Breast Reconstruction Surgery in San Antonio
Compassionate, Expert Care to Help You Heal—Inside and Out
Breast reconstruction is not about vanity or unrealistic fears of not feeling yourself—it’s real.
Reconstruction matters because it helps you move from survivor to THRIVER.
Many women delay or avoid the conversation because the fear of the diagnosis is overwhelming. They worry about how they’ll feel in their own skin, in intimate moments, or simply looking in the mirror. Dr. O'Toole understands—and she works closely with oncology teams across San Antonio to make sure you know your options early and clearly, so you can make a supported decision with confidence and peace of mind.
Dr. O'Toole is committed to patient education. Whether you’re planning ahead for a lumpectomy, recovering from a mastectomy, or seeking revision reconstruction after a prior surgery, she’ll guide you through what to expect at every stage.
Dr. Megan O'Toole offers personalized breast reconstruction surgery in San Antonio that blends surgical excellence with genuine compassion. From your first consult to your final follow-up, she’s in your corner—helping you navigate this complex journey with the respect and confidence you deserve.
Why Women Trust Dr. Megan O'Toole for Breast Reconstruction
Dr. O'Toole brings specialized training in complex reconstructive surgical procedures as well as revision surgery. She’s performed numerous reconstruction surgeries and taken on complex patients “no one else” was willing to help. She’s passionate about making sure patients are well informed—so they can confidently navigate tough decisions, knowing what to expect from each option.
She prioritizes working closely with your individual cancer treatment team to ensure everyone is on the same page from the very beginning.
A Female Plastic Surgeon Who Understands the Emotional Journey
Dr. O'Toole understands the role your breasts play in both your femininity and your sense of self.
Too often, reconstruction is dismissed or delayed—but Dr. O'Toole works hard to make sure you don’t just beat cancer, but also make it to the finish line feeling like yourself again. Her patients feel heard, supported, and empowered to choose what’s best for them—without pressure, without judgment.
She offers honest guidance, not pressure, and collaborates with each patient and their care team to treat the whole person—you’re not just a diagnosis or a number.
Understanding Your Options for Breast Reconstruction
What Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Breast reconstruction restores the shape, symmetry, and appearance of the breast after your breast tissue is removed. This can happen with both mastectomies and lumpectomies.
Dr. O'Toole firmly believes every woman should be offered the opportunity to comfortably wear clothing and feel restored in their own skin.
She understands how deeply breasts can impact your sense of self, femininity, and confidence—and she wants you to feel empowered, not ashamed, in seeking care.
She does not see reconstruction as vanity—she prioritizes it as the final stage of your cancer treatment.
If you’re looking in the mirror and wondering whether you’ll feel like yourself again, you’re not alone. And you’re not in the wrong for wanting to reclaim that figure and confidence.
Who Is a Candidate?
- Newly diagnosed?
You can often have immediate reconstruction. Dr. OToole will coordinate with your current cancer team (oncologist, breast surgeon, etc.)—or help you find the best one for you. - Already had a mastectomy, but was never reconstructed?
You are likely eligible for delayed reconstruction and Dr. OToole can go over your options depending on your goals and treatment plan moving forward. - Unhappy with previous reconstruction?
Dr. OToole specializes in complex revision reconstruction surgery and isn’t afraid to tackle even the most challenging cases. - Had a lumpectomy or radiation?
You may still be a candidate for reconstruction. Dr. OToole will walk through your options with compassion and clarity.
Every patient is different. Reconstruction is always an option, and Dr. OToole will make sure you find the right fit for your body, goals, and recovery timeline.
When Can Reconstruction Be Performed?
- Immediate Reconstruction:
Performing the reconstruction at the same time as the breast surgeon performs your mastectomy.
If you’re planning a lumpectomy, you may also be a candidate for an oncoplastic reduction. In this case, Dr. O'Toole coordinates with your breast surgeon to perform a breast reduction during the same surgery. - Delayed Reconstruction:
Weeks, months, or even years later—every woman is entitled, by law, to be reconstructed. Dr. O'Toole meticulously reviews your medical history and goals to ensure every surgery is safe and appropriate. It’s never too late to feel comfortable in your own skin again. - Radiation Therapy Considerations:
Dr. O'Toole specializes in complex reconstruction following radiation damage. She tailors your reconstruction plan to your individual needs, helping you determine what’s right for your body and timeline.
Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Implant-Based Reconstruction
Implant-based reconstruction often begins with the placement of a tissue expander at the time of mastectomy or after you already had a mastectomy (delayed). The expander creates a pocket and stretches the skin to form an appropriate breast mound. Later, it is exchanged for a permanent implant. Additional procedures may be performed to refine the appearance and symmetry of the breasts.
