BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
Breast reconstruction is achieved through several plastic surgery techniques that attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape, appearance and size following mastectomy.
WHAT IS BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape and appearance of a breast after it has been removed or partially removed (Mastectomy). It is achieved through several plastic surgery techniques that attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape, appearance and size.
Although breast reconstruction can rebuild your breast, the results are highly variable:
A reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation and feel as the breast it replaces. Visible incision lines will always be present on the breast, whether from reconstruction or mastectomy. Certain surgical techniques will leave incision lines at the donor site, commonly located in less exposed areas of the body such as the back, abdomen or buttocks.
A note about symmetry: If only one breast is affected, it alone may be reconstructed. In addition, a breast lift, breast reduction or breast augmentation may be recommended for the opposite breast to improve symmetry of the size and position of both breasts.
WHY CHOOSE BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?
Breast reconstruction is a physically and emotionally rewarding procedure for a woman who has lost a breast due to cancer or other condition.
The creation of a new breast can dramatically improve your self-image, self-confidence and quality of life. Although surgery can give you a relatively natural-looking breast, a reconstructed breast will never look or feel exactly the same as the breast that was removed.
IS IT RIGHT FOR ME?
Breast reconstruction is a highly individualized procedure. You should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.
Breast reconstruction is a good option for you if:
You are able to cope well with your diagnosis and treatment
You do not have additional medical conditions or other illnesses that may impair healing
You have a positive outlook and realistic goals for restoring your breast and body image
Breast reconstruction typically involves several procedures performed in multiple stages. It can:
Begin at the same time as mastectomy, or
Be delayed until you heal from mastectomy and recover from any additional cancer treatments
It’s important that you feel ready for the emotional adjustment involved in breast reconstruction. It may take some time to accept the results of breast reconstruction.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR CONSULTATION
The success and safety of your breast reconstruction procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. You’ll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.
Be prepared to discuss:
Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
Previous surgeries
The options available in breast reconstruction surgery
The likely outcomes of breast reconstruction and any risks or potential complications
The course of treatment recommended by your plastic surgeon, including procedures to achieve breast symmetry
Your surgeon may also:
Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
Examine your breasts, and take detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality, and placement of nipples and areolae
Take photographs for your medical record
Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
Discuss likely outcomes of breast reconstruction and any risks or potential complications