Breast Reconstruction (Implant Based)
Breast Reconstruction in San Antonio with Dr. Rokosz
If you’re facing or have already gone through a mastectomy, it’s natural to wonder what comes next. At Texas Plastic Surgery, Dr. Jennifer Rokosz offers implant-based breast reconstruction in San Antonio to help women restore their shape, confidence, and sense of self after mastectomy or breast surgery.
While not every woman chooses reconstruction, many find it helps them move forward after treatment feeling more like themselves again. Dr. Rokosz provides expert, compassionate care to help you understand your options and feel supported in your decision-making process.
BREAST SURGERY PROCEDURES
What Is Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction?
Dr. Rokosz will walk you through the different choices to make regarding breast augmentation based on your anatomy and goals.
Tissue Expander Placement
A temporary device is placed to gradually stretch the skin and muscle
Implant Exchange Surgery
The expander is replaced with a permanent silicone or saline breast implant to restore natural breast contour.
While microsurgical breast reconstruction (such as DIEP flap procedures) can also be an excellent option for some patients, these highly specialized surgeries are best performed by large, teams in academic or major cancer centers and for this reason, Dr. Rokosz does not offer microsurgical reconstruction. She is happy to discuss all available techniques to help you decide and refer you to trusted specialists if needed.
Benefits of Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Dr. Rokosz works closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that matches your body, goals, and cancer treatment timeline. Implant-based reconstruction offers several advantages, including:
Restoring breast shape and balance after mastectomy
Shorter surgery and faster recovery than tissue-based options
No additional scars on other areas like the abdomen or back
Covered by most health insurance plans
Am I a Good Candidate for an Implant Based Breast Reconstruction?
Dr. Rokosz works closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that matches your body, goals, and cancer treatment timeline. Implant-based reconstruction offers several advantages, including:
Have had or will be having a mastectomy or lumpectomy
Want to restore your breast shape with implants
Are in good overall health and ready for surgery
Prefer a shorter recovery than flap-based reconstruction
Understand the staged nature of implant reconstruction
The Breast Reconstruction Process
The implant-based reconstruction journey typically involves two stages:
Stage One
Tissue Expander Placement
A tissue expander is inserted above or below the chest muscle
Drains are placed at the time of surgery and removed after 1-3 weeks
Stage TWO
Implant Exchange Surgery
The expander is replaced with a permanent implant
Silicone or saline implants based on your preference
Can also involve liposuction and fat grafting to the breasts to smooth the appearance of the implants
History of radiation or plans for radiation may change the reconstruction plan. Dr. Rokosz will guide you through every step and coordinate care with your oncology team to ensure optimal timing and outcomes.
Before & After Photos
Explore real patient transformations to see how implant-based breast reconstruction can restore natural-looking breast shape and symmetry.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery varies depending on the timing and type of reconstruction but typically includes:
Immediately after surgery
Patients will experience swelling and bruising. Arm movements and activities will be restricted. Pain is managed with medications, and patients typically wear a support bra 24/7 except showering.
Week 1-2
Swelling and bruising improves. Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities by 2 weeks. Drain removal in 1-3 weeks after first stage.
Week 3-6
Increased arm mobility but no lifting, pushing, or pulling greater than 10 lbs. Weekly or every other week visits to fill tissue expander until desired size is reached.
Month 3+
Similar recovery but generally easier than first stage with no drains.
Dr. Rokosz will provide personalized after-care instructions and schedule regular follow-ups to ensure your comfort and progress.
Does Breast Reconstruction Result in Scars?
Most reconstruction scars follow the same pattern as your mastectomy. Dr. Rokosz uses careful techniques to make scars as discreet as possible and provides guidance on scar care to help improve their appearance over time.
Breast Reconstruction Cost in San Antonio
Breast reconstruction is typically covered by health insurance under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA). This includes:
Surgeon’s fees
Facility and anesthesia costs
Tissue expanders and implants
Follow-up care
Our team will help confirm your benefits and walk you through the process.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, implant-based breast reconstruction carries risks. Dr. Rokosz will explain all risks during your consultation and take every step to help you heal safely and successfully.
Bleeding or infection
Implant shifting, rippling, or rupture
Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant)
Asymmetry or the need for revision surgery
Our team will help confirm your benefits and walk you through the process.
Why Choose Dr. Rokosz for Breast Reconstruction?
Dr. Rokosz is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive sugeon who is committed to helping you feel whole again through personalized care that prioritizes your comfort, confidence, and well-being. She has extensive experience in breast reconstruction and will provide honest, compassionate guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reconstruction
Implant-based breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores breast shape after mastectomy using saline or silicone implants, either in a single or two-stage process. It helps women regain confidence and a natural contour after breast surgery.
Women who have had a mastectomy or are planning one, are healthy, have enough skin and tissue after surgery, and desire a predictable breast shape are excellent candidates for implant-based breast reconstruction.
Most cases use a two-stage approach: first, a tissue expander is placed to gradually stretch the skin and muscle.
This is later replaced with a permanent implant. Some women may be candidates for direct-to-implant placement at the time of mastectomy.
Yes, patients may choose between saline or silicone breast implants based on feel, aesthetics, and individual preferences. Dr. Rokosz will discuss the advantages of each option and help personalize your plan.
Recovery varies but usually involves swelling, restricted arm movement, and use of a support bra for the first few weeks. Many patients return to daily activities within two weeks, with full recovery occurring in stages after both the expander and implant procedures.
Most insurance plans cover breast reconstruction following mastectomy under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA). Dr. Rokosz’s team helps confirm your benefits and guides you through the process.
Dr. Rokosz is a board-certified reconstructive plastic surgeon specializing in compassionate, expert care for women after mastectomy, offering personalized options, honest guidance, and proven results in San Antonio.
Implant reconstruction uses saline or silicone implants, while flap reconstruction uses your own tissue. Dr. Rokosz explains the benefits of each approach based on your situation and preferences.
Yes, immediate reconstruction is often possible. Dr. Rokosz works closely with oncologists to coordinate timing and create the best plan for your cancer treatment and reconstruction goals.
Patient Testimonials
