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Breast Reconstruction

Dr. Keith trained under some of the foremost names in breast reconstruction surgery.  Following their example, Dr. Keith educates the next generation of surgeons in his cutting edge techniques in autologous and implant-based breast reconstruction.

He values his role as surgeon and teacher and utilizes his knowledge and skill to recreate the aesthetic ideal in breast reconstruction.

Autologous Breast Reconstruction

 

Refers to using tissue from your own body to recreate the breast after removal of the breast.  As a Kroll Fellow, Dr. Keith was privileged to train with Dr. Philip Blondeel, the world-renowned pioneer in the Deep Inferior Epigastric Flap (DIEP).  In this procedure, skin and fat from the abdomen is transplanted to the chest with microsurgical techniques and molded into the form of a breast. Dr. Keith continues to explore and improve this technique to achieve lasting, beautiful breast reconstruction for his patients.

FAQs DIEP procedure:

 

Where does the tissue come from?

  • The lower abdomen between the belly button and pelvis

How long does it take; How long in the hospital?

  • 6-12 hours depending on unilateral vs bilateral; 3-4 nights in the hospital

How long is recovery?

  • 2-3 weeks before drains removed, off pain medication, feeling better;  4-6 weeks before back to work

What are the potential complications?

  • Rarely, the blood supply to the transplanted tissue is injured and will require reoperation in the first 1-2 days after surgery (<5% of patients)

  • More commonly, a small wound along the incision will develop and require dressings and time to heal

How long will it last?

  • Once healed, it will last forever as the tissue is your own without any prosthetic material

 

Please consult with Dr. Keith regarding specific concerns

Implant Based Reconstruction 

For some patients, there is a lack of tissue to recreate the breast or the patient may not wish to undergo a large operation.  As such, some patients may elect to reconstruct the breast with a prosthetic implant.  There are a wide range of options and Dr. Keith is an expert in this arena.

Breast Implants:

  • In reconstruction: Most common implants used are silicone based

  • Saline implants also available

 

Please discuss with Dr. Keith your preferences and pros and cons of each.

Breast Reconstruction Revision

Some patients are dissatisfied with their result following breast reconstruction.  Dr. Keith has worked to improve techniques to improve these reconstrucitons and published peer-reviewed work on the topic.

Common problems that can be addressed by revision surgery:

  • Capsular Contracture and Implant Malposition

  • Animation Deformity

  • Fat Necrosis

  • Asymmetry

  • Poor cosmetic result

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