Frequently Asked Questions

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater after placement, while silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive gel that many patients feel more closely mimics natural breast tissue. Both are FDA-approved options with distinct tradeoffs in feel, incision size, and monitoring needs, and the right choice depends on your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.

Most healthy adults who are unhappy with their breast size or shape and have realistic expectations are good candidates for breast augmentation. Factors like overall health, stable weight, and not being pregnant or breastfeeding are typically considered during evaluation, and a thorough in-person assessment helps confirm the safest approach for your individual anatomy.

Yes, breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a core part of the practice at Bangor Plastic and Hand Surgery. Reconstruction can be performed using implants, your own tissue, or a combination of both, and timing — whether immediate at the time of mastectomy or delayed — is planned in coordination with your oncology care team.

The practice offers a range of body contouring procedures including tummy tuck and liposuction to reshape and refine the body's contours. These procedures are often sought after significant weight loss or following pregnancy, and can be performed individually or combined depending on your goals and candidacy.

Recovery after a tummy tuck typically involves several weeks of limited activity, with most patients returning to light daily tasks within two to three weeks and avoiding strenuous exercise for six or more weeks. Liposuction generally has a shorter recovery timeline, though swelling and compression garment use are expected for several weeks in both cases.

Yes, federal law requires most insurance plans to cover breast reconstruction following a mastectomy, including implant-based and flap procedures. Coverage typically extends to both breasts to achieve a symmetrical result. It's worth confirming the specifics of your plan before surgery, and our team can help you understand what to expect during that process.

Reconstruction can begin immediately during your mastectomy — a approach called immediate reconstruction — or it can be delayed until after any additional cancer treatment is complete. Immediate reconstruction often reduces the number of surgeries needed and can preserve more of the natural breast skin. The right timing depends on your treatment plan and overall health, which we review carefully with each patient.

Flap-based reconstruction uses tissue from your own body — such as the abdomen or back — to rebuild the breast, and it is a well-established alternative to implants. It can produce a natural feel and may be a better fit for patients who prefer to avoid implants or have had prior radiation. A consultation allows us to evaluate which approach suits your anatomy and goals.