Reconstructing You
We often hear women speak in terms of “my cancer,” a subtle acknowledgement of the personal sense of betrayal by a woman’s own body. Sometimes there’s a feeling that a woman is redefined by “her cancer.” Often there is a sense of a diminished self – a fear of a lessening of womanhood, of femininity, of attractiveness.
It is an extremely personal sense of self that the breast cancer alters. But we can help restore what the cancer claimed.
It is our goal to restore a natural look and promote your re-definition, without cancer as the center of your view of yourself. It is our goal to restore your personal confidence in your self-image.
Our Experience
At Associated Plastic Surgeons of Kansas City, you’ll receive deeply personal care.
We will listen to your questions and concerns; we will explain medical terms and techniques clearly and openly.
In every surgery, there are risks, benefits and trade-offs. We consult with you and offer our expert guidance as you make your choices.
We want to understand not only your physical health considerations before surgery, but we also will help you prepare for the changes the reconstruction will offer.
Our Expertise
Breast reconstruction is a highly individualized procedure. Techniques offer varying advantages and disadvantages. Reconstruction with implants and or flaps should be considered.
Implants are widely used for breast reconstruction. They limit scars to the breast area. An implant reconstruction usually involves two surgeries. Generally this offers a faster recovery with less risks than flap procedures. It is mostly used in patients who have not had radiation and are comfortable with implants.
Flaps are used to move tissue from one area of the body to another. The two flaps used for breast reconstruction are from the back (latissimus flap) and from the abdomen (TRAM flap).
Sometimes it is necessary to have surgery on the non cancer breast to provide symmetry.
One of the most positive approaches to reconstruction is through the use of a sophisticated technique called TRAM flap surgery. Associated Plastic Surgeons of Kansas City has established a unique proficiency in this surgery – in the Kansas City region, only one other facility is capable of performing TRAM procedures.
This complex TRAM flap procedure (it stands for “transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous flap”) uses muscle, fat, tissue and skin harvested from the abdomen and positioned to reconstruct the breast. The arteries and veins in the tissue and muscle are microscopically attached in a highly technical process – this close work requires two collaborating surgeons and produces a greater chance for positive outcome.
We perform this delicate work with the utmost attention to quality. We never forget the personal impact you face in fighting cancer and healing yourself; we are honored to be engaged in helping you succeed in your quest.
What Our Patients Say…
“There aren’t enough words to thank you for all you’ve done for me. A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming with all the decisions and unknowns. I will always remember our first appointment when you so patiently explained my options and answered my seemingly endless questions about reconstruction.
Your compassion and knowledge calmed my fears and gave me hope. And as time went on, your surgical expertise – “assembly,” as you referred to it – gave me a sense of being physically “normal” once again.”
“I am so impressed and pleased with the results, and couldn’t be more satisfied.
I never minded waiting my turn at appointments because I knew you were taking the time to provide the same empathy and respect that you showed me to yet another new patient who would soon discover what a gem of a surgeon they had.
Your skill, calm demeanor, good natured personality and kindness carried me through this phase of my journey. I am eternally grateful! Quite simply, thank you. Please continue your commitment to helping breast cancer patients restore their appearance. The world needs more physicians like you.”
“I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the excellence in service I have received from not only you but your nurses and staff.
The care and consideration I have received from the beginning of this journey to the end has been remarkable.
I appreciate most your skill, honesty and ability to make me feel comfortable and understood.”
Dear APS Staff, thank you for your outstanding professionalism during my breast cancer reconstruction process the past year. I appreciate so much your expertise, efficiency and respect through every appointment and procedure. Your kindness was welcome during a very trying period of my life. Thanks for making a difference.
