Making Women Feel Whole Through Breast Reconstruction
STEPHANIE MEYERS BAUTSCH’S battle with breast cancer began in 2005 when, at just 36 years old, she was diagnosed with hormonepositive breast cancer — a journey that would eventually lead her to Dr. Tandon for life-changing reconstructive surgery.
After having a lumpectomy, followed by chemotherapy and radiation, Stephanie spent the next 20 years closely watching for any signs of the cancer’s return. Each mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy, and MRI brought waves of anxiety, though thankfully, the cancer never returned.
In 2023, Stephanie underwent genomic testing and discovered a cancer gene mutation that significantly increased her breast cancer risk. Determined to reduce her chances of recurrence, she opted for a bilateral mastectomy. After thorough research and strong recommendations, she chose Dr. Tandon for the surgery.
After her successful bilateral mastectomy, Stephanie underwent a complex reconstruction using tissue from her abdomen and thighs.
“Dr. Tandon offered me something other plastic surgeons could not. He could reattach some of the nerves in the breast area to the tissue transferred from my stomach and thighs.”
The specialized nerve reconnection procedure that Dr. Tandon performed helped restore sensation to Stephanie’s breasts — a crucial outcome that eased her greatest fear of losing feeling.
Though her recovery was challenging the first week, it was worth it. With her breast cancer risk nearly zero and feeling whole once again, Stephanie feels profound relief. “I no longer live with the fear of waiting for test results,” she says.
Board-Certified Plastic surgeon Dr. Ravi Tandon specializes in breast reconstruction. He earned his medical degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and trained in general surgery at Tulane University Medical Center. Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, he focused on plastic surgery, later training in advanced microsurgery and reconstruction at New York University Medical Center. Dr.Tandon is passionate about assisting women through their mastectomy journeys and is dedicated to providing caring support every step of the way.
Dr. Ravi Tandon • Jansen, Tandon, & Guste Plastic Surgery • 3900 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Ste. 200 Metairie • 504-294- 8796 • ravitandonmd.com