Secondary Procedures in New Orleans, LA
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Contact UsWhat are secondary reconstructive procedures?
New Orleans, LA plastic surgeon Dr. Mark W. Stalder helps his patients achieve the best possible results following the loss of a breast due to breast cancer treatment, traumatic injury, or birth defect. Dr. Stalder will help you decide what works best for your needs. There is often a need for secondary reconstructive procedures, like nipple reconstruction, fat grafting, revision surgery, laser scar revision, and nipple tattooing. Please contact Stalder Plastic Surgery to learn more about how we can help rebuild your appearance after breast loss.
What Are the Benefits of Secondary Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is often a necessary step for women who want to regain their confidence and a sense of normalcy following a mastectomy. Secondary treatments allow Dr. Stalder to put the finishing touches on your reconstruction for a more natural appearance. The benefits of secondary breast reconstruction procedures at Stalder Plastic Surgery include:
- Improves the appearance of the breast(s)
- Enhances self-confidence and quality of life
- Allows you to feel more comfortable in a wide variety of outfits
- Can help reduce the visibility of scars
Am I A Candidate for A Secondary Reconstructive Procedure?
If you are in the process of reconstructing one or both of your breasts after mastectomy, Stalder Plastic Surgery can help with our selection of secondary reconstructive procedures. To be a suitable candidate, you should be in good overall health. Our team will work with you during your consultation to create a look and feel that matches your goals and helps you feel more comfortable and confident.
What to Expect After Secondary Procedures
After secondary breast reconstruction procedures, you can expect some temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, similar to your initial surgery. These effects usually subside within a few weeks. Recovery time may vary depending on the extent of the procedure, but most patients can resume light activities within a week, with full recovery taking several weeks. Follow-up visits with our team at Stalder Plastic Surgery will ensure proper healing and that the revisions are achieving the desired results.
Laser Scar Revision
Dr. Stalder has developed a comprehensive scar management program that includes immediate and long-term care to minimize scarring. This laser treatment is ideal for patients with hypertrophic (raised) scars, especially those resulting from surgical incisions. The laser wavelength can be adjusted to target optimal skin depth and microscopic treatment zones, allowing complete customization to meet each patient's needs. Patients will see a noticeable improvement after just one treatment, but a series of three treatments at six-week intervals is recommended to achieve optimum results.
Fat Grafting
Using liposuction, fat is harvested from one area of the body and injected into the restored breast. This procedure improves the contour and volume of the breast.
Nipple Tattooing
After a mastectomy or breast reconstruction, where the nipple and areola might be removed, we offer cosmetic tattooing. This procedure can recreate the appearance of the nipple and areola by adding natural tones, pigment, and shadows to the skin for enhanced aesthetics. For symmetry, when tattooing one nipple, we closely match the remaining nipple. When both nipples are tattooed, an image of the breasts before the mastectomy can help obtain the best results.
Nipple Reconstruction
This is the final step following a non-nipple sparing mastectomy. Combining surgical and medical tattoo techniques provides the look of a nipple and areola.
Revision Surgery
Any type of surgery used to correct problems related to previous breast surgery. Types include breast reconstruction, nipple and areolar reconstruction, mastopexy (breast lift), implant augmentation, removal, or exchange.
Learn More About Stalder Plastic Surgery
About UsLearn More About secondary reconstructive procedures
Secondary procedures are often necessary after breast reconstruction. These procedures help to improve the aesthetic and symmetry of the breasts and the tissue donor sites. Please call Stalder Plastic Surgery in New Orleans, LA today to learn about secondary reconstruction procedures. We will schedule your appointment for a complete evaluation and a personal consultation with Dr. Stalder at your earliest convenience.
Secondary Procedures FAQs
How soon after my breast reconstruction can I schedule a secondary reconstructive procedure?
Typically, it's advised to wait 6 – 12 months after your initial breast reconstruction before considering a secondary procedure. This interval allows your body to fully heal and the results of the first surgery to stabilize. Dr. Stalder will assess your specific situation to determine the best timing for a secondary reconstruction.
How will secondary breast reconstruction affect sensation in my breasts?
