BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
Breast Reconstruction (Reconstructive Surgery)
There are many options available in the process of breast reconstruction. Perhaps the most important question is: Is breast reconstruction the right choice for you? For tens of thousands of breast cancer patients, the answer has been yes.
Today, most women who have undergone mastectomy are good candidates for breast reconstruction. After mastectomy, women choose to undergo various types of breast reconstruction. Some feel a sense of loss or do not feel feminine. For many women, breast reconstruction is a way to feel better about themselves and make a fresh start in life.
Faster and easier breast reconstruction…
There are newer and easier surgical procedures available for women opting for breast reconstruction, and these generally yield good results. One of these newer surgical techniques is called single-stage breast reconstruction, which is explained in the brochure.
What is Mastectomy?
Mastectomy is the removal of breast tissue due to the development of cancerous or pre-cancerous cells. The amount of tissue removed during a mastectomy is not always the same; it varies depending on the size and stage of the cancer, body type, and personal preferences.
Breast Anatomy
The breast is composed of fat, glandular, and fibrous tissues. Beneath the breast lies the pectoralis major, a large muscle that assists in arm movements.
Timing of Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction can be done either during the same operation as mastectomy or weeks, months, and even years after mastectomy. This is referred to as early reconstruction or delayed reconstruction. Depending on your personal circumstances, you and your doctor can determine which method is best for you.
Early Reconstruction
The advantage of early breast reconstruction is the repair of your breast during the same operation as mastectomy. This means avoiding the experience of having only one breast.
Delayed Reconstruction
The advantage of delayed reconstruction is that it allows you to focus on recovering from cancer and regaining your strength first. Delaying breast reconstruction gives you more time to review your options and make an informed decision about breast reconstruction.
Breast Reconstruction Options
There are different ways to repair your breast. The method you choose with your doctor depends on various factors, including:
- Your health and lifestyle
- Body type
- Breast size
- Personal preference
- Amount of remaining tissue and skin
Breast reconstruction can be done using your own body tissue, with breast implants, or using a combination of your tissue and a breast implant. By discussing all options with your doctor, you can make the right decision for yourself.
Use of Your Own Tissue for Breast Reconstruction / Latissimus Dorsi Flap
One of the methods used to repair your breasts using your own tissue is called the latissimus dorsi flap. During this procedure, a piece of skin and muscle from your back or under your arm is taken and used in the breast area to repair your breasts. Sometimes, this method is combined with a breast implant to give your new breasts a fuller shape because the skin and muscle on your back are typically quite thin.
Breast Implant and Implant-Free Latissimus Dorsi Flap
Step 1: Skin flap and muscle are taken from the donor area on the back.
Step 2: Tissue is used to reconstruct the breast mound.
Step 3: An implant can be used to create the breast mound.
TRAM Flap
Another way to repair your breasts using your own tissue is called the TRAM Flap. This procedure involves taking fat and muscle from the abdomen area and transferring it to the chest area to repair the breasts. Sometimes, it is possible to preserve the amount of blood supply and connection to the abdomen area. When this is not possible, blood vessels in the abdominal tissue need to be connected to the chest area using microsurgery.
Step 1: Mastectomy is performed, and the donor area is marked.
Step 2: Rectus muscle and tissue flap are shifted to the chest.
Step 3: Final result.
Breast Reconstruction with Implants
During a mastectomy, the surgeon removes the skin and breast tissue and makes the chest tissues flat and tight. Before placing a long-term implant, the breast tissue must be expanded to make room for the implant. This process is called tissue expansion and can typically be done in two stages or a single stage.
Two-Stage Breast Reconstruction
Two-stage breast reconstruction using implants is a very popular option. This procedure can be performed either at the same time as mastectomy or at a later stage.
How Is It Done?
A temporary tissue expander is placed in the breast. Over weeks, your doctor gradually fills the expander with a saline-like fluid. During this process, your skin gradually stretches, making room for the implant. Just as a woman’s body gradually adjusts to the growing belly during pregnancy, your body will gradually adapt to the growing implant.