Breast Reconstruction in Portland Metro Oregon
Breast reconstruction is a surgery that rebuilds the shape of the breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It can restore balance to your chest and help you feel more like yourself again.
Whether you’ve had one breast removed, part of the breast removed, or both, we offer options to rebuild your shape and support your healing—physically and emotionally.
When Can Breast Reconstruction Be Done?
There are two main timing options:
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Immediate reconstruction: This is done at the same time as the mastectomy. It reduces the number of surgeries and may improve final cosmetic results.
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Delayed reconstruction: This happens months or even years later. It’s often chosen if more cancer treatments are needed first, such as chemotherapy or radiation.
We’ll help you choose what’s best for your body, lifestyle, and cancer treatment plan.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
There are two main options for rebuilding the breast:
1. Implant-Based Reconstruction
This is the most common option.
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We place a tissue expander under the skin and muscle during your first surgery.
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Over several weeks, we add fluid in the clinic to slowly stretch the skin.
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Later, the expander is replaced with a permanent breast implant.
This method works well for many patients and typically involves shorter surgery and recovery time than tissue flap surgery.
2. Flap (Autologous) Reconstruction
This option uses your own tissue—often from the belly to back —to create the new breast shape.
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The result may feel softer and more natural.
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It’s a longer surgery with a bit more recovery time but avoids the need for implants.
Some women choose this method because it uses their own body and may offer long-lasting results.
3. Oncologic Breast Reduction
Some patients with larger breasts who need a lumpectomy may be good candidates for an oncologic breast reduction. This combines cancer removal with a breast reduction and lift.
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This approach helps remove the cancer while improving breast shape and comfort.
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It often results in a more balanced and lifted appearance on both sides.
This type of surgery can reduce symptoms like back or shoulder pain, while also supporting cancer treatment goals.
4. Surgery for Symmetry
If only one breast is being reconstructed, we often recommend surgery on the opposite breast to help with balance and symmetry. This may include:
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A breast lift
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A reduction to make the breast smaller
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An augmentation to increase volume
Symmetry procedures are usually done at the same time or shortly after your main reconstruction surgery. These are commonly covered by insurance as part of breast reconstruction.
Recovery and Follow-Up
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Most patients go home the same day or the next day after surgery.
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Expect some swelling, bruising, and tiredness in the first week.
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We’ll see you in the clinic often during the first few weeks to check healing or adjust tissue expanders.
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Light activity can usually resume in 1–2 weeks.
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Full recovery may take 4–8 weeks depending on the type of reconstruction.
Our team is here to guide you through each step of the healing process.
Compassionate, Personalized Care
At Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic, we understand that breast reconstruction is not just physical—it’s emotional. Dr. Tina Jenq offers personalized options to support your recovery and help you feel whole again.
