Posted: April 30, 2025
Breast reconstruction is a highly individualized procedure that may help restore a sense of wholeness and beauty after mastectomy or other breast-related surgery. Internationally known cosmetic and breast reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Jay Orringer, believes in a caring, personalized, and individualized approach, recognizing that each patient has a unique set of concerns and considerations.
A Patient-Centered Planning Process
Breast reconstruction is definitely not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Some patients may prefer implant-based reconstruction, while others may be candidates for tissue-based techniques using their own body’s tissue. Dr. Orringer begins each consultation by learning about the patient’s medical history, treatment timeline, and aesthetic goals. This collaborative planning process helps determine which method may be most appropriate.
Factors such as patient height and weight, prior breast surgery, prior or anticipated radiation all play a role in shaping the surgical plan. Dr. Orringer is a strong advocate for immediate reconstruction in the vast majority of his patients. Whether expander-implant or tissue-based immediate reconstruction, Dr. Orringer strives for a result that will allow the patient to leave the hospital feeling she is on a positive path to restoration of wholeness and beauty. Dr. Orringer believes the patient is the captain of the team she assembles, and he considers it a privilege to a part of that team. Whether she chooses the use of an implant or reconstruction using her own tissue is based on a variety of individualized considerations.
Use of An Implant or One’s Own Tissue?
Implant procedures are typically simpler procedures that are associated with a shorter hospital stay and recuperative period. However, implants require maintenance in the course of a patient’s life. They are typically not as good as tissue in the setting of radiation. The potentially most natural and durable long-term breast reconstructive result is often achieved with the use of one’s own tissue, such as that removed in a tummy tuck. Once successfully transferred, unlike implants, tissue reconstructions are permanent. However, use of tissue, usually from the abdomen or upper buttock, involves a tummy tuck or buttock lift-type scar that must be acceptable to the patient. Dr. Orringer will discuss the various advantages and disadvantages of each to assist with the decision-making. If an implant option is selected, it can be placed over or under the muscle. If placed over the muscle (pre-pectoral position), more implant rippling is often seen than with partial placement under the muscle (sub-pectoral). While partial sub-pectoral placement is associated with more animation deformity by the muscle, much of the time, it may have a more overall natural appearance, with less reliance on fat grafting. Limiting fat grafting may decrease the incidence of fat grafting-associated lumps and cysts. However, there are advocates of both approaches, and the ultimate decision is made by a well-educated patient.
Focus on A Personalized Approach
During the initial consultation, Dr. Orringer will discuss in detail a wide variety of available options and will consider your aesthetic concerns, overall health, and unique individual considerations. He will attempt to assist you in choosing the option with which you are most comfortable. Dr. Orringer has written and lectured on aesthetic mastectomy incisional approaches, as well as nipple-sparing mastectomy. He also currently performs nipple nerve reconstruction. He considers it a privilege to share in your care and to discuss these, and other innovative techniques, as part of your breast reconstruction education and decision-making process.
Schedule a Personal Consultation
Dr. Orringer is internationally known for his breast reconstructive experience. To schedule a consultation with double board-certified, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, Dr. Jay Orringer, please call (310) 273-1663. Dr. Orringer welcomes patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Hollywood, Newport Beach, Northern California, nationally and internationally.
