Hybrid Breast Reconstruction

Hybrid breast reconstruction is a surgical technique that combines the use of both autologous tissue (tissue from the patient’s own body) and a breast implant to reconstruct the breast after a mastectomy. This approach is designed to leverage the benefits of both methods: the natural look and feel of the patient’s own tissue, combined with the added volume and shape provided by an implant. Hybrid reconstruction is often chosen by patients who may not have enough donor tissue to create the desired breast size or by those who want a more customized and natural outcome.

In this procedure, a flap of tissue, commonly from the abdomen (such as in a DIEP flap) or another donor site, is used to provide a natural foundation for the breast. A smaller-sized implant is then placed to achieve the desired breast volume and contour. This combination allows for a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing result, particularly in cases where the tissue alone would not provide sufficient volume.

 

Hybrid Breast Reconstruction | Benefits:

  • Natural Look and Feel: The use of the patient’s own tissue helps create a breast that feels more natural, with the implant enhancing the shape and volume.
  • Customizable Results: The combination of tissue and implant allows for more precise control over the final breast size and shape, which can be tailored to the patient’s preferences.
  • Reduced Implant-Related Risks: Since a smaller implant is used, there may be a lower risk of complications typically associated with larger implants, such as capsular contracture.
  • Longer-Lasting Results: The natural tissue component ages with the body, which can provide more durable and stable results over time.

 

Risks:

  • Complex Surgery: Hybrid reconstruction is more complex than using either tissue or implants alone, requiring expertise in both microsurgery and implant placement.  Hybrid breast reconstruction typically takes 6-8 hours to perform.
  • Longer Recovery: The procedure involves both the transfer of tissue from a donor site and the placement of an implant, which may result in a longer recovery period and more post-operative discomfort.
  • Multiple Surgical Sites: Patients will have scars at both the donor site (such as the abdomen) and the breast reconstruction site, potentially leading to more extensive scarring.
  • Potential for Complications: As with any reconstructive surgery, there are risks of infection, flap failure, implant-related issues, and poor wound healing.
  • Surgeon Availability: This technique requires a surgeon with specialized skills in both autologous tissue reconstruction and implant-based reconstruction, which may limit availability.

 

Hybrid breast reconstruction is an excellent option for patients seeking a natural look and feel with added volume and shape provided by an implant. It offers a versatile approach, combining the strengths of both autologous tissue and implants, to achieve a highly personalized and aesthetically pleasing result.

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There aren't enough good words to describe Dr. Jablonka. He's the absolute best. He's kind, caring, and talented. I came to him broken after my double mastectomy reconstruction was a bust. He put me back together. Brought back my self-esteem. Gave me my life back. Love, love, love him and his amazing support staff.

V. Frey

Dr. Jablonka is hands down the absolute best doctor I’ve ever had. He is caring, compassionate and really takes his time with his patients. I had complicated breast reconstruction surgery after a double mastectomy. And of course I had complications while recuperating. So it required a couple more surgeries. Dr. Jablonka did an amazing job and was right by my side the entire time. He is a very skilled plastic surgeon. I highly, highly recommend. I give him 10 stars out of 5!!!

L. Alt

Dr. Jablonka is an amazing surgeon. During my consultation for DIEP I knew within minutes that he was the surgeon for me. Not only did he have all the education and experience he was also very easy to talk to and took the time to thoroughly explain the procedure and answer all of my questions. Listening to him explain the DIEP flap procedure I instantly knew that not only was this his profession, but truly his passion. I am now almost 3 months post-op and so happy with my results. My breasts look natural and they are made with my tissue. I am beyond grateful to Dr. Jablonka and his incredible team for making one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done so much easier. If you have to have breast reconstruction for preventative reasons or because of a breast cancer diagnosis I highly recommend Dr. Jablonka.

T. Walker

Dr Jablonka is a phenomenal surgeon and he truly cares for his patients. I had a breast reconstruction with DIEP flap post prophylactic double mastectomy from 12 years prior. He removed the old implants using my own fat and placing them above the pectoral muscle not under like before. The look and the feel is so natural. I don’t have that constant tightness and hardness in my breasts. I feel and look normal again. He has been very kind throughout the process. He explained everything patiently every time. His staff Elizabeth and his nurse Stephanie were always there for me as well helping every step of the way. The front desk receptionist (I can’t recall her name) and every one else there that I came in contact with was kind polite and attentive. Everybody at the office took great care of me. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart!

S. Leitner

Being diagnosed with breast cancer at 37 was H.A.R.D. Having a double mastectomy burned even more. Losing one expander and being flat for months was the icing on the cake. Then I was referred to Dr. Jablonka as a DIEP Flap candidate. I knew from the first time I met Dr. Jablonka that he was amazing. He was very thorough and took all the time in the world to explain to myself and to my husband what the process would be and answered all of our questions. His staff is top notch and just as sweet as they come. There are no words to adequately express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Jablonka and his team for giving me confidence back and making me a proud survivor!

J. Weeks