Breast loss following cancer treatment, trauma, or preventive surgery can change how you feel in your body and in daily life. Many women describe feeling disconnected from their appearance or uncertain about what comes next after a mastectomy. Breast reconstruction procedures offer a way to rebuild breast shape while supporting emotional recovery and long-term comfort.
Dr. Megan Fracol, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, performs this surgery in Chicago, IL. She works closely with patients to explain their choices clearly and guide them through every stage of reconstruction with care and respect.
What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a surgical process designed to recreate the shape of one or both breasts after tissue loss. Reconstruction may be performed using breast implants, your own tissue, or a combination of both approaches. The goal is to restore breast contour in a way that aligns with your body, medical history, and personal goals.
Breast reconstruction can be performed:
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At the same time as a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction)
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Months or years later (delayed reconstruction)
Benefits of Breast Reconstruction
While reconstruction is a personal choice, many patients pursue it for reasons such as:
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Restoring breast symmetry and shape
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Improving comfort in clothing
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Reducing reliance on external prostheses
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Supporting emotional healing after cancer treatment
Reconstruction does not interfere with cancer monitoring and does not increase the risk of recurrence.
Ideal Candidates
Breast reconstruction may be an option for patients who:
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Have had or will undergo a mastectomy
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Are undergoing preventive breast removal due to genetic risk
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Are in stable overall health
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Want to explore surgical options after breast loss
Dr. Fracol evaluates each patient individually, taking into account cancer treatment plans, body structure, and personal preferences before recommending a reconstructive approach.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
There are two primary reconstruction categories.
Autologous Breast Reconstruction
The autologous approach uses your own tissue, often from the abdomen or thigh, to rebuild the breast. It may involve advanced microsurgical techniques such as DIEP or PAP flap reconstruction.
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
The implant-based option uses saline or silicone implants to recreate breast shape. Some patients require tissue expanders before implant placement, while others may qualify for direct-to-implant reconstruction.
What to Expect During the Process
Breast reconstruction typically involves:
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A detailed consultation and medical review
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Surgical planning coordinated with oncology care when needed
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Hospital-based surgery at Northwestern-affiliated hospitals
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Follow-up visits focused on healing and long-term outcomes
The number of surgeries and recovery time vary depending on the reconstruction method chosen.
Recovery and Healing
Recovery timelines differ by procedure. Most patients gradually return to normal routines over several weeks, with swelling and changes improving over time. Dr. Fracol provides clear recovery guidance and ongoing follow-up to support healing and long-term results.
Why Choose Dr. Megan Fracol for Breast Reconstruction in Chicago, IL?
Dr. Megan Fracol earned her medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania and completed her residency at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University. She also completed advanced fellowship training in microsurgical reconstruction at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Dr. Fracol has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications and presents regularly at national surgical meetings. Her hospital affiliations include Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, where she is committed to patient education and individualized surgical planning.
Move Forward After Breast Loss
Breast reconstruction is about restoring form while supporting your sense of self after a major life event. Dr. Megan Fracol provides thoughtful guidance, clear communication, and reconstructive care rooted in experience. To discuss breast reconstruction options in Chicago, IL, call (312) 695-6022 and book a consultation.