Benefits:
- Shorter, safer surgery – can often be done as an outpatient procedure
- Quicker, less painful recovery
- Shape and size can be adjusted – not limited by the amount of existing tissue
- No additional incisions on other areas of your body
Considerations:
- Some patients may not be a candidate
- Implant-related complications such as rupture may require additional surgery
- Long-term maintenance is possible
Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction
Autologous is the fancy doctor word for “your own tissue.” These types of reconstruction use your own tissue—most commonly from your abdomen, but other donor sites can also be used. The tissue is moved to your breast area and can either be used to create a new breast mound or support a future implant.
Common options include:
- DIEP flap – Uses abdominal skin and fat while preserving muscle.
This requires a microscope to reconnect blood vessels and is known as “microsurgery.” - TRAM flap – Rotates abdominal tissue, including a portion of muscle,
to the chest wall while keeping the blood supply intact. - Latissimus dorsi flap – Uses muscle and skin from the upper back,
and usually requires an implant for additional volume.
Benefits:
- It is your own tissue
- No implants required
Considerations:
- More complex, longer surgery, with longer recovery time
- Not everyone is a candidate for this surgery
- Size is limited by the patient’s donor tissue
Dr. O'Toole will help you compare options based on your goals, anatomy, cancer treatment, and lifestyle.
Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Depending on your mastectomy, you may be eligible for a nipple-sparing mastectomy. If not, reconstruction can be performed using:
- Surgical nipple reconstruction
- 3D tattooing for a realistic appearance without additional incisions
This is often the final stage of reconstruction and is done after the appropriate amount of time has passed for the breasts to settle. These options will be discussed and can be personalized to your preferences.
Your Journey: From Consultation to Healing
Step 1 – Personalized Consultation
In a private, no-pressure setting, Dr. O'Toole will review your medical history, oncologic diagnosis and recommended treatment plan, and personal goals. She’ll collaborate with your oncology team and surgeon to determine the best time and type of reconstruction .
Step 2 – First Stage of Surgery
Depending on your chosen approach, this may involve:
- Tissue expander placement
- Implant insertion
- DIEP, TRAM, or latissimus dorsi flap
Performed under general anesthesia in an accredited operating room.
Step 3 – Follow-Up Procedures
You may need additional surgeries to:
- Exchange expanders for implants
- Add fat grafting for refinement
- Create symmetry with the other breast
- Reconstruct the nipple and areola
Step 4 – Recovery and Ongoing Support
Dr. O'Toole provides:
- Post-op instructions for drains, support garments, and pain management
- Follow-up visits for healing and emotional support
- Guidance and clear communication with your oncology treatment team to help you understand what's next and what to expect.
- Scar management protocols and confidence-boosting care
What to Expect After Breast Reconstruction Surgery
- Week 1–2:
Limited activity, support garments, and rest. You’ll receive personalized guidance on drain care, medications, and safe movement. - Weeks 3–6:
Gradual return to light activity. Many women are able to return to work during this time. - Months 2–6:
Continued healing. Additional treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy may occur during this window if part of your overall care plan. - Finalization:
Any revision or second-stage procedure required to finalize your reconstruction with the best cosmetic and functional result.
Some women require multiple revisions—and as a breast cancer survivor, you’re protected by law for revisional surgeries to ensure you’re happy with your final breast appearance. - Full recovery:
Varies based on your body, surgical plan, and treatment history—but emotional and clinical support continues from our team long after surgery.
Before and After Photos: Rebuilding with Strength and Grace
We honor the privacy of our breast reconstruction patients, but with consent, we’ve shared a few examples to show what’s possible.
[View Our Reconstruction Gallery →]
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to choose between implants and flap surgery?
No. Dr. O'Toole will help you weigh the pros and cons of each based on your preferences and cancer history.
Can I delay reconstruction?
Yes. Whether it’s been months or years since your mastectomy, reconstruction is still an option.
Will I regain sensation in the breast?
Most women experience some loss of sensation, especially after mastectomy. Some feeling may return over time, but results vary.
How many surgeries will I need?
Breast reconstruction is usually a staged process. Many patients have 2–3 surgeries for optimal results, but some require fewer.
What if I’ve had radiation therapy?
Flap-based reconstruction is often preferred after radiation. Dr. OToole will assess your skin and tissue to make a safe recommendation.
You Deserve to Feel Whole Again
You’ve been through enough. Dr. O’Toole’s mission is to help you heal—physically, emotionally, and beautifully.
With deep expertise in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, she provides breast cancer survivors across San Antonio with the care, empathy, and results they deserve.
Her patients say it best:
“Dr. O'Toole helped me feel like me again.”
Schedule Your Breast Reconstruction Consultation Today
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your survivorship, we’re here when you’re ready.
Coordinating with oncology teams at MD Anderson, Methodist, Baptist, and more Discreet, one-on-one consultations in San Antonio
Compassionate care from a board-certified female plastic surgeon