Breast reconstruction rebuilds the breast mound using implants, the patient’s own tissue, or a combination of both. The procedure is coordinated with the oncology team and can begin at the time of mastectomy or after cancer treatment is complete. The right approach depends on cancer treatment requirements, radiation history, body type, and personal preferences.
Reconstruction options include:
Some patients seek reconstruction after a prior attempt produced unsatisfactory results, or after delayed healing from radiation therapy. Dr. Johnson reviews prior surgical history and develops a revised plan to improve shape, symmetry, and overall outcome. Learn more about implant revision as part of a secondary reconstruction plan.
|
Filler Type |
Common Brands |
Best For |
Longevity |
|
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) |
Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero |
Lips, tear troughs, cheeks, folds |
6–18 months |
|
Calcium Hydroxylapatite |
Radiesse |
Jawline, cheeks, deep folds, hands |
12–18 months |
|
Poly-L-Lactic Acid |
Sculptra |
Gradual volume restoration, overall rejuvenation |
2+ years |
|
PMMA |
Bellafill |
Deep folds, acne scarring |
Semi-permanent |
Reconstruction restores the breast contour removed by mastectomy, helping patients feel proportionate and balanced in clothing, swimwear, and everyday life.
When timing allows, immediate reconstruction means patients wake from cancer surgery with a breast mound already in place, avoiding the experience of living without a breast between procedures.
Every reconstruction plan is tailored to the patient's body type, skin quality, radiation history, and goals. Dr. Johnson's approach prioritizes results that look and feel natural rather than overly constructed.
Reconstruction eliminates the ongoing need for external breast forms, providing a permanent, integrated result patients do not have to manage each day.
Many patients find that reconstruction plays a meaningful role in their recovery from cancer treatment. Feeling physically whole again supports confidence, body image, and overall quality of life.
During the consultation, Dr. Johnson reviews the patient’s oncology history, mastectomy details, radiation treatment (past or planned), and overall health to determine the safest and most effective reconstruction approach. He evaluates skin quality, body proportions, and the condition of remaining tissue to guide technique selection. For patients planning mastectomy, early coordination with the breast surgeon allows immediate reconstruction timing to be established in advance.
The consultation is the right time to:
Reconstruction of one breast often prompts patients to address the opposite side for a balanced outcome. Procedures including breast lift or breast reduction can be performed concurrently or in a staged approach, depending on the patient’s treatment timeline and health.
Patients who have previously undergone implant-based reconstruction may seek implant revision to address changes in shape, implant position, or soft tissue coverage over time. Dr. Johnson evaluates the prior reconstruction and develops a plan to improve the result.
Recovery after breast reconstruction varies depending on the technique used and the individual patient. Implant-based procedures generally involve a shorter initial recovery, while autologous flap procedures require healing at both the chest and donor site. Most patients return to light activity within a few weeks and resume fuller activity over one to two months.
Typical breast reconstruction recovery milestones:
The cost of breast reconstruction in Dallas varies based on the individual patient’s anatomy, technique selection, and surgical plan. Dr. Johnson provides specific pricing recommendations during the consultation after a thorough assessment.
Cost factors include:
Dr. Bret Johnson combines advanced surgical training with dedicated reconstructive expertise, helping patients achieve results that restore both appearance and confidence after cancer treatment.
Dr. Johnson works directly with each patient's oncology team to align reconstruction timing with the cancer treatment plan. Every recommendation is built around the patient's medical history, anatomy, and personal goals rather than a standardized approach.
The goal of reconstruction is restoration. Dr. Johnson focuses on outcomes that feel balanced, natural, and personally meaningful to each patient, not just technically complete.
Dr. Johnson offers the complete spectrum of reconstructive approaches, from implant-based procedures to microsurgical autologous flap techniques, allowing him to recommend the method best suited to each patient's body and treatment history. Explore all available breast procedures to understand the full range of options.
Breast reconstruction can be performed immediately at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or months to years later (delayed reconstruction). The right timing depends on the cancer treatment plan, whether radiation is required, and the patient's overall health. Dr. Johnson discusses timing options during the consultation and coordinates closely with the oncology team.
Under the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act, health insurers that cover mastectomy are required to cover breast reconstruction as well. This includes reconstruction of the treated breast, symmetry procedures for the opposite breast, and prostheses. Coverage specifics vary by plan, so it is important to verify benefits before scheduling surgery.
Implant-based reconstruction uses a tissue expander followed by a permanent silicone or saline implant to rebuild the breast mound. Autologous reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue, typically from the abdomen or back, to create a natural breast shape without a synthetic implant. Each approach has distinct trade-offs in recovery, scarring, feel, and long-term durability that Dr. Johnson reviews in detail during the consultation.
Sensation changes after mastectomy and reconstruction vary by patient and technique. Many patients experience reduced or altered sensation in the reconstructed breast, particularly following mastectomy. Some nerve regeneration can occur over time, but outcomes vary by individual. Dr. Johnson discusses realistic expectations regarding sensation during the consultation.
Operative time depends on the technique selected. Implant-based reconstruction with tissue expander placement typically takes one to two hours. Autologous flap procedures, particularly microsurgical techniques like the DIEP flap, can take four to eight hours or more. Staged procedures involve separate surgical appointments, which Dr. Johnson outlines during the consultation.
Nipple and areola reconstruction is an optional final step that many patients choose to complete the reconstruction process. It is typically performed as a separate outpatient procedure once the breast mound has fully settled. Medical tattooing is another option for recreating the areola. Dr. Johnson reviews both approaches during the consultation.
Yes, though radiation affects technique selection. Radiated tissue has reduced healing capacity, which can increase the risk of complications with implant-based reconstruction. Autologous flap procedures are often preferred for patients who have received radiation because transferred tissue is healthier and more resilient. Dr. Johnson evaluates radiation history carefully when developing a reconstruction plan.
Scarring depends on the reconstruction technique used. Implant-based reconstruction typically produces scars along the mastectomy incision line. Autologous flap procedures create additional scars at the donor site, such as the lower abdomen or upper back. Dr. Johnson discusses incision placement and scar management strategies during the consultation so patients know what to expect.
The number of procedures varies by technique and individual goals. Implant-based reconstruction often involves two stages: tissue expander placement followed by implant exchange. Autologous flap reconstruction may be completed in one stage, though refinements or nipple reconstruction may require additional procedures. Dr. Johnson outlines the full planned sequence during the consultation.
Contact Dr. Bret Johnson's Dallas office by calling 469-250-9065 or by completing the form below. The consultation is the first step toward building a personalized reconstruction plan based on your medical history, anatomy, and goals.
Have questions? Ready to take the next step? Contact us to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Johnson. We’ll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and help you achieve a refreshed, youthful look.