Breast Reconstruction
Overview | FAQ | Photo Gallery
- What is breast reconstruction surgery?
- Will an implant affect the results of mammograms?
- Can breast reconstruction be performed immediately after breast removal?
- Should I choose tissue flap or implant reconstruction?
- Can breast reconstruction cause the cancer to return?
- Can a patient undergo radiation treatment or chemotherapy after breast reconstruction?
- Is breast reconstruction surgery covered by medical insurance companies?
- What can be done if I am not satisfied with the results?
What is breast reconstruction surgery?
Breast reconstruction surgery involves the creation of a new breast to replace one that has been surgically removed, usually due to breast cancer treatment. A plastic surgeon will rebuild the breast so that it is similar in size, shape and feel to the original breast.
Will an implant affect the results of mammograms?
Breast implantation should not interfere with the results of mammograms. However, it is suggested that patients go to an imaging center with technicians that are experienced in obtaining accurate mammogram results from patients who have breast implants.
Can breast reconstruction be performed immediately after breast removal?
Yes, many women prepare for breast reconstruction surgery at the same time as breast removal. This has the advantage of avoiding the emotional trauma of viewing an absent breast and could also eliminate the need for a staged tissue expansion and breast implant reconstruction.
Should I choose tissue flap or implant reconstruction?
Since implant reconstruction is a less extensive procedure, it is usually recommended for older patients or very thin women who may not have sufficient tissue over their stomachs or back for tissue flap reconstruction. Expander/implant reconstruction requires shorter operative times and subsequently shorter recovery period compared to tissue flap reconstruction because the former is less invasive. Furthermore, expander/implant reconstruction allows plastic surgeons to achieve greater breast symmetry for patients who develop bilateral breast cancer surgery and/or for those who require bilateral breast reconstruction.
Tissue flap reconstruction is a complex surgery requiring prolonged operative times; therefore, this surgery is not suitable for patients with multiple medical problems. Tissue flap reconstruction is more suitable for women undergoing unilateral breast reconstruction because it uses a women’s own tissue to reconstruct a breast that better matches a naturally sagging opposite breast. Additionally, tissue flap reconstruction does not have the risks associated with breast reconstruction such as capsular contracture. Ultimately, you should discuss your treatment options with a board certified plastic surgeon before your decision.
Can breast reconstruction cause the cancer to return?
To date, no studies have indicated that breast reconstruction causes the return of breast cancer. Additionally, breast reconstruction has not been associated in delays of detecting breast cancer recurrence.
Can a patient undergo radiation treatment or chemotherapy after breast reconstruction?
Usually patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction can undergo radiation treatment and chemotherapy. Patients who are expected to undergo postoperative radiation therapy are encouraged to undergo delayed breast reconstruction in order to avoid the effects of radiation on the attempted reconstruction. Patients are not encouraged to delay breast reconstruction for patients needing reconstructive surgery. Patients should verify the compatibility of reconstructive surgery and cancer treatment options with their oncologist and plastic surgeon in order to coordinate an effective treatment plan.
Is breast reconstruction surgery covered by medical insurance companies?
Breast reconstruction is always covered by medical insurance companies. In fact, follow-up surgeries, including revision surgeries, symmetry procedures of the opposite breast, and nipple areola reconstruction are all covered by insurance companies.
What can be done if I am not satisfied with the results?
Follow-up procedures can be performed to balance the size and shape of the reconstructed and opposite natural breast. Revision of the reconstructed breast often requires a combination of liposuction and fat grafting employed to correct residual contour deformities. Symmetry procedures of the opposite natural breast may also require revisions to optimize contour symmetry and nipple areola malposition. Although follow-up procedures are performed, patients should also have realistic expectations about the outcome of their reconstructive surgery.
