Breast Reconstruction

08 Jul

Posted by Admin as Female health

If you want to have breast reconstruction it is best to discuss this with your doctor as soon as you realise you need a mastectomy, although, breast reconstruction can be done months to years after a mastectomy or immediately after mastectomy as part of the same operation.

There are two main types, one in which muscle and/or skin are taken from another part of your body (the back, stomach or other breast) and one using implants. The surgeon will often recommend which is best for you based on your breast size and personal preferences. You may also be given a choice where either may suit.

It is useful to do the research on this and look at photos and videos, both in relation to the type of operation and to your choice of surgeon.

What is breast reconstruction surgery?

With 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.

TRAM FLAP:

This uses excess fat in the lower abdomen to reconstruct the breast. The fat is collected with an incision like a tummy tuck. The excess skin and fat will need a new source of blood supply once moved. This supply runs within the frontal abdominal muscles, which are removed with the fat and skin and unfortunately sacrificed to be moved to the breast. The result of lack of “6 pack” abdominal muscle can lead to weakness in the abdominal tissue and can herniate or bulge.

DIEP FLAP:

This is an advanced procedure of the TRAM FLAP. It uses the same skin and tissue without sacrificing the abdominal muscles. If there is not enough abdominal fatty tissue to restore the breast tissue then the GAP procedure is an option. The skin and fatty tissue can be taken from excess fat in the buttocks/hip area along with supplying blood vessels without sacrificing underlying muscle. The tissue is then sculpted into new breasts.

Implant reconstruction is typically performed as a staged procedure. The first stage is performed at the time of the mastectomy, where a temporary inflatable implant (tissue expander) is placed beneath the chest muscles after the mastectomy is completed. The purpose of this tissue expander is to stretch the skin in order to be able to later place an implant. The tissue expander is filled with saline injections typically performed weekly in the office following the mastectomy. After a period of at least 3 months, a second surgery is performed, where the tissue expander is removed and the permanent implant is placed. The current implants used are designed to be shaped like a natural breast. Both saline and silicone gel implants are available for reconstruction. Your plastic surgeon can discuss with you the various options for implant type, shape, and size.

Some women who have breast reconstruction also choose to have the nipple and areola reconstructed. Nipple/areola reconstruction is usually done at a later date after reconstruction of the breast is complete. This allows new breast tissue to heal and settle into place so minor adjustments in size and position can be carried out when the nipple and areola are reconstructed.

The nipple/areola reconstruction is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. Tissue for the nipple/areola is taken from the newly constructed breast. To match the color of the nipple of the other breast and to create the areola, medical tattooing is done at a later time.

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Physical and Emotional Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

Many women choose to have one or both of their breasts reconstructed after a mastectomy. Breast reconstruction surgery improves the appearance and confidence of women whose bodies have been altered as a result of disease.
Enhanced Sense of Wholeness and Overall Well-Being

Women who have endured a battle with breast cancer or another disease are left with painful emotional and physical scars. Not all women choose to have breast reconstruction surgery, but for many women, breasts are an important part of feeling feminine.