A breast cancer diagnosis changes everything. While treatment focuses on removing disease, many patients are also thinking about what comes next, how they will feel in their body after surgery, and whether reconstruction is the right step for them.
Breast reconstruction is a highly personalized process that restores the shape and appearance of the breast following mastectomy or lumpectomy. At Washingtonian Plastic Surgery, Dr. Navin Singh approaches reconstruction with both surgical precision and thoughtful planning, helping patients navigate their options with clarity and confidence.
Serving patients throughout McLean, Northern Virginia, and the greater Washington DC area, our practice provides individualized care from consultation through recovery, with a focus on achieving natural, balanced results.
About Dr. Navin Singh
Dr. Navin Singh is a dual board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. He trained at Brown University, Harvard Medical School, and Johns Hopkins, where he served as Director of Cosmetic Surgery. His clinical work includes advanced breast reconstruction following cancer treatment, with a focus on restoring natural shape, symmetry, and long-term outcomes.
In addition to his surgical expertise, Dr. Singh has contributed to published research related to breast reconstruction techniques, surgical planning, and patient outcomes. His approach combines technical precision with evidence-based decision-making, allowing patients to move forward with confidence at every stage of care.
Dr. Singh’s Research and Publications on Breast Cancer Reconstruction
Dr. Singh has contributed to clinical research focused on optimizing outcomes in breast reconstruction after cancer treatment. His work explores how different reconstructive approaches impact long-term results, symmetry, and patient satisfaction, helping guide more personalized surgical planning.
His research includes:
- Evaluation of reconstructive techniques, including implant-based and autologous (tissue-based) reconstruction
- Analysis of timing strategies, including immediate versus delayed reconstruction following mastectomy
- Studies focused on achieving symmetry and natural contour in unilateral and bilateral reconstruction
- Contributions to improving patient-centered outcomes, including recovery experience and long-term satisfaction
This research directly informs how each reconstruction plan is developed, ensuring that surgical decisions are tailored to both medical needs and individual goals.
What Is Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure designed to restore the shape, contour, and appearance of the breast following mastectomy or lumpectomy. Reconstruction may be performed at the time of cancer surgery (immediate reconstruction) or at a later date (delayed reconstruction), depending on your treatment plan and personal preference.
For patients interested in breast reconstruction, it is important to understand that this option is not limited to those newly diagnosed. While many patients pursue reconstruction at the time of mastectomy or lumpectomy, others may consider it years or even decades later.
Some women did not undergo reconstruction initially because it was not offered, or they wished to avoid additional surgery at the time. Others may have had reconstruction in the past but are now interested in revising or improving their results as their body has changed over time.
The goal is not only to recreate the breast, but to do so in a way that looks natural, feels balanced, and aligns with your body. Every reconstruction is customized based on your anatomy, cancer treatment, and desired outcome.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
There are several approaches to breast reconstruction, and the best option depends on your anatomy, treatment history, and goals. Dr. Singh will guide you through these options and recommend the approach that best fits your situation.
Implant-Based Reconstruction
This approach uses a breast implant to restore shape and volume. It may be performed in stages, often beginning with a tissue expander before placing the final implant.
Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction
This technique uses your own tissue, typically from the abdomen or another area of the body, to recreate the breast. It can provide a more natural look and feel and may be recommended for certain patients. Common flap techniques include DIEP flap, latissimus flap, and other advanced microsurgical options such as SGAP, IGAP, or TUG flaps.
Fat Grafting
Fat transfer can be used alone or in combination with other techniques to improve contour, symmetry, and overall appearance.
Combination Reconstruction
In some cases, a combination of implant and your own tissue is used to optimize contour and support.
Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Additional procedures can be performed to recreate the nipple and areola, completing the overall appearance of the breast.
Who Is a Candidate
You may be a candidate for breast reconstruction if you are undergoing or have previously undergone breast cancer surgery. Reconstruction is a personal decision, and not every patient chooses to pursue it.
You may consider breast reconstruction if:
- You are planning reconstruction at the time of a mastectomy or lumpectomy
- You previously had cancer surgery but did not undergo reconstruction and are now interested, even years later
- You had reconstruction in the past and would like to revise or improve the results for better size, shape, or symmetry
Ideal candidates typically:
- Are undergoing or have completed treatment for breast cancer
- Are in good overall health
- Do not smoke, or are willing to stop before surgery
- Have realistic expectations regarding outcomes and recovery
It is also important for patients to know that many reconstruction procedures are covered by insurance. Under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998, insurance plans are required to cover breast reconstruction and related procedures, including revisions, symmetry procedures, and reconstruction performed years after the initial cancer surgery. In many cases, this may be available with only a small co-pay, making it worthwhile to review your individual benefits.
Your consultation includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, treatment plan, and personal goals, helping determine the most appropriate approach.
Your Procedure
Breast reconstruction procedures vary depending on the technique selected. Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and may be completed in stages.
The process may involve placement of implants, transfer of tissue from another area of the body, fat grafting, or a combination of these techniques. Dr. Singh carefully plans each procedure to preserve blood supply, optimize healing, and achieve the most natural possible result.
Recovery and Results
Recovery varies based on the type of reconstruction performed. Some patients return to light activity within a few weeks, while more complex procedures may require a longer recovery period.
Swelling and healing progress gradually, and final results continue to improve over time. As a woman’s body changes with age, weight fluctuations, and time, breast reconstruction can also be updated, refined, or revised if needed to maintain balance and symmetry.
The goal of breast reconstruction is to restore a sense of balance and normalcy, helping patients feel more comfortable in their body following cancer treatment.
Before and After Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction results are highly individualized. Outcomes depend on factors such as anatomy, treatment history, and the type of reconstruction performed. The goal is always to achieve a natural shape and symmetry that aligns with your body.
You can explore real patient results in our before and after gallery to better understand what is possible with breast reconstruction.
Why Patients Choose Washingtonian Plastic Surgery
Patients choose Dr. Singh for his combination of surgical expertise, academic background, and personalized approach to care. His training at Brown, Harvard, and Johns Hopkins, along with his experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, allows him to approach each case with precision and perspective.
Our practice provides attentive, individualized care in a private setting, with a focus on comfort, discretion, and thoughtful guidance throughout the reconstruction process.
Schedule Your Consultation
To learn more about breast cancer reconstruction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Navin Singh. Our McLean office serves patients throughout Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland.
Call 703 260 9680 or request your appointment online.
