Reconstructing The Breasts After Mastectomy or Lumpectomy

Breast reconstruction surgery encompasses a variety of procedures which can be performed to restore the form and shape of breasts following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Before undergoing your mastectomy or lumpectomy you should discuss your cancer surgery with your plastic surgeon because the cancer removal surgery may significantly affect which breast reconstruction options are available to you and may alter the results.

You might consider a breast reconstruction if:

• You feel a reconstruction would give you a sense of psychological well being and a feeling of "wholeness"
• You wish to restore feelings of femininity and feel confident in your appearance
• You want to improve symmetry if only one of your breasts has been affected by your cancer surgery
• You want to be able to wear low cut necklines and normal swimwear without feeling self conscious

By choosing to undergo breast reconstruction you will no longer have to cope with wearing external breast forms or pads in order to feel feminine. The surgery can also remove reminders of your cancer experience and mastectomy and improve your psychological well being by helping you regain your self confidence.

However, breast reconstruction surgery may also interfere with the natural state of your body, which is only returning to full health. Before you decide if breast reconstruction surgery is right for you discuss it with your doctor and your plastic surgeon. You may also experience a longer than normal recovery period since radiation therapy causes delays in wound healing. How long ago you completed your radiation therapy will also significantly affect the timing of your breast reconstruction, and radiation therapy can affect what types of breast reconstruction surgeries are available to you.

There are three basic options for breast reconstruction surgery:

• Using silicone or saline breast implants
• Reconstructing the breast using your own skin, fat and muscle
• A combination of the two previous methods

Speak with your plastic surgeon about your aesthetic desires and your health so that he or she can help you determine which method is best for you. He or she will also advise you on how to prep for your surgery and what you should expect your recovery to be like.

Dr. Adil Ladak is a board certified plastic surgeon based in Edmonton Alberta. His specialties include facial surgery, breast surgery, body contouring and skin treatments. Contact Dr. Ladak at 780.407.6691 to book your consultation.