Breast Reconstruction
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Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to restore the appearance of a breast for women who have had a breast removed (mastectomy) to treat breast cancer. The surgery rebuilds the breast so that it is about the same size and shape as it was before it was removed. The nipple and areola (the darker area surrounding the nipple) can also be added. Most women who have had a mastectomy can have reconstruction. Women who have had a lumpectomy usually do not need reconstruction. Breast reconstruction is done by a plastic surgeon.
This information is designed to give you the facts you need to make an informed decision about breast reconstruction. It will help you better understand the process and the words used when talking about breast reconstruction. The words in italics are further explained in the glossary at the end of this information.
The decision to have breast reconstruction is a matter of personal choice. Learn as much as you can about the process before making a decision. No single source of information can provide every fact or give you all the answers. You and those close to you should discuss any questions and concerns about reconstructive surgery with your health care team.
Why do women consider breast reconstruction?
Each woman seeking breast reconstruction has her own individual reason for it. Many find a sense of comfort knowing that breast reconstruction is an available treatment option. Some women appreciate being able to return to a physical appearance similar to that before the breast cancer surgery.
Women describe a sense of emotional healing, restoration of self-confidence/femininity, joy and peace of mind after breast reconstruction. Some women choose breast reconstruction because they feel it allows them to return to as “normal” an appearance and lifestyle as possible. Some women find the mastectomy scar constantly reminds them of the breast cancer. Other women prefer not to wear an external prosthesis (artificial breast) for a variety of reasons.
When can breast reconstruction be performed?
In the past, breast reconstruction was delayed for a period of time to allow women to recover both emotionally and physically after mastectomy surgery. Now breast reconstruction is often done at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction). However, it can be done months or years after mastectomy (delayed reconstruction). Breast reconstruction must never interfere with the treatment of breast cancer
Ideally, women facing mastectomy should learn about their options for breast reconstruction from their general surgeons or medical oncologists before breast cancer surgery. Some doctors believe that it is better to delay reconstruction when chemotherapy and radiation treatment are necessary after the surgery or when a patient is at high risk for wound healing complications (women who are smokers, diabetic, obese or have large breasts). Some women prefer to delay the reconstruction to allow them more time to consider their options.
The decision of when to have breast reconstruction should be made by the woman with advice from the team of medical specialists familiar with her case (family doctor, general surgeon, oncologist and plastic surgeon).
Before surgery
Before a mastectomy, your doctor may recommend that you meet with a plastic surgeon. Consult a plastic surgeon who’s experienced in breast reconstruction following mastectomy. Ideally, your breast surgeon and the plastic surgeon will work together to develop the best surgical treatment and breast reconstruction strategy in your situation.
Your plastic surgeon will describe your surgical options and may show you photos of women who have had different types of breast reconstruction. Your body type, health status and cancer treatment factor into which type of reconstruction will provide the best result. The plastic surgeon provides information on the anesthesia, the location of the operation and what kind of follow-up procedures may be necessary.