Is Breast Reconstruction Painful?

Dr. Groves performs your Macon breast reconstruction procedure under general anesthesia, ensuring you remain asleep while he reshapes and refines your chest appearance. After surgery, the doctor will make sure your healing process is stress-free by prescribing narcotic painkillers. You can likely switch to over-the-counter pain medications within one week post-op.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Because breast reconstruction is highly customized, the number of procedures required to restore your chest appearance can vary. Some patients may need their reconstruction to be staged. This can involve the use of tissue expanders, implant placement, and the adjustment of the nipples and areolas. Dr. Groves can provide you with a more accurate timeline of your appointments after completing your individualized assessment and private consultation in Macon, Georgia.

How Long Until I See Results?

It may take several months for your breasts to “settle” after the surgery. Swelling will slowly dissipate, allowing you to view your full results. While they are waiting for their changes to emerge, many patients take the opportunity to shop for new clothing, swimwear, and lingerie.

Can I Combine Breast Reconstruction With Other Procedures?

Yes. As an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Groves performs an array of transformative solutions for the skin, face, and body. He can create a customized treatment plan that addresses multiple areas of concern. He will go over your options in detail during your private consultation.

What Are the Risks Associated With Breast Reconstruction?

Dr. Groves will discuss the risks of breast reconstruction with you as part of your thorough consultation. In general, the surgery comes with the following risks: Swelling Bruising Bleeding Fluid buildup Infection Blood clots Excessive scar tissue Anesthesia risks Poor wound healing Capsular contracture Implant rupture Breast Implant Illness

Breast Reconstruction in Macon, GA

Breast Reconstruction

Introduction

Introduction to Breast Reconstruction

Women who have undergone a mastectomy are not without hope. The Georgia Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joshua R. Groves, is a leading provider of breast reconstruction using the DIEP flap technique. Dr. Groves has helped Warner Robins, Houston County, and Bibb County women regain their lives and self-esteem through breast reconstruction since 2009.

Before & After Photos

Gallery

Before & After
Before & After

View Results

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction involves creating a new breast by using tissue from elsewhere in your body. It differs from breast augmentation in that no implants are inserted into the body. This procedure may be used to recreate breasts that have been completely removed after a mastectomy or to reshape breasts that have become deformed or misshapen due to trauma or injury. Breast reconstruction is customized to meet your exact needs and may be performed in conjunction with one or more other reconstructive procedures.

DIEP Flap Reconstruction

The artery that runs through the abdomen is known as the Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator, or DIEP. A DIEP flap procedure involves cutting skin, fat, and blood vessels from the abdomen in order to access this artery, temporarily disconnecting it from the body. The tissue is then removed and replaced in the chest area, where it is shaped to create a new breast that very closely matches the natural breast that was removed. The DIEP flap technique accelerates healing and reduces discomfort, as it does not involve cutting or shaping any muscles.

A beautiful young woman with long, dark hair is looking to the side. She is wearing a white satin camisole with thin straps. The image has a soft, diffused light, and she appears to be indoors with a gray wall as the backdrop. Her expression is thoughtful and serene. - Breast Reduction in Macon, GA

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reconstruction?

In general, breast reconstruction will help a woman restore her sense of self-esteem. For some, it can be an essential part of healing after a battle with breast cancer. Those who undergo a DIEP flap procedure will have the added benefit of a firmer, flatter tummy since the excess tissue is harvested from the abdomen.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Breast Reconstruction?

You are the only one who knows how losing all or part of a breast will affect your quality of life. If you are ready to take the next step, it’s important that you and your doctor discuss your goals honestly to determine if the potential risks outweigh the benefits.

Breast reconstruction surgery must be carefully timed so as not to interfere with any of your other treatments. Dr. Groves will work carefully with your primary care physician to determine the best time for surgery. Whenever possible, he will schedule a mastectomy and reconstruction simultaneously in an effort to reduce your recovery time. He will also review your health history to determine if you have certain conditions, such as previous abdominal surgeries, which may preclude you from undergoing a DIEP flap procedure.

What’s the First Step?

Getting started with breast reconstruction in Macon is simple and straightforward. Dr. Groves will conduct a private consultation with you, which includes a detailed physical assessment and comprehensive medical evaluation. He will answer all your questions and take the time to listen fully to your unique vision for your appearance. Once your surgery date has been set, Dr. Groves may ask you to follow certain guidelines, including the following:

Undergo certain additional medical tests if needed
Stop taking certain medications and supplements that might increase surgical risks
Quit smoking at least 4-6 weeks prior to surgery
Fill all prescriptions ahead of time
Book a helper to drive you home after your procedure

What to Expect on the Day of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction with Dr. Groves in Macon, GA, is fairly involved; however, advances in surgical procedures now make it easier than ever for women to undergo one without the risk of serious complications. New procedures, such as the stacked DIEP flap, are also available for those without a great deal of excess abdominal tissue, making it possible for more women to avoid having muscles cut.

