Reconstructive plastic surgery for breast cancer is performed to
replace skin, breast tissue, and the nipple removed during
mastectomy. The amount of missing tissue varies with each
mastectomy. Factors contributing to the amount of tissue removed
include the width, size, and location of the original tumor, and
its proximity to the armpit (called the axilla), where the lymph
glands are removed.
The ultimate goal of reconstruction is to restore symmetry
between the two breasts.
Is reconstruction right for me?
The choice that
is right for one woman won't necessarily be
right for another. That's because the long-term prospects of living
without a breast or part of a breast affect every woman
differently.
After your mastectomy, you might choose to wear external breast
forms or pads, or make no attempt to alter your appearance. On the
other hand, you might choose breast reconstruction, using either
breast implants or your own tissue.
Improvements in plastic surgery techniques offer better results
today than ever before and make breast reconstruction an option for
most women facing a mastectomy.
Many women believe that breast reconstruction not only improves
physical appearance, but has psychological benefits as well. It's
thought to promote a sense of wellness for the woman and her
family.
The decision, however, is a personal one and is often not easy
to make.
Is this considered cosmetic surgery?
Restoring
the breast is not considered cosmetic surgery.
Operations performed to restore anatomy and symmetry, like breast
reconstruction after a mastectomy, are considered
reconstructive surgery. Since breast reconstruction after
mastectomy is part of the treatment of a disease and not cosmetic
surgery, according to the American Medical Association, health
insurance companies usually pay the major portion of the cost of
the procedure. Contact your insurer about your coverage.
When is the best time to have reconstruction?
Timing of reconstructive surgery is based on the woman's
desires, other medical conditions, and cancer treatment. Whenever
possible, plastic surgeons encourage women to begin breast
reconstruction at the same time they are having their mastectomy.
For many women, immediate reconstruction reduces the trauma of
having a breast removed, as well as the expense and discomfort of
undergoing two major operations.
It is also possible to do the reconstruction months or years
after a mastectomy. If chemotherapy or radiation treatments have
been started, reconstruction may need to be postponed until those
treatments are completed.
The surgical team can help you decide the best time for
reconstruction.