Breast Reconstruction
Deciding on breast reconstruction is a highly personal decision and it can also be a physical and emotionally rewarding experience for women who have lost a breast due to cancer or who have a congenital breast abnormality.
Breast Reconstruction Patient Testimonial
Options for Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction can be a single procedure or multiple procedures that reconstructs a breast mound. Breast reconstruction is highly individualized. The various techniques are dependent on the patient’s anatomy and desired outcome. The plastic surgeon will take these factors inconsideration before recommending a reconstruction technique.
- Breast reconstruction utilizing the flap technique.
- This technique utilizes the patient’s own tissues to create a new breast.
- It is used when there is little tissue remaining after the mastectomy.
- Tissue is usually taken from the abdomen, but tissue can also be taken from the patient’s back.
- Breast reconstruction with tissue expansion and implants.
- The first part of this technique is to insert tissue expander, a balloon-like device under the remaining breast tissue during the mastectomy.
- Over several weeks the balloon is filled with saline through a tiny valve under the skin. This will allow the skin to slowly stretch, much like the abdomen stretches during pregnancy. The tissue expander will create a breast-shaped pocket for an implant.
- The tissue expander is removed and replaced with an implant during a surgical procedure.
What type of Candidates are Considered for Breast Reconstruction?
Women with no other underlying health conditions.
Women who are non-smokers.
Women who have been able to cope well with their diagnosis and treatment.
What to Expect During Recovery
There will be four to six weeks of downtime.
There will be soreness and bruising. This will resolve with time.
There will be swelling and sensitivity, which get better over time.
Questions to Ask Our Aspirus Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. Although the risks are unlikely, they could include:
Am I a good candidate for breast reconstruction?
Will reconstruction interfere with chemotherapy?
Will reconstruction interfere with radiation treatments?
What type of breast reconstruction makes sense for me?
What are the risks and benefits of each reconstruction option?
What will the recovery process be like?
How long will the reconstruction last?
Will I need to stay in the hospital?
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