Reconstruction

What Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery is a procedure that aims to recreate the shape, appearance, and feel of a natural breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It can be performed using a variety of techniques, depending on the individual’s preferences, body type, and the extent of surgery.

There are two main types of breast reconstruction:

• Implant-Based Reconstruction: This method uses saline or silicone implants to rebuild the breast mound. Implants can be placed either immediately after a mastectomy (known as immediate reconstruction) or months or years later (delayed reconstruction).
• Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction: This method uses tissue from another part of the body, such as the abdomen, back, or thighs, to create a new breast. Flap procedures can create a more natural look and feel but are generally more complex and require longer recovery times.
  
  Some individuals may opt for a combination of both methods.
  

The Process of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction surgery typically involves multiple steps, and the specific process depends on the type of reconstruction chosen.

Implant-Based Reconstruction:

• Stage 1: The first stage involves placing a tissue expander (a balloon-like device) under the skin and chest muscle to create space for the implant. Over the course of several weeks, saline is injected into the expander to gradually stretch the tissue.
• Stage 2: After sufficient expansion, the expander is replaced with a permanent breast implant, either saline or silicone. This can be done in a single surgery or in two separate procedures.

Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction:

This procedure involves removing tissue from another area of the body, such as the abdomen (the TRAM flap), back (the latissimus dorsi flap), or thighs (the DIEP flap), and using it to create a new breast mound. The donor site is closed, and the tissue is transferred to the chest to form the new breast.

Nipple and Areola Reconstruction:

After the breast mound is created, some individuals choose to undergo nipple and areola reconstruction for a more natural appearance. This procedure can be done using skin grafts or tattooing to replicate the nipple and areola.

Learn more about nipple resconstruction

Recovery After Breast Reconstruction Surgery

The recovery process for breast reconstruction depends on the type of surgery performed and whether additional treatments like radiation therapy are involved. While immediate reconstruction is often performed at the same time as a mastectomy, some women may choose to delay reconstruction for months or even years after their cancer treatment.

Initial Recovery (First Few Weeks):

• Hospital Stay: Most women will need to stay in the hospital for a few days following reconstruction, especially if the surgery was more extensive (e.g., flap reconstruction). During this time, the surgical site will be monitored for complication.
• Pain Management: Pain and discomfort are common after surgery. Your healthcare provider will prescribe medications to manage pain and help you through the initial healing phase.
• Drainage: After surgery, drains may be placed to remove excess fluid from the surgical site. These drains typically stay in place for several days or weeks.
  

Long-Term Recovery (Several Weeks to Months):

• Scarring and Sensitivity: Scarring is a natural part of the healing process. Some individuals may also experience altered sensation or numbness in the reconstructed breast or donor site.
• Physical Therapy: After flap-based reconstruction, physical therapy may be necessary to regain movement in the donor area, particularly if tissue was taken from the abdomen or back.
• Radiation Therapy: If radiation is required, it will generally follow the reconstruction surgery. However, radiation can sometimes impact the final appearance and healing of the reconstructed breast.
  

Mastectomy Fitters and Choosing the Right Post-Surgery Bras

After breast reconstruction, one of the most important aspects of recovery is selecting the right post-surgery bras. These specially designed bras provide support and comfort during the healing process and can help manage swelling, support the reconstructed breast, and assist with symmetry.