The trauma of a breast cancer diagnosis is something that many Australian women will unfortunately experience during their lifetime. Treatment for breast cancer often involves draining and rigorous chemotherapy, coupled with the removal of one, or both, of the breasts. This procedure is called a mastectomy, and while it can be lifesaving, it can also have deep psychological impact, with many women reporting feelings of loss or disconnection to their body.
Breast reconstruction following a mastectomy enables many women to regain their self-confidence and familiarity with their body following the trauma of cancer treatment. Breast reconstruction following cancer treatment is a highly personal decision; however, should you choose to opt for reconstruction, Dr Andrew Raymond is an excellent choice of surgeon. Read on to find out more about breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.
There are several different methods used in breast reconstruction surgery, and Dr Andrew Raymond will ensure that you are fully informed of all of your options prior to your operation. There are four main categories of breast reconstruction surgery, all of which are performed by Dr Raymond.
Implant-based reconstruction, as implied by the name, involves the insertion of a silicone implant to create a new breast. These implants come in different shapes and sizes. Due to this, it’s important to discuss with your surgeon what your expectations are for the results of your surgery, so that an appropriate size and shape implant can be selected. In implant-based reconstruction, a tissue expander may also be used to create space for the silicone implant.
The second kind of surgical technique for breast reconstruction is Flap-Based ReconstructiveSurgery, also known as Autologous Reconstruction. ‘Autologous’ refers to tissue obtained from the patient. In this kind of procedure, tissue from other parts of the body is used to rebuild the breast. This tissue can be taken from numerous different areas, often the abdomen, the thighs, or the back of the patient.
Depending on the needs and desires of the patient, a combination approach can also be used to reconstruct the breast, in which a silicon implant is used in conjunction with autologous reconstruction.
Lastly, complementary surgical techniques may be used to enhance the results of the reconstruction. These additional techniques could include such aspects as lipofilling to create contours and shape, as well as breast lifting for aesthetic purposes. Nipple reconstruction can also be performed as part of reconstruction surgery.
Depending on yourchoice of procedure, your breast reconstruction could be done in one singleoperation, or over several procedures, spaced over a year or so.
The recovery time following breast reconstruction surgery depends on a number of different factors. Your choice of procedure and your overall health both impact the length of time of your recovery.
After your initial reconstruction procedure, regardless of the surgical technique used, you should plan to spend at least five nights in hospital. You will also receive comprehensive advice and guidance on taking care of your incision sites at home following your discharge from hospital. You can expect bruising and swelling to last for as long as eight weeks after your procedure. Pain management medication will be provided to you to aid in your comfort during this period. After around six to eight weeks after your procedure, you should expect to be getting back to your regular activities. Dr Raymond will advise you further as to what activities you can safely participate in during your recovery period.
As a reconstructive surgeon with a specialisation in breast surgery, Dr Andrew Raymond is perfectly positioned to answer any of your questions about breast reconstruction after cancer treatment. While we suggest talking to Dr Raymond prior to the beginning of your cancer treatment, we understand that doing so may not always be possible.
If you had a mastectomy years ago, it’s not too late for reconstruction. The surgery can be performed at any time following your mastectomy or can even be done as part of your removal surgery. To find out more about breast reconstruction after cancer treatment, please click here.
To book a consultation or chat to us, please call (02) 4963 1581 or contact us here.
