Will I need breast reconstruction after mastectomy?
-
Dr. Justin Sacks of Johns Hopkins Medicine answered:Breast reconstruction is like the "light at the end of the tunnel." While cancer treatment such as mastectomy is critically important for your physical health, think of reconstruction as equally important for your emotional health. A recent study from the University of Toronto published just last month (October, 2011) in the Journal "Cancer" showed that women who underwent breast reconstruction after mastectomy had significant improvements in "breast satisfaction, psychosocial wellbeing, and sexual wellbeing." The benefits have been so compelling that for the last 13+ years the federal government has mandated insurance companies to cover reconstructive operations. Moreover, the 1998 Federal Breast Reconstruction Law guarantees insurance coverage for women in need of surgery on the unaffected breast to create symmetry. Therefore, while women don't "need" reconstruction to live a long life, breast reconstruction can fulfill a need for enhanced quality of life.
Breast reconstruction is like the "light at the end of the tunnel." While cancer treatment such as mastectomy is critically important for your physical health, think of reconstruction as equally important for your emotional health. A recent study... More -
Breast reconstruction is often done by a plastic surgeon immediately after mastectomy, but may also be done in a later setting. The decision to have reconstruction surgery, and which type to have, is an individual one. After you discuss it with your breast surgeon and plastic surgeon, you will be able to make a choice that is right for you.
Breast reconstruction is often done by a plastic surgeon immediately after mastectomy, but may also be done in a later setting. The decision to have reconstruction surgery, and which type to have, is an individual one. After you discuss it with your... More -
Dr. Stuart Linder answered:Many patients do elect to have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. The advantages include recreating symmetry and a normal appearance both in and out of the brassiere. Consultation with the Board Certified Plastic surgeon should be made prior to the mastectomy with the General surgeon. It is important to understand all risks and benefits of the surgery. Approaches for breast reconstruction include: tissue expanders with permanent silicone implant placement after several months, Autologous tissue flaps (TRAM flap, Lattissimus Dorsi flap, DIEP flap, and Free-flap with microvascular anastomosis.
Many patients do elect to have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. The advantages include recreating symmetry and a normal appearance both in and out of the brassiere. Consultation with the Board Certified Plastic surgeon should be made prior... More
