Breast Cancer Treatment – FAQ’s

Any surgery can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when you don’t know what to expect. The information in this section, including a personal account by one of our patients who had One-Stage Breast Reconstruction with Implant and AlloDerm®, will help you understand what the reconstructive experience is like.

Will my body reject AlloDerm®?

No. AlloDerm® is human tissue from which all DNA is removed, thereby eliminating the cause of rejection. AlloDerm® provides a foundation for new tissue to regenerate. About 6 weeks after reconstruction, your own cells migrate into the AlloDerm® and create new tissue. This process continues as you heal, until your body transforms the AlloDerm® into tissue that resembles and functions like your own.

How much sensation will I have in my reconstructed breasts?

Loss of sensation varies greatly by individual and the type of mastectomy performed. Many of our patients who have mastectomy with immediate one-stage reconstruction regain much of their natural sensation over several months.

Will my insurance cover one-stage reconstruction?

Federal law requires insurance companies that cover mastectomy to also pay for the cost of reconstruction, including surgery to the opposite breast if needed to attain symmetry.

The benefits paid by insurance companies for plastic surgery vary greatly from carrier to carrier and plan to plan. We make every effort to determine in advance if insurance coverage exists, the projected insurance payment and your out-of-pocket surgical expenses. Our experienced office staff can help provide appropriate documentation and information to secure approval from your insurance company, for preauthorization or an appeal if your initial request has been denied. Please contact our office to discuss all arrangements regarding payment of your account with us.

Will radiation or chemotherapy delay my reconstruction?

Generally, women who need a mastectomy can have immediate reconstruction, even when they require radiation or chemotherapy. However, in cases where your oncologist considers postponing reconstruction because of a potential risk of infection or delayed healing, please allow Dr. Salzberg to discuss this issue with him/her. Reconstruction can also be performed on a delayed basis after completion of chemotherapy and/or radiation treatments.

Will my new breasts look like my natural breasts?

Dr. Salzberg makes every effort to recreate your natural breast shape and size, if that’s what you desire. Many women find reconstruction is an opportunity to reduce or enlarge their natural breast size. Dr. Salzberg will discuss this with you in detail during your consultation appointment.

Are saline or silicone implants better?

This is a matter of individual choice, although silicone more closely mimics the softness and feel of natural breast tissue. Dr. Salzberg will discuss this with you in detail during your consultation appointment.

Is silicone safe?

After significant studies and no evidence of health-related problems, the FDA has approved use of silicone breast implants. Newer silicone implants are considered to be much less likely to rupture than older models. Dr. Salzberg uses only FDA-approved silicone gel implants. See our Links page for more information.

Will I need mammograms after one-stage reconstruction?

You should discuss future screening requirements with your oncologist. However, mammograms are generally not required after mastectomy, because your breast tissue has been removed. Your oncologist may recommend regular manual exams and annual MRI for breast cancer surveillance. Currently, the FDA recommends an MRI 3 years after reconstruction and every 2 years thereafter to screen for rupture of silicone implants.

Can I manage one-stage reconstruction if I don’t live near Dr. Salzberg’s office?

Patients from all over the U.S. travel to our New York location to take advantage of our One-Stage reconstructive procedure. Our efficient, caring staff can recommend local hotels and provide other information to minimize the stress and discomfort of traveling. Please contact our office for more information.

A phone consultation with Dr. Salzberg can be arranged to determine if you are a candadate for surgery and to ask any questions you may have prior to making travel arrangements.  If you would like to setup a phone consultaions please e-mail Dr. Salzberg’s surgical coordinator Beth Cerbone at bcerbone@nygplasticsurgery.com .  Please include three pictures of your breast (front and both sides) and forms (can we attach the Welcome packet forms her).  If you can not e-mail forms please fax them to 914 366-6824.