Contact
Gallery
Miami, FL
305-204-9598

Miami, FL

Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy

Introduction to Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy

The journey of a patient through a therapeutic or prophylactic mastectomy can be both physically and emotionally challenging. However, modern advancements in medical techniques and evolving perspectives on beauty have led to a growing number of patients embracing the choice of going flat after mastectomy. Dr. Gallagher’s expertise in using a drain-free technique ensures a seamless, natural flat closure, regardless of the patient’s breast size or outcome.

Dr. Ghallager, wearing a light blue surgical gown, a hair net, and a face mask, is focused on a procedure in an operating room. They are holding surgical instruments and looking down at the patient area covered by blue drapes. - Aesthetic Flat Closure after Mastectomy in Miami, Fl A bright, minimalist, and artistic photo with a white corner wall against a turquoise sky, featuring the strong, diagonal shadow of a palm frond cast on the wall and a dark green palm frond hanging into the frame from the top.

What Is Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy?

Aesthetic flat closure, also known as going flat, is the empowering choice of not undergoing breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. While breast reconstruction remains a valid option, more women are opting for the flat closure due to various reasons.

The journey of a patient through a therapeutic or prophylactic mastectomy can be both physically and emotionally challenging. However, modern advancements in medical techniques and evolving perspectives on beauty have led to a growing number of patients embracing the choice of going flat after mastectomy. Dr. Gallagher’s expertise in using a drain-free technique ensures a seamless, natural flat closure, regardless of the patient’s breast size or outcome.

Flat Denial and What Can Be Done

“Flat denial” is a term used to describe the situation where women who have chosen to go flat after mastectomy are left with excess tissue and skin, preventing them from achieving the desired flat and natural appearance. This can lead to physical discomfort, emotional distress, and a lingering sense of dissatisfaction with the surgical outcome. While the choice to go flat is empowering, flat denial can hinder the full realization of this choice. According to one study, this occurs in approximately 1 in 20 patients who opt for a flat position.

In such cases, Dr. Gallagher’s expertise shines, as she specializes in aesthetic flat closure revisions, addressing these challenges and restoring a sense of balance and confidence for patients. Dr. Gallagher offers complimentary virtual consultations to women from around the world who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their chest after breast reduction surgery. We are not in network with any insurance providers, but our team can work with them in most instances to secure coverage.

A range of approaches can be used to meet the patient’s goals and restore a smoother, more natural appearance, even after radiation to the chest. Dr. Gallagher can use excess tissue from the sides to fill in sunken areas, along with fat grafting. Dr. Gallagher has revolutionized a technique that allows even excess upper belly tissue to be used to fill sunken areas and lift the belly simultaneously. Indeed, through the mastectomy incisions, the patient can opt to smooth out the upper belly with a reverse tummy tuck at the same time as AFC or revisions.

What Are the Benefits of Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy?

Dr. Gallagher, a blonde woman with long curly hair, is seated at a desk in her office with a large window overlooking a cityscape. She is smiling and looking off to the side while holding documents and a pen.

Mastectomy patients today are challenging conventional norms and embracing authenticity in all its forms. More and more women are choosing aesthetic flat closure after mastectomy for profound reasons:

  • Personal Comfort: Many patients find comfort and confidence in their natural bodies after a mastectomy. Choosing not to undergo breast reconstruction aligns with their individual preferences and self-image, and many would rather avoid an implant or “foreign body”.
  • Simplification: Reconstruction procedures can be complex and involve multiple surgeries. Opting for the flat closure eliminates the need for additional surgeries, allowing women to focus on recovery and emotional healing.
  • Reduced Risks and Complications: Any surgical procedure comes with inherent risks. By choosing the aesthetic flat closure, women can avoid potential complications associated with reconstruction surgeries.
  • Emotional Healing: For some, embracing their new body as it is can aid in emotional healing and acceptance of the changes that come with a mastectomy.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy?

Dr. Gallagher, a blonde woman in a white lab coat over a grey dress, is seated and smiling warmly while speaking and gesturing with her hands to a patient in a light blue patterned hospital gown. They are in a well-lit exam room next to a wall with a pink and blue abstract painting.

Ideal candidates for aesthetic flat closure after a mastectomy do not desire implants or autologous flap surgery and wish to simplify their experience post-cancer. It may be recommended for those whose health issues could increase the risk of complications during reconstruction. 

