Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Manhattan, NY
Reconstruction by
a Trusted Expert
- Fellowship-trained in advanced microvascular breast reconstruction
- Director of breast reconstruction at Lenox Hill Hospital
- Offers implants, natural tissue reconstruction, and sensory restoration
- Authority in DIEP flap and microvascular techniques
Why Choose Dr. Lerman?
Fellowship-Trained Microvascular Expertise
After completing his plastic surgery residency, Dr. Oren Lerman pursued an additional clinical fellowship dedicated to advanced breast reconstruction and microvascular surgery, including DIEP, PAP, TUG, SGAP, and stacked flap reconstruction.
Training the Next Generation of Surgeons
As director of the Microvascular and Cosmetic Breast Fellowship, Dr. Lerman oversees the training of surgeons in DIEP flap and advanced reconstructive techniques. Teaching at this level requires consistent outcomes, deep anatomical knowledge, and mastery of complex surgical decision-making.
Leadership at Lenox Hill Hospital
Dr. Lerman serves as Director of Breast Reconstruction at Lenox Hill Hospital’s Institute for Comprehensive Breast Care and is an Attending Physician in the Department of Plastic Surgery.
Comprehensive, Unbiased Reconstructive Options
Dr. Lerman offers the full spectrum of breast reconstruction, including implant-based reconstruction, autologous tissue procedures, immediate and delayed reconstruction, and Resensation® nerve grafting. This allows surgical planning to be guided by patient anatomy, cancer treatment, and long-term goals rather than technique limitations.
Take the First Step Today
Choosing breast reconstruction is a personal and often complex decision. Dr. Lerman approaches each consultation with care, clarity, and respect for the medical and emotional considerations involved. During your visit, he will review your medical history, explain your options in detail, and coordinate care with your oncology team when appropriate. To better understand your reconstructive options and determine the most appropriate approach for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation today.
“Dr. Lerman is a miracle worker! Dr. Lerman performed my DIEP flap nipple sparing reconstruction on the very same day that I had mastectomies (something that three other surgeons in New Jersey told me was impossible). I left with breasts that looked amazing. No expanding, no heartache. His expertise and skill are unmatched. I am so grateful for having had him as my surgeon.” Joan, 5-Star Review
Insurance Coverage
for Breast Reconstruction
Under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998, most health plans that cover mastectomy are also required to cover breast reconstruction. This federal law applies to both group and individual insurance plans and includes coverage for:
- All stages of reconstruction
- Procedures to achieve breast symmetry
- Prostheses
- Treatment of complications such as lymphedema.
Certain plans may be exempt, and coverage details can vary by insurer. Dr. Lerman’s office regularly works with insurance providers to clarify benefits, present appropriate clinical documentation, and help patients understand coverage prior to surgery.
Breast reconstruction is surgery performed to restore the breast following mastectomy or, in some cases, lumpectomy. It may also be used to correct breast deformities or address changes related to cancer treatment. Many patients also pursue reconstruction following prophylactic mastectomy to reduce cancer risk.
While some individuals are comfortable with their appearance after mastectomy, others find the physical changes difficult. These concerns are often compounded by the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Lerman works to achieve the best results in both the medical and aesthetic aspects of reconstruction.
Breast Reconstruction Techniques
Dr. Lerman offers several breast reconstruction techniques to help you look and feel your best.
- Microvascular (Natural Tissue) Breast Reconstruction
- DIEP & PAP Perforator Flap Natural Tissue Breast Reconstruction
- Restoring Sensation after Mastectomy with Nerve Grafting
- Breast Implant Reconstruction
- Pre-Pectoral (in Front of the Muscle) Implant Breast Reconstruction
- Corrective / Revision of Previous Breast Reconstruction
- Single-Stage Direct-to-ImplantReconstruction
- Form Stable (Gummy Bear) Implant Reconstruction
- Mastectomy
- Double Mastectomy
- Nipple Sparing Mastectomy & Reconstruction
- BRCA+ and Prophylactic Mastectomy
- Immediate Breast Reconstruction
Reclaim Your Confidence
With Breast Reconstruction
Restoring a natural-looking bustline is one of the most important things for so many women who have undergone mastectomy. Dr. Oren Lerman specializes in providing results that make women feel beautiful and confident in their figures. He can perform your reconstruction according to your unique specifications or artfully correct previous results from another doctor that you aren't fully satisfied with.
