Breast Reconstruction(Mastectomy)

View Toledo Breast Reconstruction Before & After Pictures
View Detroit Breast Reconstruction Before & After Pictures

Breast reconstruction is performed through several plastic surgery techniques that restores the breast to near normal shape, appearance and size following mastectomy. Dramatic improvements in your self-image, self-confidence and quality of life are achieved with the creation of a new breast.  Although surgery can give you a moderately natural-looking breast, a reconstructed breast will never look or feel exactly the same as the breast that was removed. Breast reconstruction is both a physically and emotionally rewarding procedure for women who have lost breast tissue due to cancer or other condition.

IS BREAST RECONSTRUCTION RIGHT FOR ME?

Breast reconstruction is a good option for you if you are able to cope well with your diagnosis and treatment, you do not have additional medical conditions or other illnesses that may impair healing, and you have a positive outlook and realistic goals for restoring your breast and body image.

Breast reconstruction typically involves multiple stages of procedures performed. It can begin at the same time as mastectomy or until you heal from mastectomy and recover from any additional cancer treatments.

During your breast reconstruction consultation, you should be prepared to discuss why you want breast reconstructive surgery, your expectations and desired results, the options available in breast reconstruction surgery, the likely outcomes and any risks or potential complications.  Your surgeon will provide you with the course of treatment and procedures to achieve breast symmetry.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?

Following your surgery, an elastic bandage or support bra will minimize swelling and support the reconstructed breast. A small, thin tube (called a drain) may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.

Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions that may include: How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health.

Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling decreases and breast shape and position improve. Continue to follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT OVER TIME?

The final results of breast reconstruction following mastectomy can help lessen the physical and emotional impact of mastectomy.
Over time, sensation may return to the breast, and scar lines will improve, although they’ll never disappear completely.

There are trade-offs with Breast Reconstruction, however most women feel these are minimal compared to the large improvement in their quality of life and the ability to look and feel whole.

Continuous monitoring of breast health through self-exam, mammography and other diagnostic techniques is essential to your long-term health.