Breast reconstruction following breast removal
Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.
But bear in mind, post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is not a simple procedure. There are often many options to consider as you and your plastic surgeon should explore what’s best for you.
Currently, Dr. Hein works with breast surgeons at Newton Wellesley Hospital and MetroWest Medical Center to provide immediate reconstruction at the time of mastectomy when indicated.
This information provided on this website will give you a basic understanding of the breast reconstruction procedure – when it’s appropriate, how it’s done, and what results you can expect. It can’t answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. During your consultation with Dr. Katherine Hein, ask your questions and concerns if there is anything you don’t understand about the procedure.
Who is a candidate for breast reconstruction?
Most mastectomy patients are medically appropriate for reconstruction, many at the same time that the breast is removed. The best candidates, however, are women whose cancer, as far as can be determined, seems to have been successfully removed by mastectomy.
Still, there are legitimate reasons to wait. Many women aren’t comfortable weighing all the options while they’re struggling to cope with a diagnosis of cancer. Others simply don’t want to have any more surgery than is absolutely necessary. Some patients may be advised by their surgeons to wait, particularly if the breast is being rebuilt in a more complicated procedure using flaps of skin and underlying tissue. Women with other health conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, or smoking may also be advised to wait.
In any case, being informed of your reconstruction options before surgery can help you prepare for a mastectomy with a more positive outlook for the future.
What are steps to plan for breast reconstruction surgery?
You can begin talking about reconstruction as soon as you’re diagnosed with cancer. Ideally, you’ll want your breast surgeon to work with Dr. Hein as a team to develop a strategy that will put you in the best possible condition for reconstruction.
After evaluating your health, Dr. Katherine Hein will explain which reconstructive options are most appropriate for your age, health, anatomy, tissues, and goals. Be sure to discuss your expectations frankly with Dr. Hein. She will be equally frank with you, describing your options and the risks and limitations of each. Post-mastectomy reconstruction can improve your appearance and renew your self-confidence – but keep in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection.
Your surgeon should also explain the anesthesia she will use, the hospital where the surgery will be performed, and the costs. In most cases, health insurance policies will cover most or all of the cost of post-mastectomy reconstruction. Check your policy to make sure you’re covered and to see if there are any limitations on what types of reconstruction are covered.
Where your surgery will be performed
Dr. Hein and her professional staff will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications.
While preparing for breast surgery, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days, if needed.
Breast reconstruction usually involves more than one operation. The first stage, whether done at the same time as the mastectomy or later on, is usually performed in a hospital. Follow-up procedures may also be done in the hospital. Or, depending on the extent of surgery required, some procedures can be done in the office.
Your new look
Chances are your reconstructed breast may feel firmer and look rounder or flatter than your natural breast. It may not have the same contour as your breast before mastectomy, nor will it exactly match your opposite breast. But these differences will be apparent only to you. For most mastectomy patients, breast reconstruction dramatically improves their appearance and quality of life following surgery.
Click here for more information about Breast Reconstruction.
Why you should select Accurate Aesthetics
Dr. Katherine Hein is among the top cosmetic surgeons in the Boston, Newton, Wellesley, and MetroWest area. Dr. Hein is certified by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and has specialized in breast and cosmetic surgery since 1999. She has performed thousands of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
When you select Accurate Aesthetics Plastic Surgery for your breast reduction procedure you can be reassured of a close personal relationship with Dr. Hein and her professional staff.
Additional Reasons to Select Accurate Aesthetics
- One-on-one consultation with Dr. Hein follow-up appointments after surgery, and availability by telephone for your questions.
- Availability of a fully certified operating room in-office for your comfort and privacy.
- The use of a board-certified MD anesthesiologist or certified nurse anesthetist on each case.
Results may vary and are not guaranteed. Consult with Dr. Hein to see if you are a good candidate.