In general, aesthetic flat closure after mastectomy is suitable for patients with the following characteristics:

  • No desire for reconstruction
  • Desires a simpler recovery process after mastectomy 
  • Desires a quicker return to normal activities
  • Not comfortable with the idea of implants or an autologous flap
  • Those with conditions like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, or other comorbidities that could increase reconstruction risks

What’s the first step?

Your Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy Journey with Dr. Gallagher

Dr. Gallagher’s approach to a mastectomy is redefining the landscape of gender affirming chest surgery, but her techniques are applicable and beneficial to all mastectomy patients. Her expertise lies in using a drain-free technique to achieve a smooth, natural chest appearance. This technique not only minimizes post-operative discomfort but also accelerates recovery. Dr. Gallagher’s proficiency extends to providing exceptional results for patients of all breast sizes and body types.

Key Advantages of Dr. Gallagher’s Approach

Drain-Free Technique

Traditional mastectomy procedures involve the use of drainage tubes post-surgery, which can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Dr. Gallagher’s drain-free technique reduces patient discomfort and enhances the recovery experience. In peer-reviewed publications, it has been shown to decrease the rates of hematoma and seroma and the need for reoperation.

Natural Aesthetic

Regardless of breast size or individual patient body type, Dr. Gallagher’s technique emphasizes achieving a natural chest appearance. This approach aligns with the growing preference for authenticity and body positivity.

Personalized Care

Dr. Gallagher understands that each patient’s journey is unique. Her approach involves close collaboration with patients to tailor the surgical plan according to their preferences and needs.

Revisions After Mastectomy

Dr. Gallagher’s exceptional expertise in aesthetic flat closure revisions is unmatched. Her approach ensures that every revision maintains the integrity of the natural chest appearance, resulting in a harmonious and authentic outcome.

Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy Care

Recovery with aesthetic flat closure after mastectomy is usually more rapid than with traditional reconstruction, which is one of its main advantages. Patients can expect around 3-4 weeks of healing time, understanding they should avoid strenuous workouts and heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks. As part of your aftercare plan, Dr. Gallagher will provide customized instructions for incision care, bathing and showering, sleeping, resuming exercise, and returning to work.

How Much Does Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy Cost in Miami, FL?

Pricing for aesthetic flat closure after mastectomy can vary. Dr. Gallagher will review all pricing, financing, and insurance information with you during your individualized consultation in Miami, Florida.

Blurred, abstract background image in a muted teal/dark cyan color, showing the soft shadow or outline of large palm fronds, creating a texture effect.

Why Choose Dr. Gallagher?

Dr. Sidhbh (pronounced “Sive”) Gallagher, a double-board-certified body contouring specialist in Miami, FL, is known for her natural-looking outcomes, commitment to excellence, and a deep regard for patient safety. She utilizes today’s most innovative techniques and technologies to minimize downtime, discomfort, and surgical risks.

Hailing from Ireland, Dr. Gallagher earned her medical degree from University College Dublin, graduating in the top 3% of her class. She then traveled to the U.S., where she continued to develop her skills and artistry through eight additional years of intensive surgical training. Dr. Gallagher served as an assistant professor at Indiana University from 2015 to 2020, during which time she developed pioneering techniques, including Masculoplasty. As a respected innovator in the complex field of gender affirmation surgery, Dr. Gallagher founded the Eskenazi Health Transgender Surgery Program, as well as the program at Indiana University Health.

Blurred, abstract background image in a muted teal/dark cyan color, showing the soft shadow or outline of large palm fronds, creating a texture effect.

Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy FAQ’S

See what our Patients Say

Patient Reviews

  • Dr. Gallagher, wearing a surgical cap and mask, is shown from the back of the head and shoulder, dressed in a blue surgical gown, looking down toward a bright operating area.

    I had an amazing experience with Dr.Gallagher and her team, the whole experience from the procedure (top surgery) to the post-op care has been fantastic. Dr.Gallagher was able to address any concerns I had with my chest before the procedure and made me feel comfortable the whole way through, and then the attentiveness post-op is all the better.

