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Reconstructive Surgery |
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The two main types of reconstructive surgery performed by Dr. Stokes are Breast Reconstruction and Breast Reduction. Breast Reconstruction Breast Reconstruction can be a vital part of returning to normal life after undergoing a mastectomy for breast cancer. Reconstruction can be done in a number of ways, either using implants or the patient's own tissue. A Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous (TRAM) flap is a unique way of performing a breast reconstruction using only the patient's tissue. The muscle of the abdomen, fat, and skin all are molded into the shape of a mound. A side effect of the operation is that the patient receives a "tummy tuck" as the abdominal tissue is removed. Nipple and areolar reconstruction are typically done a few months after the mound is created. This is a simple procedure, usually performed in the office. The nipple is made from flaps of skin on the mound, and the areola is a tattoo.
Breast Reduction Breast Reduction surgery is typically indicated when a woman's breasts are disproportionately large for her frame. This can lead to a number of physical impairments including back and shoulder pain, notching of the shoulders from bra straps, and rashes on the undersurface of the breast. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in the hospital, where the patient typically spends 1-2 nights. Most patients resume most activities in 2-4 weeks and resume full physical activities in 4-6 weeks.
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