breast reconstruction

Introduction

Reconstruction of the breast after a mastectomy operation is considered desirable by many women and most surgeons performing mastectomies. If possible, the best time to see the Plastic Surgeon is before the mastectomy. In some cases, the reconstruction may be performed at the same operation, although this is only advisable when it is judged that the reconstruction will not interfere with any subsequent treatment of the breast cancer, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

There are three basic ways to reconstruct a breast: using the patient's own tissue taken from another part of the body (flap reconstruction), using a breast implant (Implant reconstruction) or a combination of a flap and an implant.

There are advantages and disadvantages to each method, and these will be discussed with you during your consultation with Mr. Bloom.

Unfortunately not all patients have the choice. For example, radiotherapy to the chest wall will often preclude an implant reconstruction. Breast implants in an area that has had radiotherapy often become very tight, hard and painful and are usually better avoided. Previous surgery to the abdomen may preclude the use of a flap.

The surgery

Either form or reconstruction can be carried out either at the time of the mastectomy or at a second stage depending on the desires of the patient and the breast surgeon.

After your Surgery

Breast reconstruction is performed in a hospital under general anaesthesia.

Recovery and hospital stay depends on the type of reconstruction being undertaken. In general, an implant reconstruction patient will stay in hospital overnight, whilst a flap reconstruction patient may be in hospital up to a week.

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