Coordinated Care With
Your Oncologist
Our plastic surgeon in Manhattan, NY, accepts referrals from oncologists and works collaboratively with a patient’s care team to develop a safe, well-coordinated reconstruction plan.
Patients are invited to explore before-and-after photos or contact one of Dr. Lerman’s New York–area offices to begin the consultation process.
Flap Reconstruction Offers an Alternative to Implants
Many patients are candidates for flap reconstruction but are not always informed of this option. Flap procedures use a patient’s own tissue to recreate the breast mound. These procedures often result in a breast that looks and feels more natural. Dr. Lerman has performed hundreds of DIEP flap and other perforator flap reconstructions and can help determine whether this approach is appropriate for you.
Types of Flap Reconstruction Surgery
Pedicled Flap
Pedicled flap reconstruction transfers tissue to the breast while keeping the original blood supply intact. While historically common, this approach is used less frequently today.
Free Flap
Free flap reconstruction completely detaches the tissue and reconnects it to new blood vessels using microsurgical techniques. This approach requires specialized training and allows for greater precision and muscle preservation. Dr. Lerman is an authority in this technique.
Other Donor Areas
When abdominal tissue is not an option, Dr. Lerman may recommend alternative donor sites, including:
SGAP Flap: Uses tissue from the buttocks
PAP Flap: Uses tissue from the posterior thigh
TUG Flap: Uses tissue from the inner thigh
TAP Flap: Uses tissue from the back
Stacked Flaps: Combines two flaps to reconstruct one breast
Dr. Lerman Will Help You Make an Informed Decision
Dr. Lerman believes patients should have a clear understanding of all reconstructive options before making decisions. He works closely with patients and their healthcare providers to develop a plan that prioritizes safety, function, and long-term outcomes. It all starts with a consultation.
“Dr. Lerman performed an immediate DIEP flap reconstruction, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have him as my surgeon during this critical chapter of my life. From the first consultation, his knowledge and attention to detail were evident.” - Kika, 5-Star Review
Breast Reconstruction Candidates
You may be a good candidate for breast reconstruction if:
- You have had or currently have breast cancer and have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy
- You have suffered an injury or other circumstances have altered the appearance of your bustline
- You do not have medical conditions that would impair healing
- You have realistic goals and are able to discuss expectations openly with your surgeon
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Implant-based reconstruction is the most common form of breast reconstruction in the United States and may be appropriate for certain patients. This approach is often performed in two stages.
Tissue Expander
A tissue expander may be placed at the time of mastectomy to gradually stretch the skin and muscle. Patients return periodically for expansion visits.
Implant Placement
A saline or silicone implant is placed during a second procedure, typically several months later, once the tissue has adequately healed.
Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction
Some patients may be candidates for direct-to-implant reconstruction, which is performed at the time of mastectomy and eliminates the need for a tissue expander. The permanent implant is reinforced with AlloDerm® Tissue Matrix to support shape, symmetry, and contour.
Immediate Versus Delayed Reconstruction
Immediate reconstruction begins on the same day as mastectomy and often results in more favorable aesthetic outcomes. Delayed reconstruction may be recommended when additional cancer treatments, such as radiation, are required.
Patients who did not undergo immediate reconstruction are often still candidates for delayed reconstruction months or even years later.
Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction
Nipple-sparing mastectomy preserves the nipple and skin while removing underlying breast tissue. When combined with advanced reconstruction techniques, results can appear natural and well-proportioned. Dr. Lerman can determine candidacy during consultation.
Preventative Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction
Patients at high risk for breast cancer, including those with BRCA gene mutations, may choose preventative mastectomy with reconstruction. This decision involves careful consideration of medical history, lifestyle, and insurance coverage and is rarely urgent.
Finalizing Your Breast Reconstruction
Breast and Nipple Resensation
Dr. Lerman offers Resensation® nerve grafting, a microsurgical technique that may help restore sensation following mastectomy by reconnecting nerves in the reconstructed breast.
Nipple Reconstruction
Once healing is complete, nipple and areola reconstruction may be performed using local tissue and 3D medical tattooing to restore appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reconstruction
Q. Will insurance cover breast reconstruction surgery?
A. Most insurance plans that cover mastectomy are required to cover reconstruction under federal law. Coverage varies by plan.
Q. How long does it take to recover from surgery?
A. Recovery typically takes six to eight weeks, depending on the procedure performed.
Q. Does breast construction hurt?
A. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Postoperative discomfort is expected and managed with appropriate care.
