Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is achieved through several plastic surgery techniques that attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape, appearance and size following mastectomy.

• Although breast reconstruction can rebuild your breast, the results are highly variable:
• A reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation and feel as the breast it replaces.
  Scars will always be present on the breast, whether from reconstruction or mastectomy.
• Certain reconstructive techniques will leave scars at the donor site, usually located in less exposed areas of the body such as the back, abdomen or buttocks.

A note about symmetry: If only one breast is affected, it alone may be reconstructed. In addition, a breast lift, breast reduction or breast augmentation may be recommended for the opposite breast to improve symmetry of the size and position of both breasts.

Consultation

The success and safety of your breast reconstruction procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. You’ll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.

Be prepared to discuss:

• Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments.
• Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
  Previous surgeries.
• The options available in breast reconstruction surgery.
• The likely outcomes of breast reconstruction and any risks or potential complications.
• The course of treatment recommended by your plastic surgeon, including procedures to achieve breast symmetry.

Your surgeon may also:

• Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors.
• Examine your breasts, and take detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality, and placement of nipples and areolae.
• Take photographs for your medical record.
• Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment.
• Discuss likely outcomes of breast reconstruction and any risks or potential complications.

Results

View breast reconstruction before and after pictures »