October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and breast cancer reconstruction takes center stage as a vital option for survivors looking to restore their confidence and quality of life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women and the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the U.S. Many survivors opt for reconstructive surgery to regain their sense of confidence and normalcy after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Dr. Brandon Richland, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in full body natural-looking makeovers, shares his expertise on this transformative journey.
"I’ve had the honor of helping countless women rebuild their lives through breast reconstruction," explains Dr. Brandon Richland, founder of Richland MD and Richland Aesthetics. "Restoring breast shape and contour after cancer can dramatically enhance a woman’s self-image and overall emotional healing."
Dr. Richland is widely recognized for his penchant for perfection and delivers exceptional results. He is especially known for perfecting the art of the natural “mommy makeover” and is at the forefront of breast augmentation. The choice to undergo breast reconstruction is deeply personal, and understanding the process is crucial to making an informed decision. He has seen firsthand the positive emotional and physical transformations that breast cancer survivors experience through this surgery. Those who have breast cancer will want to know the details of reconstruction to determine if it is the right choice for them.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 158,000 breast reconstruction procedures were performed in 2023, placing it among the top five plastic surgeries for the second consecutive year. The goal of breast reconstruction is to restore the shape, volume, and contour of the breast for women post-mastectomy or lumpectomy. Dr. Richland emphasizes the following key factors women should consider when exploring breast cancer reconstruction:
Cancer Stage: Women in earlier stages of cancer may be better candidates for reconstruction.
Type of Surgery: The size of the tumor and whether a mastectomy or lumpectomy is performed, will impact reconstruction options.
Body Type: Body mass index and cancer location are critical in determining the surgical approach.
Radiation or Chemotherapy: According to the National Cancer Institute, radiation therapy can sometimes complicate the healing process and increase the risk of infection in reconstructed breasts.
Timing of Reconstruction: Some women opt for immediate reconstruction, while others choose to delay the procedure for months or even years.
Dr. Richland’s breast reconstruction services offer comprehensive care, including implant-based procedures, autologous tissue reconstruction, oncoplastic techniques, and nipple reconstruction. His compassionate approach ensures patients feel supported throughout their reconstructive journey.
"Whether it's breast cancer reconstruction or a “mommy makeover,” my goal is to help women feel like themselves again," says Dr. Richland. "It is important to make informed choices that align with personal health and aesthetic goals."
As one of Orange County’s leading plastic surgeons, Dr. Brandon Richland is known for offering world-class care and natural, beautiful results for all his patients. His practice, Richland MD, specializes in “mommy makeovers” which can include procedures such as breast augmentation, body sculpting, tummy tucks, skin tightening, body contouring, facelifts, chin liposuction, and fat transfers. Additionally, Richland Aesthetics offers a wide range of facial and body anti-aging treatments including injectables, Morpheus RF microneedling, IPL, Forma "Red Carpet" facials, laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and other cutting-edge laser treatments for the face and body. For more information on breast cancer reconstruction, “mommy makeovers,” or to view before-and-after photos, visit www.richlandmd.com.
