Breast Reconstruction

What is breast reconstruction?

Breast Reconstruction is the creation of a new breast after a major surgery like mastectomy (breast removal). It consists of creating a new breast where none exists and this new one has to match the real one.

Are you qualified for breast reconstruction?

If a breast has been removed, for example in the case of cancer, then a Breast Reconstruction is done for aesthetic and cosmetic reasons. After a mastectomy (breast removal) a woman may feel self conscious, nervous, shy or lose her confidence. She wants to look and feel normal, and a Breast Reconstruction can help her achieve this goal. It will also make her less self conscious and more confident.

Procedure

1.  Breast Reconstruction is a major procedure, needing full anesthesia and a hospital stay after the procedure.

2.  There are many different protocols used for this particular surgery. The surgeon will choose the best course of action.

3.  Generally flap techniques are used for Breast Reconstruction.

4.  There are many types of flap techniques and each doctor has his/her own expertise with certain techniques.

5.  Some doctors may suggest using implants, and others may feel that grafts from the patient’s own body is a better treatment. Yet, others may say that expanding the tissue instead of muscle flaps is a better idea.

6.  After administering anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision.

7.  He will introduce a balloon filled with silicone gel or any suitable material and suture the wound and bandage it.

8.   Or the surgeon will do tissue expansion; use this new expanded skin for breast reconstruction. He will introduce a balloon and fill it with saline or silicone gel.

9.  Muscles from the back or abdomen of her own body can be used to reconstruct the breast. The body will not reject it as it is her own.

10.  The final step would be to make the nipples and the areola.

Risks with type of surgery

1.  There may be pain and discomfort.

2.  There may be bleeding or swelling.

3.  There can be blood clots.

4.  There may be problems with the anesthesia.

5.  There can be asymmetry between the normal breast and the reconstructed one if only one breast has been reconstructed.

6.  The new breast will not have the same sensation as the other one.

7.  There may be incision marks but they will fade with time.

Post treatment and Care.

After the operation it is necessary to take great care during recovery. In order to facilitate recovery the doctor’s instructions have to be followed precisely. There will be bandages over the new reconstructed breast, and pain medication will be given to ease the discomfort or pain. A tube may be inserted to drain off any excess fluids.  The tube will be removed at a later stage. The patient may have to wear support garments during recovery. A support bra is advised to reduce swelling, if any, and to support the breast. She should not exert herself or move about too much after the procedure.  It is important to monitor the breast health after breast reconstruction.

Questions to ask your doctor

1.  What are the risks that are involved with the Breast Reconstruction?

2.  What is the procedure like?

3.  Can I see before and after pictures of previous surgeries?

4.  How soon will you be able to resume your normal activities?

5.  Would my health care plan pay or reimburse the expenses?

6.  Where and how will you perform my surgery?

7.  What are the risks associated with this procedure?

8.  Where will I be transferred to after surgery?

9.  Will I be given medication after surgery? What kind? 

10. What is the removal process for dressings, bandages and/or stitches? 

11. When do I return for my follow-up visit?