| What is it? |
- A breast reconstruction is an operation to restore the shape of the breast following surgical removal (mastectomy) because of breast cancer or other illness.
- There are two reconstruction methods used, depending upon your preference : Implant reconstruction, using an artificial implant or tissue reconstruction, using tissue from another area of your body.
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| What is involved? |
Implant Reconstruction
- If you choose an implant reconstruction, your surgeon will insert a pre-formed silicone or saline solution breast implant that matches your desired dimensions under the skin where your breast used to be.
- If your skin has been pulled tight following your mastectomy, it may be necessary to use a skin expander, often called a balloon expander, to stretch the skin enough to accommodate the implant.
- The expander is then filled with salt water solution over a period of time to assist in expanding the tissue gradually.
- Once the required size is achieved, your surgeon will reconstruct you areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple) and the procedure is complete.
- If your reconstruction is carried out at the same time as your mastectomy, the entire process is likely to take around 2 to 3 hours.
- You will require a general anaesthetic and you will need to stay in hospital overnight.
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Tissue reconstruction
- If your prefer not to have any foreign material in your body, your surgeon will take some tissue from either your back or stomach to recreate your new breast.
- This type of procedure, known as flap reconstruction, is generally regarded as more complex and is likely to leave several prominent scars around your body.
- Tissue reconstructions may require several different operations lasting up to 3 hours each, all of which will require a general anaesthetic and an overnight stay in hospital.
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| Your recovery |
- Your recovery will depend upon which procedure you have.
- You should expect to recover fully from an implant reconstruction within six to eight weeks.
- A tissue reconstruction can take longer.
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| Things to be aware of |
- You will feel sore for a few days after your operation Other risks include bleeding, seeping and possible infection.
- If you opt to have your reconstruction at the same time, or immediately following mastectomy, your risk of complications is reduced because you are having just one operation instead of two.
- Whichever procedure you choose, it is important to remember that whilst every effort is made to make your breast as life-like as possible, it will not be a perfect replica of the breast that was removed.
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| Your results |
- Breast reconstruction is permanent, although you must expect some change in appearance to develop over time.
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