Breast Reconstruction

Yes. Under the federal Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), insurance plans that cover mastectomy are required to also cover breast reconstruction — including procedures on the opposite breast for symmetry. Specifics are verified with your carrier at consultation.

Options include implant-based reconstruction, autologous flap reconstruction (using your own tissue), fat grafting, and combined approaches. Dr. Steffen will review your anatomy, oncologic plan, and goals, and walk through each option in detail.

In many cases yes — this is called immediate reconstruction. In other cases, delayed reconstruction may be the better option, depending on your oncologic treatment plan and individual health. The timing is determined jointly with your oncology and surgical team.

Dr. Steffen published work on vertical inset of the latissimus dorsi flap to reduce scar burden in the "social breast" — receiving the Glancy Competition First Place Award at the Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. His research on progressive tension closure techniques has also appeared in Annals of Plastic Surgery.

Reconstruction is often staged over several procedures across a number of months — with the first stage performed at or shortly after mastectomy and subsequent refinements over time. Your full timeline is mapped out at consultation.