What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Navigating the journey of a breast cancer diagnosis is an emotional rollercoaster for the majority of women. The decision of whether to proceed with post-surgical breast reconstruction is a personal one. While some women choose not to undergo breast reconstruction following mastectomies or lumpectomy, many women feel that this is an important part of their journey.
Breast reconstruction is a transformative surgical procedure designed to rebuild one or both breasts after mastectomy or significant breast tissue loss due to a lumpectomy.
In addition, individuals with congenital deformities or severe injuries to the breast can also benefit from breast reconstruction. This procedure plays a crucial role in regaining a sense of wholeness and confidence, regardless of the needed reason.
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What Are the Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Breast tissue loss causes asymmetry and often a significant decrease in self-assurance as a result. Breast reconstruction offers the following physical and emotional benefits:
- Enhanced body contour: Breast reconstruction balances the upper body to restore smooth feminine contours.
- Fashion choices: Breast reconstruction patients often find that they can resume wearing their favorite clothes without taking special measures with padding.
- Improved body image: Breast reconstruction has a profound impact on self-esteem and can help individuals regain confidence in the appearance of their bodies.
- Counseling and Support: Emotional support and counseling services are often available to assist patients throughout the reconstruction process.
Are You a Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Ideal candidates for breast reconstruction are those who have experienced:
- Mastectomy: Individuals who have undergone mastectomy due to breast cancer or other medical reasons.
- Lumpectomy: Those who have undergone partial breast removal may also be candidates for reconstruction to restore symmetry.
- Breast injuries: Patients with breast skin and tissue loss due to trauma.
- Congenital breast anomalies: Patients born with a genetic breast abnormality, such as asymmetry, constricted breast deformity, amazia (absent nipple), amastia (absent breast), accessory nipple, inverted nipple, and non-cancerous cysts, tumors, lumps, and bumps.
Emotional readiness, a clear understanding of the procedure, and realistic expectations for results are crucial for successful outcomes. The best way to determine your candidacy for breast reconstruction is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Venditto.
When you choose Dr. Venditto for breast reconstruction, you will benefit from an extended consultation, at which time she works closely with you to understand your concerns and individual goals. After reviewing your curative surgery procedure and medical history, she will explain your options and create a customized surgical plan.
How Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery Performed?
Breast reconstruction is individually tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs but involves the following basic steps:
- Anesthesia: Breast reconstruction is typically performed under general anesthesia.
- Tissue expander placement: In implant-based reconstruction, a tissue expander may be placed initially to stretch the skin gradually.
- Direct-to-implant breast reconstruction: Certain patients are candidates for placement of an implant immediately at the time of mastectomy. Dr. Venditto will discuss with you at your consultation whether you may be a candidate for this approach.
- Nipple and areola reconstruction: For a more natural appearance, nipple and areola reconstruction may be performed as the final stage of the reconstructive journey.
Reconstruction Techniques
- Implant-based breast reconstruction: Involves placing a saline or silicone implant to create the breast mound.
- Autologous tissue reconstruction: Utilizes the patient’s own tissue (flap reconstruction) to reconstruct the breast, providing a more natural feel
Immediate vs. Delayed Reconstruction
- Immediate breast reconstruction: Dr. Venditto works with your mastectomy surgeon for immediate reconstruction. This option offers the advantage of waking up with a reconstructed breast. In this case, nipple and areola reconstruction is usually performed later.
- Delayed breast reconstruction: This option is performed at a later date after the completion of cancer treatment to allow time for healing and determine the appropriate reconstruction technique.
What Is Recovery From Breast Reconstruction Surgery Like?
Depending on the complexity of the surgery, breast reconstruction may be performed as an outpatient procedure, or a hospital stay may be required.
- Postoperative monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to check the healing process, adjust tissue expanders if used, and address any concerns.
- Supportive garments: Compression garments may be recommended to support the reconstructed breast and aid healing.
Depending on the extent of your surgery and if you had immediate reconstruction, you can expect your downtime to range from a few weeks to a few months.
Follow Dr. Venditto’s post-surgical instructions and avoid all strenuous activities until cleared to resume your regular routine.
Possible Risks and Complications of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Routine follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the health of the reconstructed breast.
Infections are more common in the reconstructive setting, particularly with implant-based breast reconstruction, when compared to cosmetic breast procedures. This is due to the severe alteration in vascular anatomy following mastectomy. Following Dr. Venditto’s post-operative protocol and prioritizing follow-up visits is critical to avoid complications.
Implant-related complications, such as rupture or leakage, may occur and require attention. Those having silicone breast implants placed will need periodic MRI imaging to check for these complications.
What to Expect From Your Breast Reconstruction Surgery Results
Breast reconstruction often involves 2-4 procedures over the course of a year. Dr. Venditto works with all of her reconstructive patients to create a customized surgical plan based on their goals.
Breast reconstruction is often more than a physical restoration; it considerably impacts a person’s mental and emotional well-being while helping to restore self-confidence.
For many individuals who have undergone mastectomy as part of breast cancer treatment, breast reconstruction represents a significant step towards completing their journey and embracing life after cancer. This procedure allows individuals to lead an active lifestyle without substantial limitations.
View Before & After PhotosYour Athens, GA, Breast Reconstruction Expert
Breast reconstruction is a deeply personal and empowering journey, offering physical and emotional restoration to those who have faced breast cancer, traumatic breast injuries, or congenital breast deformities.
This transformative experience supports individuals in embracing life beyond breast cancer and navigating the path to acceptance and wholeness.
Dr. Venditto understands the complexities of breast reconstruction surgery and its impact on the overall well-being of her patients. Call 706-363-0256 and schedule a convenient time to meet with our highly skilled and experienced surgeon.
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