Breast Reconstruction
Nearly all women who are faced with losing one or both breasts to breast cancer can have breast reconstruction to restore their body after mastectomy. Breast reconstruction can considerably enrich a womanÕs appearance, self-confidence and improve her quality of life. Every woman is unique in her own special way so it is best to consult a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.
What to expect from the consultation: During this visit it is important that you have someone with you. A spouse, close friend or family member. You will sit at length with your surgeon and discuss physical health, emotional health and goals for the procedure. The surgeon will examine you to determine the best method of reconstruction for you. It is important to be informative about:
- Past surgeries
- Past and current medical conditions
- Any medications and vitamins you are currently taking
- Any and all supplement you are using
- Allergies to drugs, foods, dyes and rubber
- Past experience with weight loss and the effect it had on your breast size
How the surgery is performed: There are two types of reconstruction available. Skin expansion and Flap reconstruction. Skin expansion is with the use of a temporary expander to create a pocket or stretching the skin following mastectomy. After about eight to twelve weeks we plan for the placement of a permanent implant. The nipple and areola are done about six to eight weeks after this then finally three to six weeks later is tattooing. Tattooing is primarily for aesthetic completion. Flap reconstruction is more involved than the implant technique but with the flap your own tissue is used resulting in quicker completion of breast reconstruction but with longer healing time initially. Both techniques are dependent on the physical condition of the patient, social and medical history.
What to expect after the surgery: During the first week you will experience symptoms including discomfort, tenderness, fatigue bruising and swelling. You may have to spend one to three nights in the hospital. You are going to need some help around the house with routine tasks. After the second week you will be getting up and around much better and this will continue with each additional week.
It is required by law that insurance companies cover the medical costs of breast reconstruction. You are responsible for any co-pays, deductibles or coinsurance, which you pay routinely with doctor visits and surgical procedures. However some insurance companies will pay only for reconstruction on the affected breast and not the unaffected and sometimes surgery is necessary to gain symmetry of both breasts.
