What Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
For women who have survived breast cancer but have had to lose a breast in the process, breast reconstructive surgery can be a viable option. Advances in medicine and technology allow plastic surgeons to rebuild the removed breast in order to match the shape and size of the other. Women who have undergone a lumpectomy may not have lost their breast entirely, however, studies have shown that 10 to 30 percent of women do not like the way that their breasts look after undergoing a lumpectomy. For these women, breast reconstruction may benefit them as well.
Breast Reconstruction Options
There are two main types of breast reconstruction – implant and autologous. Reconstruction using implants involves using either saline or silicone to add fullness and shape back to the breast. Reconstruction using implants is a common surgical procedure in the United States.
Autologous, or flap, reconstruction is a technique that takes fat, skin and sometimes muscle from another area of the body and transfers it to the breast in order to rebuild the breast using natural means. Depending on the situation, the plastic surgeon may also reconstruct the breast by using the body’s own tissue and implants at the same time.
Surgery options will be discussed with you during your consultation, and it can be determined during that time which type of surgery may be right for you.
Is Breast Reconstruction Right For Me?
There are several things you may need to consider before you get breast reconstruction surgery. Depending on the breast’s condition, you may need to have multiple surgeries with varying amounts of recovery and healing time. Your overall health is something else that needs to be evaluated. If you have a circulatory problem, diabetes or other medical condition, it may take your body longer to heal. Drinking alcohol and smoking can also slow down healing time. It can be determined during your consultation whether this is the appropriate procedure for you.
Recovery Time
You may feel sore and tired for the first two weeks after your procedure. Pain can be expected, but it can be controlled with medication. The swelling and bruising may last for up to eight weeks, and you may be able to return to your normal activities within six to eight weeks.
It could potentially take one or two years for the surgical scars to fade, and they may never go away completely. Make sure that you follow all of your plastic surgeon’s instructions in order to ensure a smooth recovery. If you notice lumps, skin changes or fluid leaking from your new breast, contact your surgeon as soon as possible.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re interested in breast reconstruction, Dr. Stephen Salerno could be able to help. Located in Moonee Ponds and Werribee, Real Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery offers different breast treatments including breast lift and reconstruction. We’ll work with you to determine the most effective treatment plan for your needs. Contact Real Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation.
