Breast Reconstruction

Plastic surgery for breast reconstruction involves the use of devices such breast expanders and implants, or the use of the patient's own (autologous) tissues from the abdomen, back or buttocks. Breast reconstruction can take place at the time of the mastectomy or later. The timing and type of breast reconstructive procedure depends on stage of the breast cancer, desires and anatomy of the patient, and health factors such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking.

Risks associated with the breast reconstruction include bleeding, seroma formation, infection, excessive scar tissue, and delayed wound healing. Breast reconstruction has no known effect on the recurrence of breast cancer nor does it generally interfere with chemotherapy or radiation. Breast surgery on the opposite breast to reduce or augment its size may be required to restore symmetry.

The first stage of breast reconstruction is the creation of the breast mound. A breast tissue expander inserted following the mastectomy begins staged breast reconstruction. Through a tiny valve mechanism buried beneath the skin, a salt-water solution is injected to fill the expander over several weeks or months. After the skin over the breast has stretched, the expander is removed and replaced by a permanent implant. The nipple and the areola are reconstructed in a subsequent procedure.

Use of the patient's own tissue is an alternative approach to breast reconstruction and involves creation of a breast mound using tissue taken from other parts of the body, such as the back, abdomen, or buttocks. A TRAM flap involves moving tissue from the abdomen into the breast area. Most breast reconstruction involves staged procedures. 

Most Popular Related Articles:
   
 Breast Reconstruction Implant Learn about breast reconstruction implant solutions.

 Breast Reconstruction Surgery Overview of procedures involved in breast reconstruction surgery.

 DIEP Breast Reconstruction Know what sets DIEP Breast Reconstruction procedure apart.

 Breast Reconstruction Mastectomy Different options for breast reconstruction mastectomy patients.

 Breast Reconstruction Recovery Best practices when recovering from breast reconstruction.

 Breast Reconstruction Surgeon Tips for finding a good breast reconstruction surgeon in your area.

 TRAM Breast Reconstruction What you need to know about TRAM Breast Reconstruction technique.