Breast Reconstruction – An Overview

A breast reconstruction is a surgery conducted to restore (or rather rebuild) the original shape of the breast after a mastectomy. It is a very common procedure opted for by women for the treatment and as such the Breast Reconstruction may be done immediately after the mastectomy or at a later date.

The decision to opt for a breast reconstruction depends on the woman, after all; it is only she who can decide what effect the loss of breast could put on her mind. Some women may choose to wear breast forms or pads, some may go in for the reconstruction while, some may do nothing at all.

A breast reconstruction would involve the replacement of skin, tissues in the breast, adding a nipple that was removed during the process of mastectomy. A breast reconstruction would also include tattooing the areola, adjusting the shape and size of the breast, operating the other breast in order to create a better symmetry etc.

A breast mound is created using artificial implants/ silicone implants or using the tissues from your own body from areas such as the belly, buttocks or back. The silicone implants are basically sacs of silicone which are filled with silicone gel or water.

Besides these there are many other ways by which a breast can be reconstructed. But, the suitability of the breast mound to your body would depend on a couple of factors such as your age, the treatment you are undergoing to treat your cancer, your overall health, whether you are a smoker or non-smoker etc.

The main aim of a breast reconstruction surgery is to provide you with a breast which “appears” as normal and natural as it can. Unfortunately, it doesn’t manage to have natural sensations like your actual breast – and this is the only hindrance. With the success rate of this procedure increasing with every operation, many women are glad they opted for this.

Most doctors would suggest that you go in for a breast reconstruction along with the mastectomy as this would reduce the trauma you would have to undergo on the removal of your breast. It would also reduce your expenses and the discomfort you would face. But, if you would still have to undergo chemotherapy, it would have to be postponed.