Do You Really Need Breast Reconstruction?
October 31, 2009
When a woman has a mastectomy, a surgery that is performed to repair the shape of her breast after having it removed due to cancer or some other condition, she may consider having a surgical procedure called breast reconstruction performed.
The surgery is performed typically to help a woman feel “whole” again. Reconstructive breast surgery is a major surgical procedure and requires some meaningful thought and thorough research before making the big decision.
Here is some information on reconstructive breast surgery that any woman should know if she is considering having the procedure done.
What is reconstructive breast surgery?
During reconstructive breast surgery a woman’s breast is recreated and reshaped. The surgeon will recreate the breast by either inserting an implant into the woman’s body or by taking tissues from an area of the body that has excess such as the woman’s stomach, her rear end or her back.
Reconstructive breast surgery may take more than one procedure. If a second procedure is required, at this time the surgeon will place a nipple on the new breast or he may need to resize the breasts. The surgeon may also consider operating on the existing breast to make sure that the two breasts match each other.
Is breast reconstruction surgery right for you?
The best way to know if a woman is suitable for breast reconstruction surgery is by talking to her surgeon. The doctor will discuss the woman’s medical condition with her to determine if she is a good candidate.
Women who have smaller breasts are typically more suitable candidates for the surgery. Women with larger breasts may still be eligible for the surgery though. In the case of a woman with large breasts, the surgeon will incorporate both an implant as well as existing tissue from the body.
What are the risks of this surgery?
Because this is a major surgery, there are many risks. They range from less threatening risks such as sensitivity in the breast area to long term scarring. Some of the riskier problems that may occur from having this procedure performed are a reaction to the anesthesia being used, infection, problems with the implant or the body rejecting the tissue that was used.
If a woman undergoes the surgery, it is important that she listens to her surgeon’s instructions prior to and after the procedure is performed. This can help her avoid complications.
What costs will be incurred?
Many aspects make up the final cost of breast reconstruction surgery. Some facilities that perform the surgery may be able to work out a payment plan. The most common costs include the cost for anesthesia, the cost to use the facility, the surgeon’s payment, medical prescriptions and any tests that need to be performed.
What is the recovery process?
The recovery process after having breast reconstruction can be a long one. It depends how long it takes until the swelling goes down. While in recovery, it is best that the woman follows her surgeon’s instructions.




