Secondary breast reconstruction may affect breast sensation, with potential changes or reduced sensitivity. The extent of this varies from patient to patient. While some might experience a decrease in sensation, others may see gradual improvement over time. During your consultation, Dr. Stalder will discuss the likely outcomes based on the techniques used in your reconstruction.
Can I have multiple reconstructive procedures at the same time?
Combining multiple reconstructive procedures in one surgical session is possible, depending on your health and the complexity of the procedures. This approach can minimize overall recovery time. Dr. Stalder will build your plan with a focus on your safety and optimizing your results.
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Stalder Plastic Surgery Reviews
I cannot speak highly enough about my experience with the team at Stalder Plastic Surgery. They are sensitive, caring, professional, comforting and smart. They walked me through a life changing surgery and I felt that they were a constant source of support.
Dr. Stalder and his office staff are beyond amazing. They make you feel so comfortable and welcome. They made my reconstruction journey so pleasant and calming.
On August 1, 2023 at the age of 69 I was diagnosed with breast cancer in my right breast. So many things go through your mind at this time and so many choices to make. Within a week I had a team that consisted of an oncologist, radiologist, breast surgeon and plastic surgeon. All amazing doctors, but my plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Stalder, of Stalder Plastic Surgery hit it out the ballpark. My spouse and I went into our first visit with so many questions, we had a list, and each question was patiently answered. During a few consultations with Dr. Stalder I decided that I would do a double mastectomy with DIEP Flap reconstruction. Even though my cancer was only in my right breast I didn’t want the concern of it occurring in my left breast at a later date. Jess, Dr. Stalder’s patient rep had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. She had gone through the same surgery I was about to undergo. I spoke to her at length about my decision and what was to come. Jess was so very so helpful and supportive and really put my mind at ease with my decision. Abby, Dr. Stalder’s PA is the best, such a sweetheart. She was there for every visit from pre-op to all of my follow ups. When she went out on maternity leave, Alexa stepped in, once again another fabulous person. She made me feel as if she had been there from day one as well. I can’t leave Angie out either. On a few occasions when I called with a question and staff was with other patients she always answered my questions or made sure I got my question answered. The surgery I chose consisted of two surgeries, the first the Masectomy and DIEP flap and then a few months later there was the “tweaking” surgery. The second one was to even out my breasts and move the scar from the DIEP flap and tighten up my belly. The first surgery was September 19, 2023 and the second was on February 19, 2024. All through these surgeries Dr. Stalder and his amazing team have been right there along for the ride with me. Always patient and kind when I came in for follow-ups with my list of questions. Dr. Stalder always walks in with the biggest smile and makes you feel so comfortable. And let me tell you how important that is considering you are completely naked during those follow up visits. It’s been almost a year since my first surgery and I can’t thank Dr. Stalder, Jess, Abby, Alexa and Angie enough for their professionalism, kindness, compassion, making me feel like a person, not just a patient, and for giving my spouse piece of mind during this ordeal as well. You guys rock!
Dr. Stalder and his staff are deserving of more than 5 stars. They are truly the best - doctor, physician's assistant , Abby and office staff, Jess. My mastectomy and reconstruction surgeries were very difficult and had many unforeseen complications. Dr. Stalder was so caring and encouraging. He and his staff were never more than a phone call away. They were always patient and kind. The end results are amazing; he has made me feel whole again. I am forever grateful for Dr. Stalder and staff.
From the day I met Dr Stalder he always asked me what I wanted rather than force anything on me. I trusted the process from the start and in the course of a year, the work done to my body is unbelievable. The more I heal the more beautiful everything is. From him to his 5 star staff, they are truly some wonderful people. My breasts look amazing!!! I still can’t believe how it all came together! Anytime I had a question him and his team were there to provide the answers almost in the blink of an eye! I am so honored to have worked with Dr Stalder and his team. I will never forget you all as I continue on with my life. You all were a special part of my breast cancer journey. Waking up to Abby checking on me also warmed my heart. She’s such a sweetheart ! I love you all and pray you continue to do an amazing job with individuals dealing with cancer. You have restored my dignity and helped me to love myself again.
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