For women who undergo surgery as part of their breast cancer treatment, some may choose to have reconstructive surgery in order to rebuild and reshape the breast. If you’re considering this option, it’s best to talk to your surgeon BEFORE you have your surgery to remove the tumor or breast. This allows your medical team to come up with the best plan of action, even if you don’t plan on undergoing reconstructive surgery right away.

Some of the benefits of breast reconstruction include:

• Creating a balanced chest when wearing a bra or swimsuit
• Regaining breast shape
• Increased confidence and self-esteem

Although there are substantial benefits to having breast reconstruction, here are some important things to consider:

• Realize that a reconstructed breast is not a perfect substitute for your natural breast. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome.
• If tissue is taken from another part of your body for this procedure, those areas of your body will look different afterwards. Your surgeon can talk to you about scarring and potential changes in shape.
• You might have the option to do the reconstructive procedure at the same time as the mastectomy, or it might be better to wait until a later time. Talk to your surgeon about the best approach.
• Cancer surgery and reconstructive surgery will leave scarring on your breast and areas where tissue was removed. Your surgeon can give you an idea of what to expect.
• Breast skin or flaps might not survive after the surgery. In this case, healing is delayed and additional surgeries might be necessary.
• Previous surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy might impact the healing process.
• If radiation is part of your cancer treatment plan, make sure to discuss your options with your surgeon. In cases where radiation is necessary, delaying the reconstructive surgery is the best option as radiation may change the appearance and feel of the rebuilt breast.

If you’re considering breast reconstruction, click here for a great list of questions that you should ask your surgeon.

View before and after photos (call the office to get the password).

Contact us today to discuss your options and schedule a free consultation.