Contact our Fairfield County, Connecticut practice to find out more about breast reconstruction using the TRAM, DIEP, and latissimus flap techniques.
David Passaretti, MD
722 Post Road Suite 200
Darien, Connecticut 06820
P / 203-656-9999
F / 203-655-0099
Breast cancer strikes women and their families without warning and often leaves people feeling completely overwhelmed. They are suddenly forced to make seemingly endless decisions, all within a matter of just a few weeks. We understand this and are here to help. We will take time to make sure that you have all the information you need about your breast reconstruction alternatives and help you to make the decision that is best for you. There is no single reconstructive surgery option that is best for everyone, which is why our Fairfield County, Connecticut practice offers a full range of breast reconstruction procedures.
Dr. David Passaretti is well acquainted with and works closely with the best breast surgeons and cancer doctors in the area. This team approach to breast reconstruction ensures that all aspects of your treatment are coordinated and well orchestrated to provide you with the best possible care. The goal of breast reconstruction surgery is to rebuild and reshape the breasts following mastectomy, although it may also be indicated for atypical development of one or both breasts. During mastectomy, your breast surgeon will remove both breast tissue and the nipple with the surrounding breast skin. Any breast reconstruction must replace both of these missing aspects.
At our plastic surgery practice in Fairfield County, Connecticut, we offer all four major types of breast reconstruction surgery, including reconstruction with the patient’s own tissue - TRAM flap reconstruction; breast reconstruction with implants; DIEP flap reconstruction; or latissimus flap reconstruction. Using the latest breast reconstruction techniques, we are able to create two balanced, symmetrical breast mounds that look and feel completely natural.
The TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muscle) flap procedure has become the most popular of the various living tissue breast reconstruction methods performed.
The latissimus flap technique provides an alternative form of breast reconstruction for patients who may not be ideal candidates for the more invasive TRAM Flap procedure.
The DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap technique is similar to the TRAM flap technique. Unlike the TRAM flap procedure, however, only skin and fat from the abdominal area are used, allowing for a shorter recovery period.
When implants are used for breast reconstruction, surgeons often use tissue expanders that stretch the skin to create room for the implants.
Following breast reconstruction, many women opt to undergo nipple reconstruction to achieve more natural-looking breasts.
"Dr. Passaretti:
I'm not sure if you remember me, but I was a patient of yours last year. In the early part of 2006, I had a mastectomy and left breast reconstruction. In June of last year I left Darien and relocated to Richmond, Virginia.
I've been meaning to write for about a year now. Yesterday, I had my mammogram and once again, the medical professionals that have worked with me, both in Washington DC and here, claim the work you did reconstructing me is some of the best they've seen. At first, I thought it was just their being nice since I was so nervous, but I'm now convinced, they're telling it like they see. (I'm supposed to tell you that your nipple replacement technique is the best in the country!)
Last year, my mammogram detailed some suspicious activity in my remaining right breast which resulted in a biopsy. I had your business card out and ready to dial the phone to ask you to participate in Round 2, but the tumor was benign. This year is the first year I've had a "normal" screening. Something I don't take for granted any longer and celebrate to the fullest.
Although the emotional scarring took a little longer to heal, I've dedicated this year to getting my health back. I've become a Certified Personal Trainer with the American College of Sports Medicine and will participate in the 3-Day 60 mile walk for the cure through the Susan G. Komen organization in San Diego the early part of November. It's high time I start giving back!
Anyway, I've thought of you and your staff often with such gratitude. It was a tough time for me and your patience, dry humor, and professionalism, along with your staff that was so caring, made all of the difference in the world. For that, I thank you and wish for you the best. You're a terrific doctor with an awesome staff."
For information on a support program for surgical patients, please log onto www.necessitiesbag.org. The Necessities Bag contains practical information and post-operative supplies to make the hospital stay and recovery at home more manageable and comfortable. Maureen Lutz, the founder of Necessities, was prompted by her own experience and her compassion for other women undergoing the procedure to create the Necessities Bag. The bags are free of charge and distributed by a surgeon or nurse involved with post-surgical patient care. Dr. Passaretti is a co-founder of the Necessities Bag.
For information on tissue expanders and implants used in breast reconstruction please log on to: http://www.mentorcorp.com/cosmetic-surgery.htm.
The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998, requires health insurance plans to cover breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy. Coverage must be provided for the breast reconstruction, prostheses and also for the other breast to provide symmetry. Most private insurance companies are accepted. Please call Gerri Stonebank, Patient Coordinator at our surgical center, if you require any further information.
Dr. Passaretti is dedicated to helping the courageous women who have undergone mastectomy. As one of the premier cosmetic surgeons in the Fairfield County, Connecticut area, he seeks to provide breast reconstruction surgery of an exceptionally high standard to the women who need and deserve it most. Please contact his practice and schedule a private consultation today.