Breast Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Breast reconstruction (surgery to rebuild the shape of a breast) is often an option after mastectomy. Women considering reconstruction should discuss this with a plastic surgeon before having a mastectomy.

Reconstruction can be done either at the time of the mastectomy or at a later date. In either case, multiple procedures may be necessary in the months that follow for placement of a nipple/areolar complex, reduction of the other side to match the reconstructed one, etc.

Reconstruction may involve saline implant, expandable saline implant, moving a flap of tissue (muscle, fat, skin) from the abdomen (TRAM flap), or from the back (latissimus dorsi flap), and fairly often, both a flap and an implant.

To determine which choice you prefer, you should do two things:

1. Schedule an appointment with one or more plastic surgeons to discuss your options

2. Talk to women who have had the different procedures you are considering. You will want to know what it feels like to live with the results of the surgery.

Reconstruction can be done either at time of mastectomy or at a later date. In either case, multiple procedures may be necessary in the months that follow for placement of a nipple/areolar complex, reduction of the other side to match the reconstructed one, etc.

Summary

The diagnosis if breast cancer no longer means a life of disfigurement. When a plastic surgeon is intimately involved in the treatment process, excellent results can be attained. Modern treatment includes immediate reconstruction. This is a multi-staged process using autologous tissue or up-to-date implants. It is finished with nipple reconstruction and tattooing for a complete look and feel.

Additional Treatment Choices

You may want to talk with your doctor about taking part in a clinical trial (research study of new treatment methods). Clinical trials are an important option for women with all stages of breast cancer.