Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to restore the appearance of a breast for women who have had a mastectomy to treat breast cancer. The surgery rebuilds the breast contour. Most women who have had a mastectomy can have reconstruction.

Women who have had lumpectomy usually do not need reconstruction. However, they may find after surgery and radiation there is a big difference between the sizes of their breasts. If that’s the case many women opt for reducing the unaffected breast to bring back balance. Breast reconstruction should be done by a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in breast reconstruction.

If you and your doctor decide on a mastectomy that is covered by your health insurance, your insurance is required to cover full reconstructive surgery as well.  Ask to have the plastic surgeon in the operating room with your breast surgeon. By creating a “team” you will have the best possible headstart in preparing for reconstruction.  Discuss this with your doctors further. Plastic surgeons can rebuild real looking breasts with implants or with tissue from your own body (like fat and muscle). They can even rebuild the nipple. There are many options .  Before making your final decision, allow yourself to talk to others about their results. Many plastic surgeons will help connect you with a former patient or provide before and after photos.

Having reconstructive surgery may help your body image and self-esteem after going through breast cancer. Discuss the potential results with your surgeon before the surgery so your expectations are realistic. The reconstruction process may require several operations. Discuss the benefits and risks of reconstruction with your doctors and give yourself plenty of time to make the best decision for you. It is common to get a second opinion before having any surgery; breast reconstruction and even mastectomy are no different. It’s important to make the right decisions for you, so don’t feel rushed. Ask the all the questions you need to be comfortable with your decision.

Many women choose not to have reconstruction. It’s a very personal choice and for some women that’s no big deal. The important thing is that you do what feels right for you. You can have reconstructed breasts that are perky or you can have real looking prosthesis in your bra that you take off at the end of the day. Some women choose to do nothing.  One good thing about the laws around reconstruction –  even if you don’t choose reconstruction at the time of your mastectomy, it is possible to do it later.