For a lot of women out there, breasts are an integral part of their feeling of womanhood and naturally, breast restoration after mastectomy or a breast trauma is an important part of rehabilitation. Most women decide to take up breast reconstruction to bring back the shape and composition of the breast(s).
The choice to take up breast reconstruction is often an intimate one and the choice should only be made after extensive thought and research. It usually helps to revive the feeling of contentment and fullness to the recipients.
A Perspective on Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is not a must after mastectomy, it is optional and is usually done to bring back the appearance of natural breasts. It can aid in enhancing the symmetry of the breasts and enable the patient to be more confident of their body. Suitable candidates for this procedure need to be at a reasonably healthy weight with little or no medical problems.
A consultation with a qualified doctor is essential to determine if you are suitable for the procedure. During this time, your doctor will need to take into account the cancer therapies that you have undertaken and your current health condition.
How Is the Procedure Performed
Breast reconstruction can be done with a number of techniques such as utilizing the patient’s own tissue or utilizing breast implants. A combination of the previously mentioned methods can also be used in certain cases. Let us take a closer look at what it involves.
Breast Implants: If the breast reconstruction is to be done using implants, the first step involves making use of a tissue enlarger to make the area ready to receive the breast implant. This enlargement usually takes about two to six months to be completed. After the cavity is created, the breast implant, which can be either the saline or silicone one, is put into place to create the breast mass.
Flap reconstruction: This process makes use of the patient’s muscle or fat to fabricate a breast mass. There are a multitude of flap procedures such as- TRAM (Transverse rectus abdominis) flap utilizes the patient’s muscles and or tissues from the lower abdomen to restore the breast, DIEP (Deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap or SIEA (Superficial inferior epigastric perforator) flap utilize fat and skin alone excluding muscle from the abdominal region and latissimus dorsi flap utilizes the combination of skin, muscle, and fat from the back that is passed through to the breast area.
The final choice of breast reconstruction method will be made taking into account the individual inclination, specific anatomy and the recommendation of the doctor.
Prognosis After the Surgery
After the breast reconstruction surgery, one may require drains to get rid of any excess fluids. It is imperative that you strictly adhere to any post operative instructions given to you by your doctor. The time required for recovery will depend on your individual anatomy and the extent of your surgery.
Contact Our Office
Not happy with the look of your breasts? Contact us to learn more about breast reconstruction and the benefits it can provide you. During your consultation with Newport Body, you can ask any of the questions you have about the procedure in a safe and comfortable environment.
