Breast reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction, TX

What is Breast reconstruction surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery is a specialized procedure aimed at rebuilding the shape and appearance of the breast following mastectomy, lumpectomy, or other trauma to the breast tissue. This surgery is often sought by women who have undergone breast cancer treatment and want to restore the natural look of their breasts. The reconstruction can involve the use of breast implants, autologous tissue (using tissue from other parts of the body), or a combination of both methods. By recreating the breast mound, breast reconstruction helps women regain a sense of wholeness, confidence, and femininity after the significant physical and emotional impact of losing a breast.

The cosmetic surgery’s reconstructive process typically occurs in multiple stages, depending on the type of procedure chosen and the individual’s health condition. The first stage generally focuses on creating the breast mound, which can be done immediately following a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or delayed until after the patient has completed their cancer treatment (delayed reconstruction). In cases of delayed reconstruction, the surgeon may use a tissue expander to gradually stretch the skin and chest muscles before placing the permanent implant or flap. The second stage involves refining the shape of the reconstructed breast and may include procedures like nipple reconstruction and adjusting the size or shape to achieve a symmetrical and natural appearance.

Each woman’s journey with breast reconstruction is unique, and the decision to undergo this procedure is deeply personal. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction is essential for understanding the available options, the potential benefits and risks, and determining the best approach based on your goals and medical history.

Who is an ideal candidate for Breast reconstruction surgery?

Ideal candidates for breast reconstruction surgery are typically women who have undergone lumpectomy or mastectomy. They may require such procedures due to breast cancer or other medical conditions affecting the breast. To be considered for the procedure, candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. Additionally, patients should have no contraindications to surgery, such as uncontrolled diabetes or bleeding disorders, which could affect the healing process.

Breast reconstruction can also be performed on women who have experienced traumatic injuries to the breast or congenital deformities that result in the underdevelopment or absence of one or both breasts. The type and timing of breast reconstruction will depend on various factors, including the stage of cancer treatment, the availability of sufficient skin and tissue in the breast area, and whether radiation therapy is part of the treatment plan.

Women who are considering breast reconstruction surgery should engage in an open and honest discussion with their surgical team about their goals, concerns, and preferences. Understanding the different types of reconstruction techniques and their implications will help in making an informed decision that aligns with personal desires and medical considerations.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

There are several methods of breast reconstruction surgery, and the choice of procedure will depend on factors such as the patient’s body type, health condition, and desired outcome. The two primary types of breast reconstruction are implant-based reconstruction and autologous (flap) reconstruction:

Implant-Based Reconstruction: This method involves placing a breast implant—either saline or silicone—underneath the skin and muscle of the chest to recreate the shape of the breast. Implant-based reconstruction is generally less invasive and has a shorter recovery period compared to flap reconstruction. It can be performed immediately after mastectomy or as a delayed procedure. The main advantage of implant-based reconstruction is that it does not require surgery in other parts of the body. However, implants may need to be replaced or revised over time, and some women may not achieve the same natural look and feel as with flap reconstruction.
Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction: This technique uses the patient’s own tissue, taken from another area of the body such as the abdomen, back, or thighs, to reconstruct the breast. Common flap procedures include the DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap, TRAM (transverse rectus abdominis muscle) flap, and latissimus dorsi flap. Flap reconstruction tends to provide a more natural look and feel compared to implants, and it avoids some of the complications associated with implant-based reconstruction. However, it is a more complex surgery with a longer recovery time and involves scars at both the donor and reconstruction sites.
Combination of Implant and Flap Reconstruction: In some cases, a combination of implants and flap techniques may be used to achieve the desired shape and size. This approach is often chosen when there is insufficient tissue available for a complete flap reconstruction, or when additional volume and projection are needed to match the opposite breast.

What are the Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery offers a range of benefits that go beyond the physical restoration of the breast shape. For many women, the procedure provides significant psychological and emotional advantages, helping them regain confidence and a sense of normalcy. Reconstructive surgery can also play a crucial role in improving overall body image and quality of life.

One of the primary benefits of breast reconstruction is achieving a symmetrical and natural appearance of the chest. By recreating the breast mound, the procedure allows women to feel more comfortable in their clothing and regain their sense of femininity. Breast reconstruction can also alleviate some of the emotional distress associated with losing a breast to cancer or trauma, providing a renewed sense of self-esteem and wholeness.

For women who have undergone unilateral mastectomy (removal of one breast), breast reconstruction helps achieve balance and proportion between the two breasts, enhancing comfort and appearance. It can also eliminate the need for an external breast prosthesis, which some women find cumbersome or inconvenient.

Additionally, breast reconstruction can help improve posture and relieve back or shoulder pain in women who have had significant chest wall deformities following mastectomy. Restoring the breast contour may correct any muscular imbalances and promote better physical alignment.

Are there any risks associated with Breast reconstruction surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, breast reconstruction carries potential risks and complications. While most women experience a successful outcome, it’s important to be aware of these risks and discuss them thoroughly with your surgeon. Possible complications include:

Infection and Bleeding: Any surgery poses a risk of infection or excessive bleeding, which may require additional medical intervention.
Poor Wound Healing: Some patients, especially those who have undergone radiation therapy or who smoke, may experience delayed wound healing, which can affect the overall results.
Scarring: Scarring is an inevitable part of breast reconstruction surgery. The extent and visibility of scars will depend on the type of reconstruction performed and individual healing factors.
Implant-Related Issues: For those opting for implant-based reconstruction, complications such as implant rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue around the implant) can occur.
Changes in Sensation: It is common for patients to experience numbness or changes in sensation in the reconstructed breast or surrounding areas. While some sensation may return over time, it may not fully recover.
Asymmetry: Achieving perfect symmetry between the reconstructed breast and the natural breast can be challenging. Additional procedures may be required to refine the shape and size.

Recovery and aftercare following Breast reconstruction surgery

Recovery after breast reconstruction surgery varies depending on the type of reconstruction performed, the patient’s overall health, and the extent of surgery. In general, most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for a few days following the procedure, especially if a flap reconstruction was performed.

During the initial recovery period, it is common to experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions, including how to care for surgical drains, incision sites, and when to return for follow-up appointments. Wearing a supportive bra or compression garment as directed will help reduce swelling and support the healing tissues.

Patients should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense physical exercise for at least 4 to 6 weeks to allow the body to heal properly. Full recovery can take several months, and it’s important to attend all scheduled follow-up visits to ensure that healing is progressing as expected.

What is the cost of Breast reconstruction surgery?

The cost of breast reconstruction surgery can vary significantly depending on the type of reconstruction performed, geographic location, and surgeon’s experience. Factors such as hospital fees, anesthesia, post-operative care, and the need for additional procedures (e.g., nipple reconstruction or revisions) will also impact the total cost.

Most health insurance plans, however, cover breast reconstruction surgery as it is considered a restorative procedure rather than a purely cosmetic one. The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) requires health insurance providers to cover the cost of breast reconstruction for women who have undergone mastectomy. It is essential to consult with your insurance provider to understand what is covered and any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.

Making the decision to undergo Breast reconstruction

Deciding to undergo breast reconstruction is a personal and complex choice. For many women, it is an empowering step towards reclaiming their body and identity after breast cancer or trauma. It’s important to gather all the necessary information, consult with experienced medical professionals, and consider both the physical and emotional aspects of the procedure before making your decision. Breast reconstruction can be a transformative experience, providing a renewed sense of confidence and helping women feel whole again.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Consult your doctor for specific questions about your individual health, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery timeline.

Our Gallery

Contact Us

GET IN TOUCH WITH US

Breast reconstruction