncology in Brazil. He moved to Music City after receiving the prestigious AACR/Avon Scholarship in Breast Cancer Research and finishing his postdoctoral research fellowship at Vanderbilt.
When he was done with his research fellowship at VUMC, he went on to finish an additional residency in obstetrics and gynecology and a fellowship in breast surgery that was accredited by the Society of Surgical Oncology. Dr. Dias settled in Nashville, where he continues to work as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medical Education at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.