Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy
Reconstruction Mammoplasty
Breast reconstruction after surgical cancer treatment surgery of the breast corrects disfigurement and reconstructs a new breast. This includes creating the breast mound and making a new nipple areolar complex (NAC). Tattooing of the NAC is usually done as well to provide appropriate color. Usually matching surgery is performed on the healthy opposite breast. The goal is to create a pair of breasts that are comfortable and natural with good size, shape, and symmetry. Dr. Payne has over 20 years of experience performing state-of-the-art reconstructive breast surgery, and this has been one of his defining interests in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Procedural Illustrations [Click to enlarge +]
Procedure
Breast reconstruction can be done at the same time as the mastectomy (immediate) or after the client has healed from a mastectomy (delayed). Cancer treatment of the breast (including lumpectomy, partial mastectomy, modified radical mastectomy, or radical mastectomy) can cause a wide variety of aesthetic problems, so there are a wide variety of reconstructive options.
With some breast cancer surgeries, chemotherapy is necessary — usually following breast cancer surgery, but occasionally preceding it. Radiation therapy may be necessary as well and usually is given after the cancer surgery. These therapies can complicate the breast reconstruction process, so the timing and type of reconstruction must be individually determined for each client. Breast reconstruction can be accomplished in a variety of ways, including the use of implants (saline or silicone), expanders, expander-implants, and autologous tissue such as the TRAM flap or Latissiumus Dorsi flap.
Usually at least two separate operations are required to csomplete breast reconstruction, which can be staged three to six months apart if the client wishes. This includes matching surgery on the opposite breast, which is often necessary to create good symmetry between the two breasts.
Breast reconstruction surgery is usually a covered medical benefit in most health insurance plans, and Dr. Payne participates with most plans.
Before & After Photographs
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Results
A diagnosis of cancer is always stressful, and breast cancer, the most common female cancer, can strike as early as the 30s. Having a breast partially or totally removed can be both physically and psychologically devastating, as breasts are a key physical characteristic for women and are intimately involved in self-image and a sense of femininity. Reconstructing new breasts for breast cancer clients helps tremendously with re-establishing balance and self-esteem. It is a physical and psychological renewal.
For the average client, the breast reconstruction process can be completed within one year. Most clients require two operations. Once reconstruction is done, most women can resume normal lifestyles with no restrictions. It is possible, however, that additional surgery will be required later on. Usually these are simple surgeries and are covered by medical insurance. Dr. Payne discusses all of these issues with each client, and we typically follow clients for five years after the reconstructive surgery has been completed..
After the Surgery
Breast reconstruction surgery may require a one- to two-day stay in the hospital, or may be done on an outpatient basis. Each client is given detailed written postoperative instructions as well as appropriate medications. Most clients are seen one to two times per week in the office for the first month following surgery. The average client usually requires four to six weeks to make a full recovery.
