What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction for women is a surgical procedure designed to restore the shape, appearance, and symmetry of the breast following a mastectomy or lumpectomy performed as part of breast cancer treatment. Reconstruction can help many women regain confidence and feel more comfortable with their appearance after breast cancer surgery.
At Fox & Schingo Plastic Surgery, we work closely with each patient to develop a personalized breast reconstruction plan based on their cancer treatment, anatomy, lifestyle, and reconstructive goals.
Who Is a Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction may be appropriate for women who:
- Have undergone or are planning a mastectomy for breast cancer treatment
- Have breast deformities following lumpectomy or cancer treatment
- Desire restoration of breast shape and contour
- Are in good overall health and able to undergo surgery
- Have realistic expectations about the reconstructive process
Reconstruction can often be performed at the same time as a mastectomy or delayed until after chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other cancer treatments have been completed.
Breast Reconstruction Options
Several breast reconstruction techniques are available, and the best option depends on each patient's individual needs and treatment plan.
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Implant reconstruction uses a tissue expander and/or breast implant to create a natural-looking breast mound. This approach may require multiple stages and is one of the most commonly performed breast reconstruction procedures.
Autologous (Flap) Breast Reconstruction
Flap reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue from another area of the body to create a breast mound. Our doctors perform TRAM Flap (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap) reconstruction.
Using your own tissue can provide a natural look and feel while restoring breast contour after mastectomy.
Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Following breast mound reconstruction, additional procedures may be performed to reconstruct the nipple and areola. These procedures are typically completed in later stages of the reconstruction process.
Breast Symmetry Procedures
To improve overall balance and appearance, surgery on the opposite breast may be recommended. This may include:
- Breast lift (mastopexy)
- Breast reduction
- Breast augmentation
These procedures can help achieve better symmetry between the reconstructed and natural breast.
Where Is Breast Reconstruction Surgery Performed?
Breast reconstruction surgery is performed under anesthesia at Ellis Hospital. The length of hospital stay varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the type of reconstruction performed.
Benefits of Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction can help:
- Restore breast shape and volume following mastectomy
- Improve body image and self-confidence
- Enhance clothing fit and body symmetry
- Recreate a natural breast contour
- Support emotional recovery after breast cancer treatment
What Are the Trade-Offs of Breast Reconstruction?
Reconstruction following breast cancer is highly individualized, and the recovery experience varies depending on the surgical technique used.
Factors to consider include:
- Multiple surgical stages may be required
- Recovery times differ between implant and flap procedures
- Scarring is permanent, although it typically fades over time
- Additional procedures may be necessary to achieve optimal symmetry
- Some patients may experience changes in breast sensation
During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss the advantages and limitations of each reconstructive option to help you make an informed decision.
What Are the Risks of Breast Reconstruction?
As with any surgery, breast reconstruction carries potential risks. The specific risks depend on the reconstruction method selected and may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Delayed wound healing
- Fluid collections (seroma)
- Scarring
- Implant-related complications
- Changes in sensation
- Fat necrosis in flap procedures
- Asymmetry
- Need for revision surgery
Your surgeon will review all potential risks and answer your questions during your consultation.
Recovery After Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the type of reconstruction performed.
In general, patients can expect:
- Several days to a week of initial recovery
- Activity restrictions for approximately 4–6 weeks
- No heavy lifting during the early healing period
- Gradual return to normal activities as directed by your surgeon
- Additional recovery periods if staged reconstruction procedures are planned
Detailed postoperative instructions will be provided based on your individual treatment plan.
