Sometimes we find ourselves wanting to improve a certain area of our body. Making changes to our appearance can provide us with better self-esteem and confidence. Dr. Kirk A. Churukian MD, FACS is board-certified from the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, California Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the San Jose Surgical Society. Through this membership and more than 20 years of experience, you can depend on Dr. Chrukian to bring surgical attunement and an aesthetic that gives patients relief from the turmoil of body insecurity. If you are interested in San Jose, CA breast reconstruction surgery or another service, he is ready to help you today!
What To Know About Breast Reconstruction
Every person deserves to feel happy and beautiful with their body. If you feel that breast reconstruction surgery may be right for you, then consider speaking with our office today for more information. Whether you are looking for revision augmentation, implants, nipple surgery, repair implants, or something else, you can trust in our care. We use both an artistic eye and technical skill to get you the best outcomes possible. When it comes to San Jose breast reconstruction surgery, here are some facts to know:
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- If you want breast implants, there are different styles available to you, such as gel implants (gummy bear), anatomical shape implants (teardrop), high profile implants, the Ideal implant, low profile implants, and moderate profile implants.
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- If you have overly large breasts, breast reconstruction can reduce significant strain on the neck and shoulders, alleviating pain and discomfort while also improving the size, contour, and shape of the breast.
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- If you are someone with a hereditary disorder such as gynecomastia, Dr. Churukian can correct this condition so that you are more comfortable partaking in beach or swimming activities.
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- If you want a more natural and softer saline implant, we do have the Ideal implant, which offers a natural breast texture.
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- If you are desiring more volume after pregnancy, aging, or weight loss, augmentation offers a solution by restoring fullness and enhancing overall appearance.
Dr. Kirk A. Churukian
In addition to his private cosmetic practice, Dr. Kirk A. Churukian is a trauma specialist for local hospitals. He focuses on complex reconstructive surgery, breast procedures for cancer survivors, and facial restoration. He is committed to mentoring the next generation of doctors who want to make a positive difference for people. He serves as clinical assistant professor at Stanford University in the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery department. If you are interested in learning more about his procedures of the body, breast, skin, and face, then contact us as soon as you can. We understand that you may have an ideal body in mind. Let us help make that a reality for you by scheduling an consultation appointment for San Jose breast reconstruction surgery or another procedure. We are ready to assist you!
Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures We Offer
Breast reconstruction surgery is a deeply personal decision, and understanding the available options helps patients make informed choices alongside their surgical team. At Dr. Churukian’s practice, the approach prioritizes individualized care for every patient considering breast reconstruction surgery in San Jose, CA.
- Implant-Based Reconstruction: This is one of the most common approaches, using saline or silicone implants to rebuild the breast mound. It is often performed in one or two stages and is well-suited for patients who prefer a shorter recovery or have limited donor tissue.
- TRAM Flap Reconstruction: The transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap uses tissue from the lower abdomen to recreate the breast. This technique is typically considered when patients want a more natural result using their own body tissue.
- DIEP Flap Reconstruction: The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is a muscle-sparing procedure that uses abdominal skin and fat without sacrificing the underlying muscle. It is often preferred for patients who want a natural outcome with reduced impact on core strength.
- Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction: Tissue from the upper back is used to form the new breast, sometimes paired with an implant. This option works well when chest skin or tissue has been affected by radiation therapy.
- SGAP and IGAP Flap Reconstruction: These procedures use tissue from the gluteal region and are considered when abdominal donor sites are not available or suitable. They require advanced microsurgical technique and are tailored to specific patient anatomy.
- Immediate Reconstruction: Performed at the same time as a mastectomy, this approach allows patients to wake up with a reconstructed breast already in place. It can reduce the psychological impact of breast loss and often simplifies the overall surgical process.
- Delayed Reconstruction: This option is performed weeks, months, or even years after a mastectomy. It may be recommended for patients undergoing radiation therapy or those who need time before committing to reconstruction.
- Nipple and Areola Reconstruction: Often the final step in the reconstruction process, this procedure recreates the nipple-areola complex through local tissue rearrangement or tattooing. It helps complete the overall aesthetic result and restore a sense of wholeness for many patients.
- Tissue Expander Placement: A temporary expander is placed beneath the chest muscle and gradually filled over time to stretch the skin before a permanent implant is inserted. This staged approach gives the surgical team greater control over the final breast shape and size.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast reconstruction rates following mastectomy have continued to rise, reflecting greater patient access to information and improved surgical techniques.
Choosing the right breast reconstruction method depends on medical history, body type, cancer treatment plan, and personal goals. If you are exploring your options for breast reconstruction in San Jose, reaching out to a board-certified plastic surgeon is a practical first step toward understanding which approach fits your situation.