Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Description
Restores the appearance of breasts that
have been surgically removed because of cancer or other diseases. Breast
reconstruction can help a woman’s breasts look balanced while wearing a bra,
permanently regain breast contour, and to give the convenience of not
needing an external prosthesis.
Duration
Usually, 1 to 2 hours. Due to microsurgery
required to reconnect blood vessels, flap reconstruction surgeries will take
longer.
Side Effects
Loss of normal sensation to the breast,
though some feeling may return.
Recovery
May take about 6 weeks to recover from a
combined mastectomy and reconstruction or from a flap reconstruction alone.
Most scars fade over time, but may take a few years to lighten.
Risks
Bleeding, fluid collection, excessive scar
tissue, infection, and problems with anesthesia. The implant can shift or
leak, requiring its removal. Using an implant carries a remote risk of
infection or capsular contraction, a condition that makes the scar, implant,
and breast feel hard. Capsular contracture may be treated with additional
surgery to remove the scar tissue. With any flap procedure, there is risk
that it may not reattach well to blood vessels, block blood flow and reject
the flap.
Results
Permanent. Usually require follow-up
procedures.
Technology
New technology and techniques have made it
possible for surgeons to recreate a new breast that closely matches a
natural breast. A patient’s own body tissue is used in various operations
known as a TRAM, DIEP and EARLi procedures. Breast reconstruction often
takes place immediately after a breast is removed (mastectomy) while the
patient is still under anesthesia.
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