Bedford Breast Center
436 N Bedford Dr, Ste 105
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: (310) 278-8590
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m.– 5 p.m.
Until recently, having immediate breast reconstruction without implants or extensive flap procedures wasn’t an option. The SWIM mastectomy (for skin-sparing, wise pattern, internal mammary perforator) offers cancer removal and natural breast reconstruction in a simplified, single-stage procedure, making it an appealing breast cancer reconstruction option to our Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Glendale, and Malibu patients.
Bedford Breast Center’s Dr. Lisa Cassileth, one of the top breast reconstruction surgeons in the Los Angeles area, developed the SWIM technique. It has revolutionized breast reconstruction by preserving healthy breast tissue and creating smaller, natural-looking breasts without implants. This innovative approach provides numerous advantages over traditional mastectomy techniques and opens new possibilities for patients with larger breasts.
The SWIM technique is a type of oncoplastic surgery that combines cancer removal with plastic surgery techniques to create an attractive, natural breast shape.
To learn more about the SWIM technique for breast reconstruction, please visit pubmed.gov.
The SWIM technique can be performed on one or both breasts and offers several advantages over traditional mastectomy and reconstruction:
The SWIM technique can be performed for prophylactic mastectomy. Depending on cancer status, most patients do not require radiation therapy or screening mammograms after having the procedure.
Dr. Richardson and Dr. Memsic are two of the top breast surgeons in Los Angeles, using innovative techniques to create excellent clinical and aesthetic outcomes.
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The technique is well suited to women with large or sagging breasts who want to maintain a natural-looking breast shape. It provides an alternative for patients who prefer to avoid implants, flap reconstruction, extensive incisions, longer recovery times, or multiple surgical procedures. Additionally, patients who may not be eligible for traditional breast reconstruction because of health issues, radiation injury, or weight may find the SWIM technique a viable option.
To better understand how this procedure is performed, think of it as having two parts or stages. The initial step involves the mastectomy, during which breast tissue is removed while preserving the skin and underlying fat. In the second stage, the surgeon skillfully reshapes the remaining skin, fat, and breast tissue to create a new breast mound. The technique does not involve cutting or removing any muscle, nor does it require the use of tissue from other areas of the body. The final result is a smaller breast with scars resembling a breast reduction procedure.
“I have had breast cancer twice and I can honestly say I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without the support of the whole staff at the Bedford Breast Center. The first doctor I spoke to after my first diagnosis was Dr. Memsic and she completely calmed me down. She is not only a great surgeon, but an amazing human being. I also had Dr. Cassileth as one of my plastic surgeons. Her attention to detail and perfectionism are outstanding. Any time someone comes to me asking for referrals, I send them to the Bedford Breast Center. The office is clean and warm and the staff are fantastic.”
Stacey R. – Google
Recovery varies from patient to patient, and it is essential to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions carefully. We recommend staying at an aftercare facility for 1 to 2 nights post-surgery. Our aftercare nurses will remain in close communication during your recovery to ensure a smooth healing process.
After surgery, patients may experience some discomfort and bruising, which may be managed with prescribed pain medication. Compression garments are recommended during the weeks after surgery to reduce swelling. Most patients can resume their daily routines within 1 to 2 weeks and return to work and light exercise. However, it is important to avoid heavy lifting for about 6 weeks.
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Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
The breast surgeons at Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills are innovative physicians who provide compassionate, personalized patient care. Our world-class facility serves patients from Los Angeles throughout Los Angeles, Southern California, and nationwide. To learn more about our center and if SWIM mastectomy and reconstruction is a good option for you, call us at (310) 278-8590 or contact us using the online form to schedule an appointment.
