Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction in New Orleans, LA
Ready to get started?
Contact UsWhat Is Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction?
At Stalder Plastic Surgery, we want to partner with women and help them feel whole again with breast reconstruction surgery. Our plastic surgeon, Dr. Mark W. Stalder, can restore the breasts to a more normal shape, appearance, and size following a mastectomy, lumpectomy, skin alterations from radiation treatment, uneven breasts since birth, ruptured breast implants, or trauma to the breast tissues. Dr. Stalder can rebuild the breast(s) using several techniques, including a direct-to-implant ("one-step" reconstruction) or two-stage implant surgery.
Every patient is different so results and surgical techniques may vary from patient to patient. Our team of compassionate medical professionals can help restore your breast tissue and the self-esteem, sensuality, and quality of life you had before. We would love to sit down with you and discuss all of your options for breast reconstruction at our New Orleans, LA office.
What Are the Benefits of Implant-Based Reconstruction?
Implant-based breast reconstruction at Stalder Plastic Surgery offers a innovative option for women looking to reclaim their body's appearance following a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or other breast-related procedures. Dr. Mark W. Stalder utilizes advanced techniques to restore the breast to a more normal shape, appearance, and size, with benefits that include:
- Restoration of breast volume and shape
- Options for immediate or delayed reconstruction
- Improved self-esteem and body image
- Customization to patient needs
Am I A Candidate for Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction?
To be a good candidate for implant-based reconstruction, you should be in good overall health and should avoid any activities that might hinder the recovery process (like smoking). This treatment is intended for women having comfort or confidence issues after mastectomy and who don't have enough natural tissue for other approaches. During your consultation, we'll talk about your health history and recommend a breast reconstruction plan based on your needs. We'll also discuss what you can expect in terms of how your reconstruction will look and feel.
What Happens During Implant-based Breast Reconstruction?
Following a mastectomy, Dr. Stalder will either insert a gel implant (direct-to-implant reconstruction) or a temporary tissue expander (two-stage reconstruction) into a pocket formed under the muscle and the remaining skin on the chest wall. In two-stage reconstruction, saline solution is gradually inserted into the tissue expander to stretch the muscle and skin. Once the pocket has reached the desired size, the expander is left in place for 2 – 3 months. Then, the expander is removed and replaced with a silicone gel implant.
During a private consultation at our New Orleans, LA office at Stalder Plastic Surgery, we will discuss all of the options available to you.
What to Expect Following Implant-Based Reconstruction
After implant-based breast reconstruction, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the surgical area, which will gradually subside over the next few weeks. You may need to wear a supportive garment to aid in healing and reduce swelling. Most patients can return to light activities within a week or two, though strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks. Follow-up appointments with your surgeon will monitor your recovery and ensure the implants are settling properly. Full results become more apparent as the swelling decreases and your body adjusts to the new breast shape.
Direct-to-Implant
Direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction, often called immediate implant breast reconstruction, is a popular approach to reinstating the breast after mastectomy due to breast cancer treatment or risk reduction. This procedure involves placing a breast implant during the mastectomy in a single stage, eliminating the need for a tissue expander. A single-stage DTI breast reconstruction is ideal for certain patients, as it addresses breast loss during mastectomy in a single operation.
Two-Stage Implant Reconstruction
Two-stage implant-based breast reconstruction is the most commonly performed postmastectomy reconstructive method. In the first stage, a tissue expander creates a pocket with enough space to accommodate the implant. This step aims to establish a solid base for the subsequent implant placement during the procedure's second stage. This method also offers the option to use larger implants if desired.
Learn More About Stalder Plastic Surgery
About UsImplant-Based Reconstruction FAQs
Does insurance cover my surgery?
The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) of 1998 requires insurance plans that cover breast cancer surgery (mastectomy) to cover reconstruction surgery as well. If you have health insurance, someone from Stalder Plastic Surgery will help you understand your policy and benefits. We can also help you submit needed paperwork to your insurance carrier.
What about nipple reconstruction?
