Breast Reconstruction
Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate Reconstruction

Dr. Harris maintains a multi-disciplined approach to reconstructive plastic surgery that encompasses many of the cosmetic problems encountered by patients from birth through adulthood. Breast cancer and cleft lip/palate are typical of the kind of reconstructive plastic surgeries Dr. Harris performs.

Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is commonly performed on women who have had a mastectomy (removal of the breast due to cancer or precancerous condition) or who have post-radiation breast deformities. Many women feel very insecure or self-conscious about the appearance of their breasts following mastectomy. Breast reconstruction allows their natural curves to be restored, which can drastically improve their quality of life.

There are two broad categories of breast reconstruction: 1) implant-based reconstruction and 2) techniques that use only the patient's own tissue (TRAM flaps, latissimus flaps). Which technique is best for a patient depends on many factors and variables, and a treatment plan can be formulated to meet your specific goals and needs.

Breast reconstruction techniques are usually performed in stages and can span across six months. The first procedure, which is usually performed at the time of the mastectomy, is the longest and most complex. The subsequent surgeries are usually outpatient and involve minimal pain and recovery time.

To discuss all your treatment options, please contact our practice today for a consultation.

To learn more about breast reconstruction, visit the sites below:
West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition
Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition
American Society of Plastic Surgeons

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Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate Reconstruction
A cleft lip & palate is a deformity of the lip and/or palate (roof of the mouth) in which a vertical gap, or separation, exists in either the lip or the palate. Occurring during fetal development, this common birth defect can (and often does) affect an infant’s speech development and feeding. Cleft lip and/or cleft palate can be corrected with reconstructive surgery. It is generally recommended that reconstructive surgery take place as soon as possible and, in most cases, within the first three months of a newborn’s life. Sometimes a series of corrective surgeries is needed, and these can be done in stages.

As an active member of the cleft lip and palate teams at North Shore University Hospital and St. Charles Hospital, Dr. Harris is uniquely qualified to perform cleft lip/cleft palate reconstructive surgery.

To find out more about this procedure or to schedule a consultation, contact our practice today.

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