Every 14 seconds, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer somewhere in the world and faces the risk of losing her breasts, partially or completely.
Most women with breast cancer undergo some type of surgery as part of their treatment, and many of them opt for breast reconstruction afterwards.
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction, as the name may suggest, is a surgical procedure to recreate (reconstruct) breasts after breast cancer surgery. It can be performed soon after breast removal, called immediate breast reconstruction, or at a later time, called delayed breast reconstruction. However, those needing additional breast cancer treatments after surgery – chemotherapy and/or radiation – must complete the therapies before breast reconstruction.
There are different types of breast reconstruction techniques available. Some use implants –saline or silicone, while others involve extracting tissues from some other part of the body, such as the tummy, thighs, buttocks, or back, to rebuild or reshape breasts.
What Does Breast Reconstruction Correct?
Breast reconstruction helps fix the damage done by breast cancer. Breast surgeons use the procedure to recreate or repair missing or damaged breast tissues or to restore the lost symmetry between both breasts.
Who is Breast Reconstruction for?
Breast reconstruction was initially introduced for women who have undergone mastectomy. However, some may choose to have it after lumpectomy to reshape their breasts or to recreate symmetry between them.
It is important to note that breast reconstruction is a purely optional procedure, and some women may choose to remain flat after a mastectomy for various reasons.
Although breast reconstruction is more commonly used for those who have lost their breasts or a part of them to treat breast cancer, it is sometimes (less commonly) used to correct congenital breast tissue abnormalities.
Breast reconstruction is also used after a preventative mastectomy; breast removal surgery is performed to prevent breast cancer in high-risk patients.
How to Know What Type of Breast Reconstruction Surgery Do You Need?
A breast surgeon's job is to determine the most appropriate breast reconstruction method for each patient. Your healthcare provider will do it for you based on the following factors:
●Your age
●Weight; you may not make a good fit for the surgery if you’re obese
●Overall health condition; certain diseases, such as uncontrolled diabetes and blood circulation issues, may disqualify you from getting breast reconstruction surgery.
●The kind of breast cancer surgery you have had
●Your need for additional breast cancer treatment
●Your goals, i.e., your desired breast size, shape, and appearance
●Lifestyle factors, such as you shouldn’t be a smoker (talk to your doctor if you are but willing to give it up for breast reconstruction)
How Long Does Breast Reconstruction Take?
There is no definite answer to this, as the time taken for breast reconstruction can vary across patients depending on their needs and the type of breast reconstruction surgery they require. Moreover, some may only need a single surgery, while others may need multiple over several months for a complete reconstruction of breasts.
Should You Get Breast Reconstruction? The Advantages of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
The decision to get breast reconstruction or not is entirely personal. But for many people who have undergone breast cancer surgery, mastectomy in particular, the surgery offers several advantages. These include:
●Symmetrical breasts
●Balanced chest
●Better fit of clothes
●Regaining breasts after beating breast cancer
To many, breast reconstruction surgery can help improve confidence and self-esteem. They feel better about their body and appearance.
Breast reconstruction also helps those prone to breast cancer prevent the disease yet retain the natural shape of their body.
Are There Any Alternatives to Breast Reconstruction?
Although an alternative option is available, it isn’t permanent and may not offer the same feel as breast reconstruction. However, considering that many women do not want to undergo breast-rebuilding surgery for various reasons, it’s only wise to mention it.
Women who do not want to go through a breast reconstruction surgery but do not want to stay flat either have the option to use breast prostheses. It can be attached to the body or worn under the bra.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery Is Useful but Not Necessary
To sum up, suffice it to say that while breast reconstruction offers undeniable benefits to women who have lost their breasts, partially or completely, to breast cancer, it is not necessary to get the procedure done. The decision to have your breasts restored or recreated is completely personal and varies from person to person, and we should respect both choices as long as they are made by patients themselves without any pressure.
Author’s Bio
Dr. Shivram Singh is a leading cosmetic surgeon in Manchester and has been helping people achieve their aesthetic goals and look the best version of themselves for over 25 years. He is part of the dynamic team of aestheticians at Manchester Private Hospital and has performed numerous cosmetic surgeries, including transgender breast surgery, with great results.
