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Breast Reconstruction

Having a mastectomy (removal of the breast) for breast cancer can be a traumatic experience for women particularly if she is not aware of the options available for reconstruction. Breast reconstruction can restore the appearance of the breasts, alleviate anxiety, improve body image and self-esteem, and simplify practical matters such as clothing selection and dressing.

Reconstruction of the breast after mastectomy (removal of the breast) due to cancer or other disease is quite possible with today’s surgical procedures. The plastic surgeon is able to create a breast that is similar in form and appearance to that of the native breast.

Most women are referred to a plastic surgeon by their general surgeon or surgical oncologist (doctors who specialize in breast cancer removal) after they have a diagnosis of breast cancer, but before their mastectomy. The breast reconstruction will likely be performed at the same operation as the mastectomy (removal of the breast). The patient may have many options for reconstruction including the use of implants, use of her own body tissue such as the excess skin and fat of the belly or back, or a combination of the two. Your plastic and reconstructive surgeon will discuss the options available to you and help guide you in determining the right choice.

Occasionally, women who have previously undergone a mastectomy, become interested in breast reconstruction. Using similar techniques as mentioned above, it is possible to reconstruct the breast after having gone some time without a breast.

Breast reconstruction is performed under general anesthesia and may require a one to five day hospital stay, depending on the procedure performed. Recovery ranges from two to six weeks.

In addition to recreating the breast mound, your plastic surgeon can recreate the nipple and areola (the pigmented area around the nipple) through a variety of techniques, usually preformed in the office under local anesthesia. These less invasive procedures are performed six to nine months after the breast mound reconstruction. Your plastic surgeon will discuss these options with you at the time of consultation.

Learn more about breast reconstruction from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons at www.plasticsurgery.org, or visit www.BreastReconstructionMatters.com.

Please contact our plastic and reconstructive surgery practice for more information.