Breast reconstruction talk by Woy Woy surgeon

Brisbane Waters Private Hospital will hold a free information seminar on breast reconstruction and plastic surgery by Dr Peter Laniewski at Erina on May 27.

The seminar will give members of the public the opportunity to learn more about the surgery and ask questions to a highly regarded plastic surgeon.

"Breast reconstruction is one of the most rewarding aspects of reconstructive plastic surgery," Dr Laniewski said.

"The surgical techniques have been greatly refined and patients are benefiting from these recent technological innovations.

"Patients and their partners are frequently amazed by what can be achieved.

"The techniques used in Australia are at the cutting edge of what is available anywhere in the world.

"Our specialist surgical training and the standard of surgery offered by fully qualified plastic and reconstructive surgeons is internationally renowned.

"You won't find a cosmetic surgeon attempting these complex and challenging procedures, they are well beyond the reach of their technical ability."

Dr Laniewski said patients had the option of helping choose the style of reconstruction which suits them best.

"Like anything each type of reconstruction has its advantages," Dr Laniewski said.

"Implants alone can be an ideal choice for some women.

"The main advantage of this style of reconstruction is its relative simplicity and preservation of other body tissues.

"When implants are used, there is no need for scars elsewhere.

"Used correctly in the correct choice of patient the results will be excellent.

"The main drawback is the requirement of multiple stages to achieve the reconstruction. "Immediately following the mastectomy there is insufficient skin and soft tissue to cover an implant.

"This is overcome with the use of a tissue expander.

"A tissue expander is a balloon which is progressively filled with sterile saline over a few weeks.

"The expansion is painless.

"Once the tissues have stabilised, the balloon is removed and replaced with a prosthesis (implant).

"This is a win-win situation.

"The patient gains a flat, toned abdomen removing the ravages of childbirth and receives in its place a new breast."

The free information session with Brisbane Waters Private Hospital plastic surgeon Dr Laniewski will take place at Erina Library from 7pm.

To making a booking, phone Sue on 4343 0267 or email susan.overton@healthscope.com.au

Press release, 7 May 2009 Dr Peter Laniewski, Brisbane Waters Private Hospital