procedures

Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction
In Mishawaka, IN

Breast reconstruction is an important surgical option for individuals who have undergone partial or total breast removal due to cancer or other diseases. At The Centre, P.C., our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in reconstructing breasts to restore their natural shape and form, helping patients regain confidence and a sense of normalcy.

In most cases, breast reconstruction can be performed immediately following mastectomy or delayed until after other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation. This procedure does not affect the recurrence of breast cancer or interfere with ongoing treatments.

Types
Expectations
Testimonials
FAQ

Types

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Types of Breast Reconstruction

Implant-Based Reconstruction

Direct to Implant Reconstruction:

Single stage approach is most suitable for candidates of nipple sparing, skin sparing mastectomies. A permanent implant, silcone or saline, is inserted immediately following the mastectomy.

Tissue Expander / Implant Reconstruction:

Option 2 would be a two-stage procedure where at the time of the mastectomy a tissue expander is inserted into the pocket under the skin. This device is gradually filled with saline over the course of several weeks to stretch the skin. Once the desired volume is achieved, in a secondary operation, the expander is removed and replaced with a permanent implant.

Oncoplastic Reconstruction or Breast Conservation Reconstruction

Oncoplastic or breast conservation reconstruction is the removal of breast cancer while still leaving an adequate portion of breast tissue behind to make a cosmetically appealing breast.

breast reconstruction model

woman self breast exam

Flap Reconstruction

Flap reconstruction uses tissue from other parts of the body to recreate the breast. Options include:

TRAM Flap: Skin, Fat and Muscle are taken from the abdomen to create a natural looking and feeling breast.
Latissimus Dorsi Flap: An ellipse of muscle and tissue is taken from the back and repositioned to the chest, often combined with an implant.

Expectations

What to Expect After Breast Reconstruction

Recovery varies depending on the type of reconstruction:

Hospital Stay

Most patients are discharged within two to five days, though some flap procedures may require a longer stay.

Drains

Surgical drains are often placed to remove excess fluid and are typically removed after one to two weeks.

Healing Time

Depending upon the type of surgery, full recovery may take from six weeks up to three months. Light activities can resume within 10 to 14 days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for six weeks.

Appearance

Reconstructed breasts will never look or feel like your natural breast. It may feel firmer and look rounder than natural breasts, and symmetry adjustments may be needed.

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Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, breast reconstruction carries some risks, including:

Infection
Fluid collection
Bleeding
Scarring
Change in sensation
Implant complications, such as rupture or capsular contracture

Choosing a skilled, board-certified surgeon reduces these risks and ensures the best possible outcomes.

Nipple and Areola Reconstruction

Nipple repair and areola reconstruction are performed at least 2 months after your initial reconstructive surgery is completed. Nipple repair can be done at The Centre, P.C. under local or general anesthesia, depending on how involved the procedure is.

During this procedure, your plastic surgeon will take your breast tissue and turn it up on itself to make the protrusion of the nipple.

After about two to three months, after your new nipple has healed, you may have the nipple tattooed to resemble a more natural look. The tattooing, or micro pigmentation, may not be covered by your medical insurance.

Our expert staff can help determine your eligibility for reconstructive procedures.

Feeling overwhelmed? Our Breast Reconstruction Book can help you take the first step.

Get the Breast Reconstruction Book

Gallery

Before & Afters

Recent Results

Before and after Blepharoplasty case 13974

Testimonials

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Real Patient Testimonials/Reviews

I would recommend their office to everyone!

Everyone is so professional, compassionate, and willing to help in anyway.

I would recommend their office to everyone.

—

I couldn’t be happier with my experience

Dr. Downs and whole team at Centre PC have been amazing! They listened to me as I told them my desired results, provided different options for me, based on years of industry knowledge and worked alongside me as I navigated the headaches of insurance. I couldn’t be happier with my experience there and would highly recommend them to anyone looking to make some positive change in their life!

— Ashley N

Dr. Downs is the best

I had a great experience here, the staff are so friendly and make you feel comfortable. Dr. Downs is the best, I will definitely be returning.

