MEET WITH A TOP BREAST RECONSTRUCTION SURGEON NEAR YOU
Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction has long been a core focus at East Cooper Plastic Surgery, and it’s this focus that led to the creation of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. Located in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, our practice welcomes women from across the country who are seeking expert care after breast cancer treatment. We understand how important it is to feel like yourself again after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, and we’re here to offer expert guidance, thoughtful care, and options that honor your goals.
Dr. James Craigie(opens in a new tab), Dr. Richard Kline(opens in a new tab), and Dr. Robert Allen(opens in a new tab) bring decades of surgical experience and a compassionate, patient-first approach to every breast reconstruction case. Our team is proud to offer both state-of-the-art microsurgical autologous breast reconstruction and implant-based techniques, ensuring you have access to the solutions that best support your recovery, needs, and goals.
If you’re considering breast reconstruction, we invite you to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you look and feel like your best self.
EXPLORE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BREAST RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
Natural Reconstruction Options
Natural breast reconstruction is a kind of surgery that rebuilds the shape, volume, and appearance of the breast using the body’s own tissue. In other words, unlike implant-based reconstructions, natural reconstruction provides natural results that truly look and feel like a part of your body. It’s often preferred by women who wish to avoid foreign materials or who want a permanent solution.
Below, you'll find some of the most common breast reconstruction procedures we offer. Visit our detailed pages and breast reconstruction Before & After Gallery on The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction website to learn more.
- DIEP Flap: Uses tissue from the lower abdomen to restore breast shape and volume without the loss of important abdominal muscles.
- GAP Flap: Ideal for patients who have little tissue to use around their midsection, this technique uses tissue from the buttocks to recreate the breast.
- PAP Flap: Uses tissue from the inner thigh, offering a great alternative for those who can not or prefer not to use abdominal or buttock tissue.
- ReSensation™: Innovative nerve repair technique that helps restore feeling in the breast and nipples after surgery.
- 3D Nipple Tattooing: Uses advanced pigments to recreate the appearance of natural nipples without additional surgery.
Each of these techniques is designed with your long-term outcomes, body compatibility, and aesthetic goals in mind. During your consultation, we’ll help you understand which approach—or combination—is right for you.
RECONSTRUCTION FROM MOUNT PLEASANT PLASTIC SURGEONS
Implant Reconstruction
Implant-based breast reconstruction is a common and effective option for many women undergoing mastectomy. At East Cooper Plastic Surgery, our board-certified microsurgeons use one of two methods:
Direct to Implant (DTI) breast reconstruction is a streamlined option where the implant is placed during the same procedure as a mastectomy, eliminating the need for tissue expanders and reducing the overall treatment timeline. It’s typically an option for patients undergoing nipple-sparing mastectomy with healthy skin and good breast symmetry. However, not every patient is a candidate; those with thinner skin, radiation history, or a higher risk of healing complications may be better suited for a staged approach.
Tissue expansion provides a more gradual path to implant-based reconstruction. In this two-surgery process, a temporary tissue expander is placed during the first procedure. Over several weeks or months, saline is added to the expander during office visits, slowly stretching the tissue to prepare for a permanent implant.
Once the desired expansion is achieved and the area has healed, a second surgery replaces the expander with a permanent implant. This method offers greater flexibility, particularly in complex cases, and helps ensure a natural and symmetrical result.
Our team will work with you and your oncology team to develop a reconstruction plan that fits your timeline, recovery goals, and personal preferences. However, if you're considering DTI, keep in mind that your surgeon will make the final decision during surgery—choosing between an implant or tissue expander—based on the results of the mastectomy.
BREAST EXPLANT SURGERY & REVISION RECONSTRUCTION NEAR YOU
Revisions & Implant Removal
At East Cooper Plastic Surgery, we specialize in providing second opinions and advanced surgical care for patients who are seeking revisions. In fact, approximately 1/3 of patients who come to us have previously experienced failed implant reconstruction, whether that means dealing with asymmetry, pain, implant issues, or simply being unhappy with the results.
For those who no longer wish to have breast implants (whether for health reasons, lifestyle changes, or aesthetic preferences), we offer implant removal with or without an internal breast lift. Additionally, many women choose to transition from implants to a natural tissue-based reconstruction.
Our experienced microsurgeons maintain a success rate of over 99% for natural reconstruction procedures, and they will carefully evaluate each case to offer the best possible solution tailored to your individual needs. This means that you can trust us to deliver exceptional results with the highest level of safety and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between implant and natural reconstruction?
Natural reconstruction uses tissue from your own body to recreate the breast, offering more realistic results. Implant-based reconstruction, including DTI, uses silicone or saline implants. The right choice depends on your health history, personal preferences, and desired outcomes. We’ll guide you through both options so you can choose what feels best.
Will I need multiple surgeries?
Most breast reconstruction options involve more than one stage, particularly natural tissue techniques. However, DTI reconstruction is completed in a single surgery. During your consultation, we’ll review your surgical timeline based on the approach that fits your needs.
Is breast reconstruction covered by insurance?
In most cases, yes. Under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), insurance providers that cover mastectomies must also cover breast reconstruction surgery. We can help you verify your benefits during your consultation.
Is it true that breast reconstruction patients receive discounts on aesthetic services?
Yes! All of our breast reconstruction patients receive 20% off aesthetic products and services at East Cooper Plastic Surgery. This includes treatments like facials, microneedling, chemical peels, and more. It’s our way of supporting your confidence and self-care beyond surgery.
How do I schedule a consultation for breast reconstruction near me?
We make scheduling a consultation with us easy! Simply give us a call at 843-849-8418 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to helping you take the next step in your recovery journey!