Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that is done by a plastic surgeon after a woman needs to have a portion of the breast repaired after having a lumpectomy. Sometimes, the entire breast must be removed as a result of cancer. Women who experience one of these scenarios can elect to have the breast tissue rebuilt. Breast reconstruction surgery can be performed by transplanting tissue from another area of the body to the chest area or with the use of breast implants made of silicone or saline. At times, a combination of these two techniques is used. The end result is natural looking breasts that restore dignity and self-esteem.
Breast implant reconstruction is performed by surgically placing either a saline or silicone implant where the breast had formerly been located. The implant can be placed over the muscle or underneath it. A variety of shapes and sizes of implants can be chosen to customize the desired look. If only one breast needs reconstruction, modification to the other breast may be necessary to assure symmetry. The skin is placed over the implant once it is in place.
Autologous reconstruction, or flap reconstruction, is done by taking tissue from another part of the body and creating a breast with it. Flap reconstruction is successful because the patient’s own flesh is used, and this typically results in a life-long positive experience. Autologous reconstruction may be done at the same time as the mastectomy, or it might be performed at a later time.
Because breast reconstruction surgery is so individualized, the overall cost of reconstructive surgery depends on whether one or both breasts are being rebuilt, whether or not implants are being incorporated into the surgery, any tests that might need to be completed, where in the country the surgery is being done, special clothing that will need to be worn after the revision, whether or not insurance covers a portion of the costs, and any additional hospital fees.
Most patients who have breast reconstruction surgery will be able to go home after a few days Pain and swelling will linger for several weeks. It is possible that drains may be placed in the skin to prevent accumulation of blood and fluid while healing takes place. The drains will be attached to a bulb that can be emptied by the patient. Once sufficient healing has occurred, the drains will be removed. Most patients can resume normal activities within eight weeks. While normal sensation will not return to the breasts, some feeling may come back after a year or two. An emotional aspect will be experienced with recovery while the individual adjusts to the new circumstances.
Most patients who have breast reconstruction surgery will be able to go home after a few days Pain and swelling will linger for several weeks. It is possible that drains may be placed in the skin to prevent accumulation of blood and fluid while healing takes place. The drains will be attached to a bulb that can be emptied by the patient. Once sufficient healing has occurred, the drains will be removed. Most patients can resume normal activities within eight weeks. While normal sensation will not return to the breasts, some feeling may come back after a year or two. An emotional aspect will be experienced with recovery while the individual adjusts to the new circumstances.
Undesirable scarring resulting in hardening or misshapen breasts
Fat necrosis
Temporary or permanent change in sensation
Scarring
Bleeding
Infection
Rupture of implants
Asymmetry of breasts or nipples
Breast reconstruction surgery restores a natural look after lumpectomy or mastectomy. The procedure can reinvigorate the patient because the individual will appear and feel more like their normal selves. It can elevate self-esteem and confidence and improve social experiences. Breast reconstruction surgery can result in a more positive outlook on life. Many women feel more fulfilled after breast reconstruction surgery.
Breast reconstruction surgery restores a natural look after lumpectomy or mastectomy. The procedure can reinvigorate the patient because the individual will appear and feel more like their normal selves. It can elevate self-esteem and confidence and improve social experiences. Breast reconstruction surgery can result in a more positive outlook on life. Many women feel more fulfilled after breast reconstruction surgery.
Breast Prosthesis
A breast prosthesis, or form, is an artificial breast. A prosthetic may be made of silicone or some other material and can be attached to the chest using magnets placed under the skin or with adhesive tabs that can be attached to the skin. These specially weighted forms allow for a more natural appearance. Prostheses simulate the look, feel, and movement of actual breasts and give a more organic look. A breast form can also be an insert that can be placed inside a bra as desired. Breast forms can be custom made or bought from various manufacturers.
Mastectomy Bras
Mastectomy bras are specially designed undergarments that help to hold off-the-shelf breast forms. Since commercial prosthetics cannot be attached to the skin, they may get misplaced without a mastectomy bra. The bras have pockets in them for the prosthetics to be placed. Some of these bras even come with the molds embedded into them.
Going Flat
Some individuals have come to terms with their situation and are comfortable in their own skin. An option in this case is to choose not to have reconstructive surgery or use a prosthetic. The possibility of future reconstructive surgery is open should a person change her mind at some point.
The first step in the breast reconstruction surgery process is finding a doctor that is experienced in performing breast reconstruction procedures. In order to find the best cosmetic doctor for breast reconstruction surgery, patients should use our “Find a Doctor” search page to locate a doctor based on their geographic location.
_.jpg)
