Breast reconstruction is achieved through several reconstructive plastic surgery techniques that attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape. 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 your plastic surgeon to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is not a simple procedure. There are many options to consider as you and your plastic surgeon explore what is best for you. Breast reconstruction is an effective way to rebuild the breast and can spare you the emotional trauma associated with the loss of a breast.
This surgery can be done immediately at the time of mastectomy or delayed to a later date depending on the type of surgery.
Good Candidates For Breast Reconstruction Are:
-
Able to cope well with their diagnosis and treatment
-
Do not have medical conditions or other illnesses that may impair healing
-
Non-smokers
-
Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals for restoring their breast and body image
General Procedure
Techniques for breast reconstruction vary; however, a number of surgical methods may be used to rebuild the breast, either using implants or one's own tissue (flap reconstruction)
In simple cases, the chest skin is stretched and an implant is inserted beneath the chest muscle. The nipple and areola are reconstructed in a later procedure.
In more complex cases, a skin expander is employed. Your surgeon will insert a balloon expander beneath your skin and chest muscle. Through a tiny valve mechanism located beneath the skin, your surgeon will periodically inject salt-water solution to gradually fill the expander over several weeks or months. After the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the expander will be removed in a second operation, and a permanent implant will be inserted.
Flap Reconstruction: An alternative approach to implant reconstruction involves using a tissue flap taken from other parts of the body, such as the back, abdomen, or buttocks. Although this procedure is associated with a longer recovery period, it allows for reconstruction of your breast with your own tissue.
Secondary surgery may be required to reconstruct the nipple-areola complex and correct asymmetry.
Recovery Process
Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time. Bandages are applied immediately following surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts. Once the bandages are removed, a specialized surgical bra will need to be worn for several weeks. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery. Any pain can be treated with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the instructions given after surgery.