Breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape, appearance and size following mastectomy.
A new breast can be reconstructed after cancer treatment has been completed.
In an immediate breast reconstruction the breast can be reconstructed during the cancer surgery.
Breast reconstructions are performed using the patient’s own tissue from the abdomen, thigh  or back or  a silicone implant, or a combination of both. The reconstruction method is selected based on the patient’s general health, body shape, personal wishes, profession and hobbies.
Wound-healing complications are common after breast reconstruction, which is a significantly larger operation than mastectomy only.
It is therefore important that the patient is highly motivated and in good general health.
Although breast reconstruction can rebuild your breast, the results are highly variable.
A reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation and feel as the breast it replaces.
Visible incision lines or scars will always be present on the breast, whether from reconstruction or mastectomy.
If only one breast is affected, it alone may be reconstructed. In addition, a breast lift, breast reduction or breast augmentation may be recommended for the opposite breast to improve symmetry of the size and position of both breasts.