— Elizabeth C

I highly recommend

I recently had a surgical procedure done with Dr. Macias. The staff was absolutely amazing from my consult to surgery everyone was soooo sweet and kind! So very helpful from the front desk to the treatment coordinators to the pre op the whole surgery experience to post op!!

If you are considering on having anything done I highly recommend. I am extremely happy with my results so far and it’s only been a week.

— Gretchen L

Dr Downs has an amazing staff!

I was referred to The Centre by the on call hand Doctor that reviewed my ER case after I split my thumb open. From setting up my appointment to being taken care of by the staff, it was a pleasant experience. Each member of the team I met was attentive, very forthright with any information I needed & were an absolute pleasure to be around. Dr. Downs has an amazing staff!

— Rob P

Dr. Downs is fantastic.

Dr. Downs is fantastic. He is very knowledgeable and communicates very effectively. The staff made this experience comfortable for me. I am very happy and pleased with the results.

— Lexi P

Very good bedside manner and great doctor

I was recently hospitalized last week for a finger infection. I ended up having surgery and Dr. Downs was my doctor. Very good bedside manner and great doctor. He takes his time to explain things to you. I really liked that. And went to his office for my follow up. All the staff were so sweet and professional.

— Cheryl G

I felt respected, seen and heard!

From the time I walked in the door to the moment I walked out, I felt respected, seen and heard! The staff are kind and gentle and I will never go anywhere else for the things I need. Dr. Macias is outstanding.

— Lisa C

Doctor Downs is the best

I love the centre. Pc. The staff they treat you like they know you forever they explain they make sure what you’re going to do and ext. Doctor Downs is the best. He’s funny but when is about to do his job is he’s very strict and very discipline no doubt. Thank you guys for make me feel happy and look beautiful 😍 God bless all of you 🙏😍

— Maribel R

I enjoyed my whole experience

I received a rhinoplasty from Dr. Macias and my nose is PERFECT. 😍

I enjoyed my whole experience but here are a few specific highlights that stuck out:

The staff is kind, informative, and responds quickly.
I loved the simulation they used to show desired results.
The staff the day of surgery was fun and helped me with my nerves.
From the little shopping I did, their prices were the best (sometimes by far!).

— Shaina P

Dr. Downs is fantastic

Dr. Downs is fantastic. He is very knowledgeable and communicates very effectively. The staff made this experience comfortable for me. I am very happy and pleased with the results.

— Lexi P

I’m so happy Dr Downs is who I decided to go to for this surgery.

It has been officially 5 week since my tummy tuck and breast lift. After losing 150lbs I knew I needed this done but never thought it would be possible. After meeting with Dr. Downs and his team my dreams started to seem like reality. Five weeks ago we completed 1 of my 2 suggested surgery’s. My recovery so far has been extremely easy with little to no pain. Dr. Downs has been just the best. He took his time and explained every part of my surgery and what I could expect. It was a pleasant surprise to wake up from surgery and find out he didn’t have to make the vertical incision down my stomach due to all the my weight loss, and lose skin. I’m so happy Dr. Downs is who I decided to go to for this surgery. Can’t wait for him to complete my project.

— Amber C

Contact
The Centre, P.C.
Today!

If you’re considering breast reconstruction, our experienced and compassionate team is here to guide you through every step. Contact The Centre, P.C., at 574-968-9100 option #2, or reach out online to schedule your consultation. Let us help you rebuild your confidence and move forward with strength and hope.

Call Now

Schedule Now

mishawaka woman enjoying coffee on a couch

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions
about Breast Reconstruction in Mishawaka, IN

Candidates include individuals who have undergone mastectomy, lumpectomy, or prophylactic mastectomy. Your surgeon will assess your medical history and treatment plan to determine eligibility.

Breast reconstruction is often covered by insurance under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act. Our team can assist you in understanding your coverage and options.

Yes, delayed reconstruction is a viable option for many patients and can be performed months or even years after the initial surgery.

While reconstructed breasts may not feel identical to natural breasts, modern techniques provide highly realistic results in appearance and touch.

Contact
The Centre, P.C.
Today!

Call Now

Schedule Now

mishawaka woman enjoying coffee on a couch

Breast Reconstruction
In Mishawaka, IN