Breast Reconstruction Recovery

You can expect to experience moderate discomfort, swelling, and tenderness for a few weeks afterward. Dr. Groves will explain the exact steps you should take during recovery, including how long to take off from work and what restrictions to follow, during your initial consultation.

How Much Does Breast Reconstruction Cost in Macon, GA?

The cost of breast reconstruction in Macon, Warner Robins, Houston County, Bibb County, and the surrounding areas depends on the amount of tissue being removed and replaced, in addition to the exact technique Dr. Groves chooses. During your consultation, we will discuss the cost and go over our payment options to find one that best suits your needs.

Some procedures may be covered by medical insurance. Our staff is experienced in matters related to insurance and will work closely with your carrier to ensure you receive maximum coverage. In the event a procedure is not covered, we offer financing through CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit. We will be happy to assist you in filling out the necessary application. Alternatively, you may apply on the CareCredit website prior to your appointment. We partner with SunTrust Bank to offer low, fixed-interest-rate loans to patients with good to excellent credit for all cosmetic procedures. We also accept cash, personal checks, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Discover Card.

Our Ethos

Why Choose Dr. Groves?

Dr. Joshua R. Groves, originally from Thomasville, Georgia, received his in-depth medical training at the Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon, GA, graduating with an M.D. in 2001. After medical school, he completed a demanding internship and general surgery residency at the Medical Center of Central Georgia in 2006. Dr. Groves then continued to refine his skill and artistry with an elite burn fellowship from 2006 to 2007 at the University of Tennessee in Memphis. His training in plastic and reconstructive surgery was completed in 2009 at the University of Tennessee in Memphis. Dr. Groves is Board-Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and maintains active membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society. He provides a compassionate and personalized approach to patient care, emphasizing safety, integrity, and excellence at every stage of your treatment journey.

Breast Reconstruction FAQ’S

Dr. Groves performs your Macon breast reconstruction procedure under general anesthesia, ensuring you remain asleep while he reshapes and refines your chest appearance. After surgery, the doctor will make sure your healing process is stress-free by prescribing narcotic painkillers. You can likely switch to over-the-counter pain medications within one week post-op.
Because breast reconstruction is highly customized, the number of procedures required to restore your chest appearance can vary. Some patients may need their reconstruction to be staged. This can involve the use of tissue expanders, implant placement, and the adjustment of the nipples and areolas. Dr. Groves can provide you with a more accurate timeline of your appointments after completing your individualized assessment and private consultation in Macon, Georgia.
Dr. Groves will discuss the risks of breast reconstruction with you as part of your thorough consultation. In general, the surgery comes with the following risks:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Fluid buildup
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Excessive scar tissue
- Anesthesia risks
- Poor wound healing
- Capsular contracture
- Implant rupture
- Breast Implant Illness

Real Patient Reviews

What our patients say

I highly recommend you use Dr. Groves and his team! I had my first plastic surgery ever done and they have been amazing calling and checking on me as well as they also have a way you can text the phone line number and your question will get answered pretty fast! I wish i remembered everyones names but Danielle,Babs and Groves plus the rest of his team is amazing! He will be who i always use if i want something else done! Im only 4 days out and i already love my results though im still very swollen

Kayla T.
My experience has been nothing short of amazing. The staff and Doctor Groves are very professional and welcoming. I had my breast reduction surgery not long ago and I am more than pleased with my results. It’s been a whole year now and I wanted to give a update, everything is amazing my healing was easy and my result are just what I expected, Dr. Groves is the best! Thanks again!

Shereka S.
My Experience with Dr Groves has been top Notch! His Staff is Really Outstanding! So Sincere & Caring . Never experienced a better all around Fantastic group. I recently had Surgery. He is the Best! Makes Absolutely sure he knows what you are looking for & He will Deliver the Best Results.

Warren M

Start your journey with trusted, personalized care.

Schedule a Consultation

If you live in Macon, Warner Robins, Houston County, Bibb County, or surrounding communities and are facing the loss of a breast, contact the Georgia Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery to find out about the many breast reconstruction options that are available. Contact Dr. Groves today for your breast reconstruction consultation.

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (478) 254-6608