At Ginger Slack, MD, patients seeking implant-based breast reconstruction in Los Angeles find a safe, sophisticated approach to restoring confidence after mastectomy. Dr. Slack specializes in direct-to-implant and tissue expander techniques, ensuring natural, refined results. She personalizes each procedure to meet her patients’ unique aesthetic goals at California’s top-ranked surgery center.
Restore Breast Shape and Size Using Implant-Based Reconstruction
Implant-based breast reconstruction restores breast shape after a mastectomy using silicone or saline implants. If you’re considering this approach, it can be done immediately during your mastectomy (direct-to-implant) or in stages using a tissue expander to gradually create space before placing the final implant. This method is ideal if you prefer a shorter recovery and want to avoid using your own tissue. Dr. Slack customizes every reconstruction to achieve natural, symmetrical results that align with your body and aesthetic goals.
Benefits of Implant-Based Reconstruction:
- Shorter surgery time compared to autologous (flap) reconstruction
- Faster initial recovery with less downtime
- No need for additional donor sites, avoiding scars elsewhere on the body
- Predictable results with established techniques and implant options
- Customizable size and shape to match your aesthetic goals
- Option for staged reconstruction, allowing for gradual expansion and refinement
- Less invasive overall compared to flap-based procedures
- Easier revision process if future adjustments are needed
What Are the Types of Implant-Based Reconstruction Available?
Implant-based breast reconstruction in Los Angeles can be done using two main approaches, depending on your individual needs and goals. Some patients can receive their final implant immediately, while others may benefit from a staged approach using a temporary tissue expander. Dr. Slack will guide you in choosing the best method for a beautiful, natural outcome.
Tissue Expander-To-Implant Reconstruction
Tissue expander-to-implant reconstruction is a two-stage process that allows for gradual shaping of the breast pocket before placing the final implant. A temporary tissue expander is inserted beneath the skin and chest muscle during the initial surgery. Over the following weeks, saline is injected into the expander through a small port, gradually stretching the skin and soft tissue. Once the desired breast size is reached, a second surgery is performed to replace the expander with a permanent silicone or saline implant.
Direct-To-Implant Reconstruction
Direct-to-implant reconstruction is a one-stage procedure where the final breast implant is placed immediately after mastectomy. This approach eliminates the need for a temporary tissue expander, allowing you to wake up from surgery with a fully reconstructed breast shape. It is best suited for patients with sufficient healthy skin and soft tissue to support the implant right away. In many cases, an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) or mesh is used to provide additional support and create a natural breast contour.
What Can I Expect During the Consultation?
During your consultation, Dr. Slack will take the time to understand your goals, concerns, and medical history to determine if implant-based reconstruction is right for you. She will thoroughly examine your chest and skin quality and assess the outcome of any prior surgeries to determine the right approach. You’ll discuss implant options, incision placement, and whether a tissue expander is needed. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and create a personalized surgical plan tailored to your needs.
Will My Breasts Look and Feel Natural?
Dr. Slack’s approach emphasizes aesthetic balance and natural-looking results. While implant-based reconstruction does not restore natural breast sensation, it can create a beautiful, symmetrical breast shape that complements your body. You can also explore possible fat grafting options to further enhance the naturalness of the results using your own tissue.
Why choose Dr. Ginger Slack?
Dr. Ginger Slack is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and aesthetic body surgery. With advanced fellowship training in reconstructive microsurgery and experience at California’s top-ranked surgery center, she brings unmatched expertise to implant-based breast reconstruction in Los Angeles. Dr. Slack is known for her meticulous surgical technique, artistic eye, and compassionate approach, ensuring that each patient receives natural, beautiful results. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your breast reconstruction options and take the next step toward feeling whole again.