Reconstruction of the nipple and areola are typically performed using cosmetic tattooing. If you're interested in nipple and areola reconstruction, you should ask Dr. Stalder in your consultation. They will explain your options to help you decide whether you want cosmetic tattooing of your nipple-areola complex to be a part of your treatment plan.
Should I have reconstruction with my mastectomy or wait?
The timing of your breast reconstruction is based on several things. Some patients choose to get their reconstruction performed at the same time as their mastectomy, while others prefer to wait. Dr. Stalder suggests you make a consultation following a diagnosis of breast cancer so you can start considering your choices and when you may want reconstruction surgery. If you decide to have reconstruction at the same time as your breast cancer treatment, Dr. Stalder can collaborate with your oncologist to plan your surgery.
Related Procedures
Stalder Plastic Surgery Reviews
I can’t give enough thanks to Dr Stalder and his PA Megan. After a DMX to implant and a year of complications, they immediately developed a plan and I underwent a SHAEP FLAP procedure. The recovery from this surgery compared to the implants from another plastic surgeon was night and day. I knew right then I had chosen the right team this time. Megan is readily available by text for any questions or advice. I cannot say how grateful I am to this amazing team of medical professionals and a simple thank you is not enough. They gave me a quality of life back and I feel I am finally on a forward path. I highly recommend Stalder Plastics to anyone who unfortunately needs their services.
Dr. Mark Stalder and his entire team played a huge and life-changing role in my reconstruction journey, and I could not be more grateful. From the very beginning, Dr. Stalder was amazing, knowledgeable, compassionate, and enthusiastic about helping me feel whole again after such a difficult diagnosis. His confidence and skill gave me so much peace during a time that felt overwhelming.He explained every step of the reconstruction process clearly and made sure I understood my options. I always felt heard, respected, and cared for. The results of his work speak for themselves, and I am incredibly thankful that he was part of my care team.I also must recognize his nurse, Megan—she is truly top tier. Megan is kind, attentive, and always willing to help. She responds quickly anytime she is contacted and never makes you feel like a bother. Having someone so dependable and compassionate made all the difference in my recovery.Dr. Stalder and his team are exceptional, and I highly recommend them with great enthusiasm to anyone needing reconstructive surgery. They gave me not only excellent medical care but also hope, confidence, and comfort along the way. I will forever be grateful.
Dr. Mark Stalder is an exceptional plastic surgeon, and my experience with his office came during a particularly challenging time in my life. With a strong family history of breast cancer on my maternal side, I made the decision to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy with immediate DIEP reconstruction in an effort to prevent cancer. It was a difficult decision, but one that I did not take lightly. I chose to work with Stalder Plastic Surgery, and I am incredibly grateful for that choice. Throughout the process, every question I had was answered, and every concern I faced was addressed with professionalism and compassion. The entire team at Stalder Plastic Surgery supported me every step of the way, offering unmatched care and dedication. Having lost my mother to breast cancer, I am hopeful that I will never have to hear those dreaded words, “you have breast cancer,” in my lifetime. I highly recommend Dr. Mark Stalder to anyone considering breast reconstruction. He listens attentively, provides compassionate care, and is dedicated to his patients. His team worked diligently to ensure I was fully informed and confident in my decisions regarding the surgery, making me feel valued and well-cared-for throughout the process. Now, over a year later, I can confidently say that choosing both Dr. Stalder and this surgery was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Dr. Stalder and his team are truly the best in their field.
When I decided to treat myself to a mastopexy for my 50th birthday, I asked some nurse friends who they recommended for a plastic surgeon. They both said they love and trust Dr Stalder and his team. His patients recover well, love their results, and have so much gratitude for Dr Stalder and his team. I am now among them!Without any pressure, Dr Stalder educated me about fat grafting to also add volume. I chose that option instead of mastopexy alone. I knew I’d love my results, but I didn’t fully appreciate how much of a perfectionist Dr Stalder is. He exceeded my expectations!Recovery was easy, results are beautiful, and I take every opportunity to refer people to Dr Stalder, so they can also have the best possible experience.
I had a great experience with Dr. Stalder and his team. He was very kind, informative, and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. The staff (Jess) is friendly and welcoming, and Abby, the PA, was excellent as well. Highly recommend! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
57
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating