Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy (surgical removal of the breast) is a very personal and completely individual choice. And with the advances in breast reconstruction surgery, many women undergoing breast removal choose to have their breast(s) rebuilt.
Even though medical, surgical, and radiation therapy treatments for breast cancer have increased the number of breast-sparing procedures available, some breast cancer patients may still require a mastectomy (removal of the breast or breasts). In addition, other women have their breast(s) removed due to other diseases.
Breast reconstruction surgery involves creating a breast mound that comes as close as possible to the form and appearance of the natural breast.
The goal of reconstructive surgery is to create a breast mound that matches the opposite breast and to achieve symmetry. If both breasts have been removed, the goal of breast reconstructive surgery is to create both breast mounds approximately the size of the patient's natural breasts.
so if you are considering breast reconstruction, your choice will depend on your cancer management plan, lifestyle, body build, personal circumstance, the skills of the surgeon and whether or not you will accept more scars or the use of implants. Your surgeon will be able to discuss all the available options and discuss the benefits and risks of each method relevant to you.
When an inflatable implant (expander) is used, the newly reconstructed breast often looks flattened immediately after reconstruction. This is because the implant is positioned behind tissues that are relatively tight. These tissues stretch and soften over the next few months after the implant is inflated to provide better projection and shape.
Inflation of the implant normally starts in the first 2 weeks after the operation. This involves the injection of saline (salt water) into a port, which is just underneath the skin and attached to the implant. There will be a sensation of pressure during this procedure, which normally settles down after several hours.
Inflation is usually carried out in the outpatient clinic at weekly or fortnightly intervals.
In a few weeks the scar will become red but will fade with time (usually over a few months).
The recovery period varies but most patients are out of bed the same or next day, may take a shower the next day and may drive a car after 1-2 weeks. It is best to wait 4-6 weeks before gradually resuming exercise and sporting activities.
If an inflatable implant is used, a second operation may be required to remove the injection port or to move it to a hidden position. In certain cases, this operation may be performed under a local anaesthetic
Loading...