Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy
Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women, and over 250,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Despite these numbers, less than half of women who undergo mastectomy are offered breast reconstruction and less than 20% elect for immediate reconstruction. Memorial Plastic Surgery is proud to be at the vanguard and leader in offering restoration of the breasts for patients facing breast cancer.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
- Implant-based Restoration
This method of reconstruction is dependent on the use of saline or silicone implants to restore form. It is typically performed in stages, first with a temporary implant called a tissue expander, to optimize breast shape and size. The implant is exchanged at a later time, but in certain situations, may be performed in one stage.
- Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction
Some patients prefer to use their own tissue to replace the breasts. For these patients with adequate tissue of the lower abdomen who have not had significant prior abdominal surgery, autologous tissue reconstruction may be an option. The breast is formed from the tissue of the lower abdomen (or less frequently from the buttock or thigh) by dissecting the blood supply from the overlying muscle and re-connecting the vessel to one in the chest.
- Synergistic or Combined Approach
In specific situations, a blend of flap and implant techniques is required to optimize outcomes. At Memorial Plastic Surgery, this tailored approach can yield superior results.
- Fat Grafting
This technique utilizes the transfer of fat from one body area via liposuction to the breast, in order to provide a naturally augmented profile. It is usually an adjunct in the breast reconstruction armamentarium.
- Oncoplastic Techniques
Breast reconstruction can also be offered to those patients who are considering lumpectomy, or partial mastectomy. For patients who suffer from macromastia, a breast reduction can be offered at the same time as excision of the breast mass and offer relief from long-standing symptoms such as back, neck and shoulder pain.
- Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
In instances when the nipple and areola are removed as part of the cancer excision, there are ways to replace these structures once the breast mound has been re-formed. Nipple and areolar reconstruction represent the final stages in the reconstructive process.
Merits of Breast Reconstruction
- Physical Rehabilitation: The purpose of breast reconstruction is to replace or improve breast form in order to provide a sense of normalcy for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.
- Elevated Body Image: Multiple studies have shown that reconstruction after mastectomy boosts self-confidence and provides a positive sense of self.
- Augmented Self-esteem:The restoration of breasts can positively sway self-esteem and self-value, endowing individuals with enhanced confidence in their appearance.
- Enhanced Symmetry: Breast reconstruction engenders superior symmetry between the breasts, crafting a well-proportioned and harmonious overall appearance.
- Reduced Anxiety: For many patients facing surgery for breast cancer, offering breast reconstruction can assuage the fears and anxiety they may have. This may, in turn, confer a sense of command over their destiny.
- Personal Empowerment: The fact that less than 50% of women are offered breast reconstruction is abysmal. One of the many things patients fear most is loss of autonomy, but reconstruction is one way that will allow them to actively partake in their care.
Expertise of Memorial Plastic Surgery
Memorial Plastic Surgery offers the full range of breast reconstruction, and as leaders in the field, patients should feel confident in their results!
Book Your Consultation Today!
Have confidence with the expertise in breast reconstruction at Memorial Plastic Surgery. Our skilled surgeons offer personalized care for a transformative journey. Schedule a consultation today to find out more about your options and embark on the path to renewal.
*This blog is created and maintained for informational purposes only. The images present may not accurately reflect actual cases per individual. Individual cases are unique, and the descriptions and solutions will vary per patient.
