Mastectomy or breast cancer surgery can cause dramatic changes to your breasts. Breast reconstruction is an essential procedure for restoring your sense of self. Each breast reconstruction is a unique procedure designed to rejuvenate the confidence you had before your mastectomy.
What is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Breast reconstruction surgery is performed after a mastectomy to restore the breasts. This procedure can be performed in many different ways depending on your needs but usually involves placement of Breast implants (silicone or saline) or borrowing your own tissue from elsewhere on your body to recreate the breast(s). Your Longwood Plastic Surgery team has extensive experience in breast reconstruction. Your LPS surgeon will work with your medical team to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
How Does Breast Reconstruction Work?
Breast reconstruction can be performed in different ways. Only a consultation can determine the best one for you. The procedure can be performed at the same time as your breast cancer surgery or months to years later. The details of your breast reconstruction depend on how your mastectomy is performed. It may include breast implants, but you may have other options. Since each mastectomy is different, each reconstruction will also be unique.
What is Recovery Like After Breast Reconstruction?
Recovery after breast reconstruction depends on several factors. If you have reconstruction at the same time as your mastectomy, you can usually expect to leave the same day or spend a day or two in the hospital while you recover. If you have the procedure later following a mastectomy, you can often go home the same day, although you will need someone to drive you home.
Some types of reconstruction will have a longer recovery time than others. Your LPS surgeon will discuss what you can expect. Most people can return to their normal activities within four to six weeks. Some people may need less time if they have a minor procedure. Discuss any concerns during your recovery with your LPS surgeon.
What is Breast Reconstruction Revision?
You may not feel satisfied with the results you see after your breast reconstruction. You can have breast reconstruction revision as little as three months later. This procedure can be minor, such as correcting the nipple position, or involve significant steps, such as placing breast implants. Breast reconstruction revision can also be performed if you did not have reconstruction at the time of your mastectomy.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Most individuals who have a mastectomy are good candidates for breast reconstruction. Whether it takes place at the time of the mastectomy or later depends on many factors. Good candidates have been cleared by all their doctors and have reasonable expectations. You may not be a good candidate if you have certain medical conditions.
Thank you for all you have done to help me through my recent surgery. Your expertise in the reconstruction of my breasts was only surpassed by your extreme patients in dealing with United Airlines in my insurance company. I truly appreciated your confidence and the positive outcome of the surgery and mostly I think you for your kindness and caring manner at each of my appointments. Blessed to have you as my doctor!
Take the Next Step
Interested in learning about breast reconstruction? Schedule your consultation with Longwood Plastic Surgery today by calling our Brookline office at (617) 383-6250. We serve the Brookline and Greater Boston area with distinction.