For many women diagnosed with breast cancer, a mastectomy may present the best option to increase their long-term survival chances. After a mastectomy, patients can choose to have a reconstruction breast procedure after other adjuvant treatments have been completed, such as chemotherapy or radiation. Dr. Lori Cherup at Radiance Plastic Surgery prefers this path. There are some recent statistics that show long-term survival may be improved by this path. Some patients who have a mastectomy and do not need chemotherapy or radiation elect to have reconstruction immediately after the mastectomy, especially if they are having bilateral mastectomies.
Breast reconstruction recreates the size and shape of the patient’s natural breast. For some patients, it actually offers a breast profile that is greatly improved.
Dr. Cherup cares deeply about her patients and what they have been through leading up to scheduling a breast reconstruction procedure. Together you will make decisions about the right timing of your reconstruction.
To see before and after images of other breast cancer survivors and their post-reconstruction surgery, visit our online gallery. Schedule your consultation when you’re ready!
Am I Ready for Reconstruction Surgery?
Your oncologic surgeon who performs the mastectomy will suggest to you when to have your reconstruction. A consultation with our Bridgeville plastic surgeon, Dr. Lori Cherup, is very necessary as early in the process as possible to define your health and any risks for surgery it poses. Smoking, being overweight, or multiple medical issues such as hypertension, diabetes, or a need for anticoagulation will affect Dr. Cherup’s decision process regarding timing for you. Your family and job responsibilities — and how much time you are willing to be absent from them — will greatly affect the decision regarding timing and type of reconstruction. Rest assured, you and Dr. Cherup will come to the correct decision for you.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
Breast Flap Reconstruction
Reconstruction using your own tissue is often an excellent choice for patients who have loose abdominal or back skin, need a larger breast created, or could benefit from a tummy tuck. Because this approach uses your natural tissue, recovery takes longer, usually two months or more, and includes a three to six-day hospital stay. Scars are necessary where tissue is taken, typically from the abdomen or back.
Dr. Lori Cherup does not perform “free flap” microsurgeries such as DIEP, SGAP, or free TRAM flaps. These are typically done at university hospitals, and she will gladly refer you if one of these procedures is your best option.
Latissimus Dorsi Flap Surgery
This method is ideal for patients who need a larger breast or additional skin following a mastectomy. Skin and muscle from the upper back are repositioned to the chest to recreate the breast, often combined with a small implant for added volume.
The back scar lies discreetly beneath the bra line, and most patients heal well with a restored, natural shape.
TRAM Flap Reconstruction
A TRAM flap uses skin, fat, and part of the abdominal muscle to reconstruct the breast, providing fullness without implants. It’s best suited for patients with a softer, looser abdomen after pregnancy or weight changes.
Potential complications include temporary anemia (treated with transfusion or iron) or hernia formation at the donor site, which can be repaired later if needed.
Tissue Expander and Implant Reconstruction
Implant-based reconstruction is the most common method in the U.S., offering a quicker recovery and less invasive approach. It’s ideal for patients who:
Using today’s fourth-generation silicone implants, Dr. Cherup can create soft, natural-looking results. The process involves placing a tissue expander beneath the muscle to gently stretch the skin. Over several weeks, the expander is filled until the desired size is reached. Then, it’s replaced with a permanent implant chosen for your body’s proportions and symmetry.
Dr. Cherup uses Allergan and Sientra implants and may combine the procedure with AlloDerm or Strattice for added support and coverage. Most patients find expansion comfortable and appreciate the natural outcome.
Price for Breast Reconstruction in Bridgeville
| Surgery | Surgeons Fee Range | Operating Room Fee Range $ | Anesthesia Fee Range | Appx Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breast Reconstruction* | 5000.00 – 7500.00 | 1400.00 – 2700.00 | 1050.00 – 1400.00 | 7450.00 – 11600.00 |
* = Insurance may cover a portion of the costs
Why Choose Radiance Plastic Surgery for Breast Reconstruction
Choosing Radiance Plastic Surgery for your breast reconstruction means trusting a compassionate team led by Dr. Lori Cherup, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 35 years of reconstructive experience. Dr. Cherup understands that breast reconstruction is not only about restoring physical form but also emotional confidence. She tailors every procedure to your needs—whether you’re recovering from mastectomy, correcting asymmetry, or revising a previous reconstruction—to achieve balance, comfort, and natural-looking results.
At Radiance Plastic Surgery, your safety and well-being are always the top priority. Every surgery is performed in a JCAHO-certified facility, using advanced surgical techniques and technologies to ensure the best outcomes. Dr. Cherup and her caring team guide you through each step of your reconstructive journey with understanding and respect, helping you feel supported and confident as you move forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best option depends on several factors, including your body type, overall health, cancer treatment plan, and personal preferences. Implant-based reconstruction is typically less invasive with a shorter recovery, while flap reconstruction uses your own tissue for a more natural look and feel. Dr. Cherup will help you weigh the pros and cons based on your goals and medical needs.
In most cases, full sensation does not return after reconstruction. However, some patients experience partial sensation over time.
Reconstructed breasts can look very natural, especially with advanced techniques. Flap procedures tend to provide the most natural look and feel since they use your own tissue, while implants can also achieve excellent cosmetic results. Outcomes depend on the method used and individual healing.
Yes, achieving symmetry is a key goal of breast reconstruction. Surgeons may adjust the reconstructed breast and/or perform procedures on the natural breast, such as a lift, reduction, or augmentation, to create a balanced appearance.
If only one breast is reconstructed, Dr. Cherup may recommend a procedure on the opposite breast to improve symmetry. This can include reshaping, lifting, or adjusting size so both breasts look as even as possible.
Recovery time depends on the reconstruction type. Implant-based procedures may require about two to four weeks off work, while flap procedures can require four to eight weeks or more. Dr. Cherup will provide a timeline based on your surgery and job demands.
Yes, this is called delayed reconstruction. Many women choose to have reconstruction months or even years after their mastectomy. The timing typically does not limit your options, though your surgeon will consider factors such as skin condition and prior treatments.
Yes, radiation can affect both the timing and the type of reconstruction. It may increase the risk of complications with implants, so flap reconstruction is often recommended for patients who have had or will need radiation. Dr. Cherup will determine the best approach.
Yes, but timing is important. Reconstruction may be delayed until after chemotherapy or carefully planned around your treatment schedule. Your surgical and oncology teams will coordinate to ensure the safest and most effective plan.
Tissue expanders are usually in place for several weeks to a few months. During this time, they are gradually filled to stretch the skin before being replaced with permanent implants in a second procedure.
Breast implants do not last forever, but they are long-lasting. Many implants last 10-20 years or more without issues. However, they may eventually need to be replaced due to aging, changes in the body, or complications.
Preparation includes following your surgeon’s instructions closely, which may involve stopping smoking, adjusting medications, maintaining a healthy diet, and arranging for help during recovery. You may also need preoperative tests or imaging. Being physically and mentally prepared can help support a smoother recovery.
Feel Like Yourself Again with Breast Reconstruction in Bridgeville, PA
For more information on scheduling your breast reconstruction consultation, contact surgeon Lori L. Cherup M.D. at her main office in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania.
Call Dr. Cherup at 412-220-8181 or use our online form below.
