Choosing breast surgery after a mastectomy
The goal of breast reconstruction is to restore one or both breasts to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry, and size following mastectomy, lumpectomy, or other trauma. Breast reconstruction often involves several procedures performed in stages and can either begin at the time of mastectomy or be delayed until a later date.
Breast reconstruction generally falls into two categories: implant based reconstruction or flap reconstruction. Implant reconstruction relies on breast implants to help form a new breast mound. Flap reconstruction uses your own tissue from another part of the body to form a new breast. There are several factors that should be taken into consideration when choosing which option is best. The type of mastectomy your surgeon has recommended, your cancer treatments and your body type will be taken into account as we choose your reconstructive surgery.
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.
Although breast reconstruction can rebuild your breast, the results are highly variable. A reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation or feel as the breast it replaces. Also the incision lines will always be present on the breast, whether from reconstruction or mastectomy and 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.
Something to keep in mind while choosing breast surgery: 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.
During your consultation I will discuss your surgical goals, medical conditions and treatments, medications as well as alcohol, tobacco and drug use. I will evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors, examine your breasts and take measurements of their size and shape, skin quality, and placement of nipples and areola. We will then discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment and discuss likely outcomes of breast reconstruction and any risks or potential complications.
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