Breast Reconstruction in Denver, Colorado (CO)

The loss of one or both of your breasts from cancer-related mastectomy can be devastating, but reconstruction surgery is available to restore the appearance of your breasts and nipples. Breast reconstruction can involve a combination of implants, transplanted tissue, and medical tattooing to achieve physically and aesthetically pleasing results.

How breast reconstruction is performed

There are two types of breast reconstruction—implant reconstruction that uses silicone or saline implants placed under your chest muscle, and autologous/flap reconstruction that uses transplanted tissue from other areas of your body to recreate your breasts.

Breast reconstruction surgery can involve one or both of these techniques, and can be done during your mastectomy or in later surgeries. Your health team will help you decide which options are best for you.

Breast implant reconstruction
can be a shorter and less complex surgery, and may be a better option if you want to avoid the extra incisions and scarring from flap reconstruction. It may be difficult matching your implant with your natural breast, and implants can sometimes cause future complications. It’s not unusual to require some type of revision or implant replacement surgery after ten years or so.


Autologous/flap reconstruction
can produce a more natural feeling breast, and most women won’t need any future surgeries. Flap reconstruction surgery is more involved though; it requires tissue to be transplanted from areas such as your abdomen or buttocks to your chest. This can mean more scarring and a longer recovery.

Nipple and areola reconstruction

Nipple and areola reconstruction is performed by making small incisions at the site of your nipple and building up the tissue with careful stitching. Your areolas, (the darker circular areas around your nipples), can be recreated with medical tattooing for a very convincing appearance.

Recovery after surgery

Recovery after breast reconstruction may be a significant determining factor in your decision, especially after the difficulty of undergoing breast cancer treatment and mastectomy. Breast implant reconstruction typically has a shorter recovery time compared to autologous/flap reconstruction, but your pain, discomfort, and down-time can vary. Your surgeon can help you with recovery expectations.

Costs

Breast reconstruction is usually covered by health insurance. Factors such as your area, surgeon, and any related anesthesia or facility fees may affect costs. You can speak with your health insurance provider and surgeon to learn what is covered and what your best options are.  


About Steven Vath, MD

Dr. Steven D. Vath decided to pursue a career in plastic surgery during his first year of general surgical residency at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Having the opportunity to get involved with plastic surgery procedures as part of his training, he was stirred by the transformations plastic surgeons created for their patients in both their looks and their feelings about themselves. He took note of the sincere satisfaction and appreciation patients expressed as their goals were achieved. Dr. Vath developed Adornment for the type of surgeon and person who could bring about such changes, and his passion for plastic surgery took hold.

Dr. Vath's practice is located in Colorado, with offices in both Golden and Denver, where he performs breast enhancement surgery for hundreds of patients each year. Women from all over Colorado come to him for breast augmentation, breast lifting surgery, breast reduction, nipple procedures and more.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Vath attended Tufts University and received his Bachelor of Science degree. He returned to New Jersey to study medicine at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School ( Rutgers Medical School ), and then went to George Washington University for his six-year general surgical residency. A highlight of that time for him was his year of surgical research focusing on infectious causes of death in the intensive care unit. The work led to presentations at professional society meetings and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

After finishing his general surgery residency in Washington, Dr. Vath relocated to New Orleans to receive training in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Louisiana State University Medical Center and Charity Hospital. Following this, he sought further specialized training in cosmetic plastic surgery in Los Angeles, in a University of Southern California-associated fellowship. This cosmetic surgery fellowship is one of only a dozen in the country accredited by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

In his Colorado practice, Dr. Vath combines safe and effective standard surgical techniques that have stood the test of time with state-of-the-art innovations. His goal is to achieve the best possible surgical results for each patient while minimizing recovery time. His approach with every consultation is to take plenty of time to develop a relationship of mutual trust and respect. He listens carefully to his patients' goals, helps them understand what is realistically possible for them through diagrams, photos and discussion, reviews all potential risks and complications and answers all questions. Dr. Vath does not want his patients to feel rushed during the process.

Dr. Vath understands that making decisions about plastic surgery is a challenge, and he knows his patients have sensitive and personal concerns. He strives to empower his patients to make their own decisions and to support them at each step along the way.

Additional Location
725 Heritage Road, Suite 100
Golden, CO 80401 
Golden Office and Surgical Facility

Featured Specialist for Breast Reconstruction in Denver, CO

Steven Vath, MD

Call Now: (303) 395-5243
501 S Cherry St Suite 900

Denver, CO 80246

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