    Alfio Oliveira (Jay)

  • Dr. Gallagher (left), in a white lab coat, and a blonde patient (right), in a blue patterned hospital gown, smile and look up at the camera. The patient is holding up a peace sign with one hand. A piece of art with the colors of the transgender flag is visible on the wall behind them.

    Thank you so much Dr. Gallagher for your amazing work! I appreciated the great support from your team at the surgical centre and your office. Everyone was so wonderful! I am extremely happy with my results and had a very positive experience. I had followed Dr. Gallagher for several years on Instagram prior to my surgery, and learned so much from her detailed explanations about various aspects of the surgical procedures, what to expect on the day, recovery, etc. I had complete trust, felt safe, felt listened to. I also appreciate the follow-ups, and answers to all my questions. The support, warmth, care is top notch!

    Gill B.

  • Dr. Suzanne Gallagher, a blonde woman in light green scrubs, stands next to a patient lying on a bed (only the patient's arm is visible) behind a blue curtain in what appears to be a clinical or operating room setting. She is smiling and gesturing with her right hand while her left hand is on her hip.

    Dr. Gallagher and her whole team, from Neasa to Daryl Ann and everyone else in between, are absolutely fantastic, kind hearted, hard working people. Dr. Gallagher truly amazed me and I’m so grateful to have had her on my team.

    I was able to get keyhole top surgery about three weeks ago and I’m loving my results already! I’m muscular and heavier set as well but always had a smaller chest, and I’m so glad Dr. Gallagher was the one who could do this for me.

    Right now I am still experiencing swelling, but I am using compression dressings every day, throughout the day which helps tons! I know that when the swelling subsides months from now, and everything is “back to normal”, I am going to love even more what I see in the mirror because I can finally see me.

    Morgan F.

  • Dr. Gallagher, wearing a surgical cap and mask, is shown from the back of the head and shoulder, dressed in a blue surgical gown, looking down toward a bright operating area.

    So glad I found Dr. Gallagher. I would not have elected to pursue my surgery had I not found a qualified and competent medical provider that I felt I could trust and have confidence in their ability to offer a high-quality, low-risk result. As a result of my initial contacts and consultations with Gallagher Plastic Surgery practice, I was willing to pursue my desired surgery and even travel half-way across the country to their offices. I’m so glad I did. The results are outstanding, more than I even anticipated. This was the 3rd practice I had dealt with and so I was learning what to look for and knew Dr. Gallagher was a good fit. The medical expertise and professionalism are what I based my decision on to proceed. They were calmly confident for a reason. I realized at the surgery event and through to the 3 week post-op checkin the excellence in their personal care (bed side manner). The office and Dr. Gallagher communicated very well. Everything went smoothly and as planned. As nervous as I was about an unnecessary surgery, Dr. Gallagher and her team were able to build enough trust that I was able to receive a very beneficial result.

    Tim F.

  • Dr. Gallagher (left), in a white lab coat, and a blonde patient (right), in a blue patterned hospital gown, smile and look up at the camera. The patient is holding up a peace sign with one hand. A piece of art with the colors of the transgender flag is visible on the wall behind them.

    Dr. Gallagher and her team are the absolute best! She completed my brachioplasty on Tuesday and when I saw the initial results at my post op appointment two days later I literally had tears of joy streaming down my face. My weight loss journey has been a road of many ups and downs, and I was so nervous about whether this surgery could even work for me. Even with the swelling that is normal after brachioplasty, there is an enormous difference, and I am still in disbelief that even this early on, my arms look this great. My husband was even in disbelief, and we’re so excited to see what I’ll look like in two weeks time. Dr. Gallagher is so kind and patient, and walked me through all of the phases of healing/expectations, and was great to call and check in. If you are looking for a highly skilled surgeon that will give you optimal results along with a compassionate approach, it is well worth your time and money to consider a consultation with her. I am forever thankful for her and for her team! This is life changing for me. Thank you, Dr. Gallagher! I appreciate you so much!

    Melissa E.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have questions about aesthetic flat closure after mastectomy and would like to book a private consultation with Dr. Gallagher, a double-board-certified body sculpting expert in Miami, please contact us today to get started.

Dr. Gallagher frequently works with patients outside of Miami and the state of Florida. If you are interested in discussing this procedure in further detail, you can also schedule a virtual consultation with her to ask any questions you may have and learn more about proceeding with your surgery.

Contact Us