The Importance of Breast Reconstruction

If you have had surgery to remove part or all of one or both breasts secondary to cancer, you may be a candidate for breast reconstruction surgery to restore the shape and size of your breasts.

Recent advances in surgical techniques and procedures allow plastic surgeons to recreate breasts that feel and look natural.

Although no one elects to have a mastectomy, it can be reassuring to know there are options to help you restore your appearance and put cancer behind you. In some cases, mastectomy patients who undergo breast reconstruction surgery find that their reconstructed breasts may be firmer, more youthful, and more attractive than their natural breasts.

Breast reconstruction surgery can:

• Help you feel better about your appearance
• Restore your self confidence
• Make your breasts look even in size and shape
• Help you feel more comfortable in clothing, including bathing suits and bras
• Eliminate the need for uncomfortable prostheses

When to Have Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Your plastic surgeon can perform breast reconstruction surgery at the time of your mastectomy or later if you prefer. When to have your surgery will depend on whether you need additional treatment for cancer as well as your desires. But it is never too late to have breast reconstruction surgery.

In many cases, plastic surgeons can partner with breast cancer surgeons to coordinate breast reconstruction surgery.

Options in Breast Reconstruction

The good news is that new techniques in breast reconstruction surgery give you more options than ever. Your plastic surgeon can explain each procedure and, depending on whether you have had a partial or full mastectomy, guide you to the procedure that’s best for you.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures

There are effective options for reconstructing breasts to look and feel natural, including flap reconstruction surgery and breast implants.

The type or types of procedure(s) you choose will depend on whether you have had a unilateral or bilateral mastectomy. For example, if you have one breast removed, your plastic surgeon can reconstruct the area of the removed breast as well as reshape, reduce, enlarge, and lift the opposite breast to achieve symmetry.

If you have a double mastectomy, you can choose a series of procedures over time that can include implants or flap reconstruction to help ensure that your breasts are well balanced with your frame and appear as natural as possible. Many women also choose to have a new nipple and areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple) reconstructed.

After Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Your recovery from breast reconstruction surgery will depend on the type of surgery you choose as well as whether you need one or both breasts reconstructed. Your plastic surgeon can help prepare you for what to expect after breast reconstruction. In addition, your surgeon will prescribe the medications you need to be as comfortable as possible during the early stages of healing.

After breast reconstruction, you will need plenty of time to rest. Your plastic surgeon can tell you when you can return to normal activities, but for many breast reconstruction patients it takes up to 6 weeks before resuming exercise, lifting things, and other vigorous activities.

Insurance Coverage for Breast Reconstruction

Most insurance plans cover the costs of breast reconstruction procedures. To find out details of your coverage, speak with a representative with your insurance company. He or she can tell you what your plan covers and how and when to implement your coverage.

Your plastic surgeon and his or her staff understand that having a mastectomy and undergoing breast reconstruction can be overwhelming. For this reason and because they want to help make the process as manageable for you as possible, they can help guide you to the questions to ask of and answers you need from your insurer. If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, don’t hesitate to ask your plastic surgeon for help navigating your health insurance coverage.

Talk with your plastic surgeon to find out about your options for breast reconstruction surgery.

By Dr. Nina S. Naidu, M.D., F.A.C.S. | New York, NY