Breast Reconstruction
Surgery to restore the breasts after mastectomy is known as breast reconstruction. This process comes in several forms. Implants are used in some methods. Others create breasts using tissues from your body, such as the belly. Breast reconstruction following mastectomy can be done immediately or years later. More than one surgery may be necessary over the course of a month.
Types Of Breast Reconstruction
The three basic methods of creating a new breast are: implants to replace all or part of your breast tissue; autologous or “flap” reconstruction; and using your own tissue plus an implant.
You will discuss the various methods of reconstruction with your physician. Some of them might not be appropriate for you. They want to be as similar like your other breast as feasible.
They can show you images of various breast reconstruction techniques. Both immediately following surgery and some months later, the repair is visible.
Following reconstruction surgery, you might think about having further procedures done to:
- Develop a new nipple (a nipple reconstruction);
- Alter the contour of your second breast to match.
Recovery After Breast Reconstruction Surgery
For several weeks following surgery, you can feel worn out and painful. In order to assist you manage your pain, your doctor will prescribe medicine.
Returning to regular activities could take six weeks or more. Take it easy while this is happening.
Your doctor will inform you of any limitations on your activities, such as the need to refrain from overhead lifting or physically demanding tasks. Don’t be alarmed if it seems to take a while to recover from surgery; it could take a year or more to feel fully recovered.
After the reconstruction is finished, you’ll typically visit your plastic surgeon once a year to have your restored breast checked. However, if you have any worries regarding your reconstruction, schedule a consultation beforehand.
Please get in touch with us by phone, email, or by completing the Request for Information form to learn more about it.
