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For women considering reconstruction after breast cancer treatment

Restoring Form and Confidence After
Breast Cancer

Breast reconstruction is a deeply personal choice. We focus on thoughtful planning and individualized options that support your recovery goals and your sense of self.
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Expert breast reconstruction for women navigating life after breast cancer.


Breast cancer takes a toll beyond the diagnosis and treatment—it impacts how you see yourself and feel in your body. At the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, we believe that rebuilding after cancer is more than a procedure—it's a vital part of healing.

Our reconstructive surgeons are national leaders in breast reconstruction. Whether you’re preparing for a mastectomy or exploring your options after cancer treatment, we’re here to help you restore what matters most, with care that’s as personalized as it is advanced.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Meet the Team

Our care is delivered by a team of highly specialized, board-certified surgeons with advanced fellowship training in hand, tendon, and nerve procedures. We don’t take a generalist approach — we live and breathe hand surgery. With national recognition in microsurgical technique and a patient-first mindset, our team is built for precision and results. From the moment your finger stops moving the way it should, we know exactly how to help you get it back.

Ajul Shah, MD, FACS

A double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with national recognition in microsurgery, Dr. Shah brings unmatched skill to tendon and nerve release procedures — including complex cases of trigger finger.

Hari Iyer, MD, FAAOS

An orthopedic hand specialist with fellowship training, Dr. Iyer focuses on restoring full range of motion through minimally invasive solutions tailored to each patient's needs.

David Tsai, MD

Fellowship-trained in hand and upper extremity surgery, Dr. Tsai blends surgical precision with a strong focus on patient communication and recovery outcomes.

Peter Andrawes, MD

Known for his meticulous microsurgical work, Dr. Andrawes treats a wide range of hand and finger conditions — always with close attention to tendon and soft tissue dynamics.

Mark Yazid, MD

Dr. Mark Yazid is a plastic surgeon with specialized expertise in hand conditions, including trigger finger. He provides comprehensive care using the latest surgical and non-surgical techniques to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve function in patients affected by tendon-related hand disorders.

Sidney Rabinowitz, MD, FACS

With decades of experience, Dr. Rabinowitz is a pioneer in hand surgery and a trusted name for patients seeking function-restoring care.

Why Choose Breast Reconstruction at The Institute?

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Advanced Microsurgical Expertise
Our surgeons are leaders in techniques like DIEP Flap, PAP Flap, and hybrid procedures that restore breast shape using your own tissue, with natural-looking results.

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Restoration That’s Personal, Not One-Size-Fits-All
You deserve options. We tailor your procedure to your body, goals, lifestyle, and recovery timeline—from implants to autologous reconstruction.

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Focused on What Healing Really Means
Reconstruction is a powerful part of the survivorship journey, and we will walk you through it with honesty, compassion, and respect.
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Total Collaboration with Your Cancer Team
We work closely with your breast surgeon, oncologist, and radiation team to plan your reconstruction safely and effectively, whether immediate or delayed.
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Aesthetic and Emotional Restoration
This isn’t cosmetic surgery—it’s restorative care. Our approach prioritizes body image, confidence, and wholeness after loss.
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Recognized Nationally, Trusted Locally
Patients from across the country—and right here in New Jersey—turn to our team for reconstruction after complex cases, failed procedures, or high-risk diagnoses.

Meet the Team

The Institute is home to a highly experienced team of reconstructive breast surgeons, known for their advanced surgical skill and compassionate, patient-centered care. Our specialists bring deep expertise in implant-based and autologous reconstruction techniques and a shared commitment to helping women restore their sense of self after breast cancer. We don’t just rebuild—we listen, understand, and deliver care that transforms lives.

Schedule a Consultation

What Sets Our Team Apart?

Reconstruction after breast cancer isn’t just about how you look—it’s about how you feel. At The Institute, we bring world-class surgical skill, genuine empathy, and a deep respect for your journey to every patient we serve. We know this is about more than a medical decision. It’s about helping you feel whole again, on your terms.
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Breast Reconstruction with Sensation & Symmetry | Dr. Joseph Dayan’s Innovative Approach

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Breast Reconstruction - Essential Surgery & Recovery Guide

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Breast Reconstruction Options: Implants vs Natural Tissue

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Grateful and Blessed: Helen's Breast Reconstruction Journey with Dr. Ibrahim

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Breast Reconstruction Options Explained | Dr. Usal

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Breast Reconstruction Options After Mastectomy | Dr. Karen Kaplan

What to Expect: Before, During, and After Surgery

Before Your Procedure

01
We’ll meet with you to understand your cancer treatment plan, surgical history, and goals for reconstruction. Whether you’re planning immediate or delayed surgery, we’ll guide you through your options and design a plan that fits your body and recovery timeline.

During Treatment

02
Depending on the technique used—autologous tissue, implants, or hybrid—your surgeon will rebuild the breast shape under general anesthesia. Procedures vary in complexity and duration, and may be coordinated with mastectomy or performed later.

After Treatment

03
You’ll recover with support from our care team, including follow-ups, wound care, and rehab if needed. Recovery time varies depending on the procedure, but most patients return to light activity within weeks and report improved body image and comfort over time. 

Insurance & Financing

The Institute participates in a wide range of insurance plans, including Horizon, Cigna, and other major carriers.

Federal law requires insurance to cover breast reconstruction post-mastectomy. Our team will help confirm your benefits and explore any financial assistance options you may need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my options for reconstruction?
We offer implant-based, autologous (your own tissue), and combination procedures tailored to your anatomy and goals.
Can I have reconstruction at the same time as my mastectomy?
Yes, many patients choose immediate reconstruction. Others opt to delay, especially if radiation is part of their treatment plan. It is essential to realize that breast reconstruction is a process and typically has two or more phases, but there are options for single-stage reconstruction.
Does insurance cover reconstruction?
Yes. Federal law mandates that insurance cover breast reconstruction after mastectomy, including symmetry procedures.
What is DIEP Flap surgery?
It’s a form of reconstruction using tissue from the lower abdomen to create a natural-appearing breast made from your own tissues, with muscle preservation for faster recovery.
What if I had radiation therapy?
Our planning considers radiation history and offers reconstruction techniques that work well even after radiation.
Can I still choose reconstruction if I’ve already had cancer treatment?
Absolutely. Delayed reconstruction is a common and effective option.
Will I have scars?
Yes, but our surgeons use careful techniques to minimize and conceal scars whenever possible.
How long is the recovery process?
It varies. Implant reconstruction typically involves 2–4 weeks of downtime, while flap procedures may take 4–6 weeks.
Can I choose not to have reconstruction at all?
Yes. Reconstruction is a personal choice, and we respect every decision, including choosing not to pursue surgery.
Do you work with patients from out of state?
Yes. Many women travel to The Institute for breast reconstruction. We can help coordinate logistics and follow-up care.
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You Deserve to Feel Whole Again

Whether you’re beginning your breast cancer journey or reclaiming your body after treatment, our team is here to help you heal physically and emotionally through expert reconstructive surgery and personalized care.