What is Breast Reconstruction?

Rebuilding the shape of the removed breast is an option for many women who undergo mastectomy surgery, which removes the entire breast to treat or prevent breast cancer. When it comes to reconstructing their breasts, women have various options. Silicone or saline implants are used to reconstruct breasts. Moreover, autologous tissue—tissue from outside the body—can be used to rebuild them. Autologous tissue and implants are sometimes used in conjunction to rebuild the breast.

Reconstruction surgery can be performed (or initiated) at the time of mastectomy (also known as immediate reconstruction) or after breast cancer therapy is finished and the incisions from the mastectomy have healed (also known as delayed reconstruction). After a mastectomy, delayed reconstruction may occur months or even years later.

If the areola and nipple were not preserved during the mastectomy, they might be recreated on the reconstructed breast in the final stage of breast reconstruction. Occasionally, breast reconstruction surgery also involves surgery on the contralateral breast to achieve symmetry in the size and shape of the two breasts.

Why You May Consider Breast Reconstruction

After overcoming breast cancer, a woman may face a difficult situation following a mastectomy. Losing a breast due to cancer can cause her to feel damaged or broken. If you have experienced damage or losing one or both of your breasts because of breast cancer or a severe injury, breast reconstruction may be an option worth considering.

Post-Mastectomy Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction surgeries after mastectomy require general anesthesia. They can be done immediately or months or years later after a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or other breast trauma. 

The approach taken during surgery depends on various factors, including the use of natural tissues from other body parts, implants, or a combination of both. Natural tissue reconstruction involves the use of skin, fat, and muscle from the back and/or abdomen or fat transfers via liposuction from the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. 

The incision patterns in the breast area differ depending on the size of the implants and the scope of reconstruction, and the surgery may involve a tissue expander. Some breast reconstructions may require multiple stages, with the nipple and areola rebuilding scheduled for a later date.

Recovering from Post-Mastectomy Reconstruction  

The duration of recovery after post-mastectomy breast reconstruction primarily depends on the extent of the mastectomy and reconstruction, as well as the patient’s overall health. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, and patients may be discharged a few hours after the procedure. However, some patients may need to stay overnight in our private and comfortable surgical suite for further monitoring and care.

Following the procedure, patients can expect bruising, swelling, and soreness in the treated areas. Nevertheless, this can be remedied with prescribed pain and anti-inflammatory medications. Your surgeon may recommend other post-operative care measures as necessary. Most patients can resume work and their regular activities within a week, although some may require an additional week or two to recover fully.