Breast Reconstruction

Roslyn Heights, NY

Introduction

Breast Reconstruction Services Offered in Long Island and Roslyn Heights, NY

Studies show that breast reconstruction after a mastectomy dramatically improves the quality of life in most women. At Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island, in Roslyn Heights, Long Island, New York, skilled plastic surgeons Sotirios Papafragkou, MD, FACS, and Susie Rhee, MD, can reconstruct breasts that are very close to your own natural breasts after your surgery. To learn more about breast reconstruction, call the office or click on the online booking link now.

We are a Plastic Surgery center and offer Breast Reduction, Tummy Tuck, and Mommy Makeover services. Call us to book your appointment today.

Our team at Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island (PSAOLI) proudly serves patients throughout Long Island, including Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Garden City, and Manhasset, NY.

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What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to rebuild one or both of your breasts following breast removal (mastectomy) or partial removal (lumpectomy). You can have a breast reconstruction procedure either immediately after your surgery or at a later time (delayed reconstruction). Breast reconstruction can be a life-changing procedure for women who have a mastectomy or lumpectomy due to cancer. The surgery can help you to look better, feel more self-confident, and even fit into your clothes just like you did before losing your breasts.

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What Are The Breast Reconstruction Options?

There are two general categories of breast reconstruction, including:

In an implant-based breast reconstruction, silicone gel or saline implants create a new breast mound. In some ways, this is similar to a breast augmentation because the process involves implants. But, implant-based breast reconstruction is a more complex procedure than a standard breast augmentation.

Is Breast Reconstruction Right For Me?

Breast reconstruction is a very personal decision. Breast reconstruction isn’t required for health reasons, but many women choose this surgery to boost their self-esteem, outlook, and quality of life after a mastectomy or lumpectomy.

You could be a good candidate for this type of surgery if you don’t have any other medical conditions (aside from cancer) and if you feel optimistic about restoring your body image.

Good candidates for breast reconstruction also have realistic expectations. Breast reconstruction surgery can give you very natural-looking breasts, but it can’t duplicate the exact feel of natural breasts. And, you should expect some scarring after the procedure. If you opt for flap reconstruction, you’ll also have a scar at the donor site.

To learn more about breast reconstruction surgery, call Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island or click the provided link now.

What Are the Benefits of a Breast Reconstruction?

For many women, reconstructing the breast after mastectomy or lumpectomy plays a critical role in emotional healing and recovery following cancer treatment. Restoring the breast mound can help patients regain a sense of wholeness, femininity, and confidence during a time when much of their body may feel unfamiliar or altered. Numerous studies have shown that women who undergo breast reconstruction often report improved self-esteem, body image, and overall quality of life.

From a physical standpoint, breast reconstruction helps restore balance and symmetry to the chest, which can improve posture and make clothing fit more naturally. Reconstruction can be performed to closely match the size, shape, and contour of the remaining natural breast when only one breast is affected, or to create symmetry when both breasts are reconstructed.

First Step
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What’s the First Step?

At our Long Island practice, Dr. Papafragkou or Dr. Rhee will take time to understand your cancer diagnosis, surgical history, and any ongoing or planned treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. These factors are critical in determining the safest timing and most appropriate reconstruction method.

A thorough physical examination is performed to assess the chest wall, skin quality, remaining breast tissue, and potential donor sites for flap reconstruction. Imaging studies and coordination with your breast surgeon or oncologist may also be part of the planning process. This consultation is designed to be informative and supportive, allowing patients to understand all available options, expected timelines, and the stages involved in reconstruction before making any decisions.

First Step

What to Expect on the Day of a Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction surgery on Long Island is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility or hospital. On the day of surgery, patients arrive having followed all preoperative instructions, including fasting and medication guidelines. The surgical plan is reviewed one final time to ensure clarity and comfort.

The procedure itself varies significantly depending on whether implant-based or flap reconstruction is being performed. Implant-based reconstruction may involve placement of a tissue expander or implant, while flap reconstruction involves transferring tissue from another part of the body to create a new breast mound. Because reconstruction often occurs in stages, the initial surgery focuses on establishing breast shape and volume. After surgery, patients are closely monitored in recovery before being admitted or discharged based on the complexity of the procedure.

Dr. Papafragkou, wearing a blue surgical gown, a black scrub cap, a medical mask, and glasses, looks downward with focus while performing a procedure.
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Breast Reconstruction Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Breast Reconstruction Care

Recovery from breast reconstruction is a gradual and carefully monitored process. The length and intensity of recovery depend on the type of reconstruction performed and whether the procedure was immediate or delayed. Patients commonly experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and fatigue in the early postoperative period, all of which improve over time.

For implant-based reconstruction, most patients can resume light activities within a few weeks, while flap reconstruction may require a longer recovery due to healing at both the chest and donor site. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing, manage drains if present, and guide patients through activity restrictions. Full recovery and final results may take several months, especially when reconstruction is completed in stages.

Plastic Surgery Associates - Long Island - Susie Rhee M.D. & Sotirios Papafragkou M.D. Logo

How Much Does a Breast Reconstruction Cost in Long Island, NY?

The cost of breast reconstruction on Long Island varies based on the procedure’s complexity, the reconstruction method, the number of surgical stages, and hospital or facility fees. Unlike cosmetic breast surgery, breast reconstruction following mastectomy is typically covered by insurance under federal law, including the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act.

During your consultation, the administrative team at Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island will verify your insurance coverage and explain which aspects of the procedure are included. Patients receive clear guidance on financial expectations, allowing them to focus on recovery rather than cost concerns.

Why Choose Us?

At Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island, our esteemed triple-board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Sotirios Papafragkou, FACS, and Dr. Susie Ree, provide personalized care, natural-looking results, and a seamless treatment process for patients in Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Garden City, Manhasset, and throughout Long Island.

Dr. P has mastered a broad array of surgical and non-surgical solutions to help patients attain the youthful, energized look they desire. He works with the latest cutting-edge techniques to minimize downtime while enhancing comfort and safety. Dr. Papafragkou is credentialed by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and the Aesthetic Society (ASAPS) and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

Dr. Susie Rhee, M.D., is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving patients throughout Long Island, NY. As a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The Aesthetic Society, and the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF), Dr. Rhee is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, education, and surgical excellence. She brings extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, as well as in non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments that deliver natural, long-lasting results.

Breast Reconstruction FAQ’S

Schedule a Consultation

Personalized Care from Two Dedicated Surgeons

If you are considering breast reconstruction or would like to explore your options after mastectomy or lumpectomy, scheduling a consultation is the first step. Appointments can be made by calling the office or using the online scheduling tool.