Reconstruction of a
breast that has been removed due to cancer
or other disease is one of the most rewarding
surgical procedures available today. New
medical techniques and devices have made
it possible for surgeons to create a breast
that can come close in form and appearance
to matching a natural breast. Frequently,
reconstruction is possible immediately following
breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient
wakes up with a breast mound already in place,
having been spared the experience of seeing
herself with no breast at all. Tissue may
be taken from the abdomen and tunneled to
the breast or surgically transplanted to
form a new breast mound. Follow-up procedures
may be necessary. Most breast reconstruction
involves a series of procedures that occur
over time. Usually, the initial reconstructive
operation is the most complex. Follow-up
surgery may be required to replace a tissue
expander with an implant or to reconstruct
the nipple and the areola. Many surgeons
recommend an additional operation to enlarge,
reduce, or lift the natural breast to match
the reconstructed breast.
Chances are your reconstructed breast may feel firmer and look rounder or flatter than your natural breast. It may not have the same shape as your breast before mastectomy, nor will it exactly match your opposite breast. But these differences will mostly be apparent only to you. For most patients who have a mastectomy, breast reconstruction dramatically improves their appearance and quality of life following surgery. As with all surgical procedures, you should discuss all potential risks and benefits with your surgeon.
For more information on this procedure contact Dr. Salomon's Miami office today at 305-270-1361 or email us.
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