Breast Reconstruction

Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy) with use of tissue expansion, so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all. But bear in mind, post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is not a simple procedure. There are often many options to consider.

 

Average Length

Variable

 

Anesthesia

General

 

Inpatient/Outpatient

Inpatient

 

Risks

Bleeding, infection, temporary or permanent numbness, uneven positioning or shape of breasts, poor incision healing, partial or complete loss of the flap, breast hardening, capsular contraction or implant failure and need for revision surgery.

 

Recovery

Usually back to work in 1 to 4 weeks, avoid physical contact with breasts and strenuous activityfor 3 to 6 weeks.

 

                                Am I Good Candidate?

The best candidates, are women whose cancer, as far as can be determined, seems to have been eliminated by mastectomy. That being said, there are legitimate reasons to wait. Many women aren't comfortable weighing all the options while they're struggling to cope with a diagnosis of cancer. Others simply don't want to have any more surgery than is absolutely necessary. Some patients may be advised by their surgeons to wait, particularly if the breast is being rebuilt in a more complicated procedure using flaps of skin and underlying tissue. Women with other health conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure, or smoking, may also be advised to wait.

In any case, being informed of your reconstruction options before surgery can help you prepare for a mastectomy with a more positive outlook for the future.