What is Direct-to-Implant Reconstruction?

Direct-to-implant reconstruction, also known as “one-step” reconstruction, involves placing a breast implant immediately after mastectomy. The mastectomy is performed to spare the breast skin and when possible, the nipple structure. The implant is carefully positioned during the same surgery as the mastectomy, allowing patients to wake up with a reconstructed breast, minimizing the number of surgeries required.

What is the Procedure?

During your direct-to-implant breast reconstruction in Denver, Dr. Cohen collaborates closely with the surgical oncologist to ensure seamless coordination during the mastectomy. After the breast tissue is removed, the permanent implant is placed either beneath the chest muscle or, in some cases, above it, depending on the patient’s anatomy and preferences. Dr. Cohen uses advanced surgical techniques to ensure the implant is securely positioned, resulting in a natural-looking and symmetrical breast.

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What Are the Benefits?

Women who choose direct-to-implant reconstruction experience several key advantages, including:

  • No Need for Tissue Expanders: The process skips the lengthy tissue expansion stage, streamlining your journey.
  • Immediate Breast Restoration: Patients wake up from surgery with their breast shape already restored, offering a significant psychological boost.
  • Single Surgical Procedure: Only one surgery is required, reducing the overall time and stress associated with reconstruction.
  • Natural and Symmetrical Results: When performed by our skilled surgeons, the outcomes are designed to be natural-looking and well-balanced.
  • Minimal Incisions and Scarring: The procedure leaves fewer scars in most cases.
  • Confidence in Your Appearance: Feel comfortable and confident wearing swimsuits and low-cut clothing, knowing your results are aesthetically pleasing.

Who is a Candidate?

Direct-to-implant reconstruction is suitable for patients who are candidates for immediate reconstruction and do not require additional treatments, such as radiation, that could affect the healing process. This procedure may be ideal for women with sufficient skin and tissue to accommodate the implant. 

What is the Recovery?

Recovery from direct-to-implant reconstruction is generally quicker than staged reconstruction methods, as it involves only one major surgery. Most patients can expect to return to normal activities within a few weeks, though strenuous activities should be avoided for 6-8 weeks. Dr. Cohen will provide personalized post-operative care instructions to support a smooth and successful recovery.

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Why Choose Us?

Choosing Dr. Cohen for your direct-to-implant reconstruction in Denver means you will be under the care of a breast reconstruction surgeon who has performed over two thousand procedures. He offers exceptional technical skill, experience, and dedication. Dr. Cohen is one of the few plastic surgeons in the region who offer comprehensive breast reconstruction care with familiarity in all possible surgical options. This is why he was previously selected to educate and mentor future plastic surgeons at all levels. His Ivy League education and advanced training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery make him a leader in the field. 

Concierge, Personalized Care for the Journey to Breast Reconstruction

Dr. Cohen’s boutique concierge practice is designed to offer personalized, compassionate care. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to doing what is right for each patient. Dr. Cohen’s deep understanding of the challenges faced by breast cancer patients ensures that he provides not only technically superior results but also the emotional support needed throughout the reconstruction journey. When you choose Dr. Cohen, you are choosing a surgeon who prioritizes your well-being, delivering natural-looking restored breasts that you will have when you awaken from the mastectomy surgery.

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How does direct-to-implant reconstruction differ from other types of breast reconstruction?

Direct-to-implant reconstruction involves placing the final implant immediately after mastectomy without the need for a tissue expander.

Is direct-to-implant reconstruction suitable for all patients?

Not all patients are candidates for direct-to-implant reconstruction. It is typically recommended for those who do not require radiation therapy, want to maintain the same size and appearance, and those who are candidates for nipple and skin-sparing mastectomies.

What type of implant is used in direct-to-implant reconstruction?

Both saline and silicone implants can be used in direct-to-implant reconstruction. Dr. Cohen will discuss the options with you to determine the best choice based on your goals and anatomy.

What can I expect in terms of recovery time?

Most patients can return to light activities within a few weeks, gradually returning to all their usual activities as healing progresses. Dr. Cohen will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. At the end of the healing process, we fully expect our patients to return to all aspects of their lives without interference.

Are there risks associated with direct-to-implant reconstruction?

As with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, implant displacement, capsular contracture, and complications related to healing. Dr. Cohen will discuss these risks with you and take steps to minimize them.

Will the results look natural?

Dr. Cohen uses advanced techniques to ensure that the results of direct-to-implant reconstruction are as natural-looking as possible, focusing on symmetry and proportion.

Does insurance cover direct-to-implant reconstruction?

Most insurance plans cover direct-to-implant reconstruction as part of breast cancer treatment. Our office will work with your insurance provider to ensure coverage.

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