Options in Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a procedure that is used for recreating the breasts. Typically, this is performed after mastectomy. It is also used for the creation of breast form in those patients, who have congenital breast absence or abnormalities in the breast. Basically, breast reconstruction can be the reconstruction with implants, or reconstruction with autologous tissue. Each procedure has its own advantages as well as disadvantages. When it comes to autologous tissue for reconstruction, the main advantage is its long lasting and natural feel without problems or complications for a long term. Further, the necessity of secondary procedures is also very less after the completion of reconstruction.

DIEP Flap breast reconstruction
In the past, the only option that women had after breast cancer surgery was reconstruction using breast implants. Many women still rely on this method to restore the shape and aesthetic symmetry of their breasts. However, this technique is becoming less popular with the emergence of more advanced procedures such as DIEP flap breast reconstruction. This procedure is a surgical technique in which the patient’s own fat, muscle and skin are harvested and used for rebuilding and covering up the breast. Commonly, this technique is also known as autologous tissue reconstruction. The benefits of this procedure are:

• More natural feel and look
• No complications, as those related to implants
• Breasts behave like natural body parts and the size fluctuates depending on weight loss or weight gain.

Breast Reconstruction with Implants

Breast reconstruction surgery can also be done with implants. This can be done during mastectomy or later too. If reconstruction is being done during the time of mastectomy, a skin sparing mastectomy may be done by the surgeon. This means that only the area around the areola and nipple is removed. The surgeon will leave more skin for making the process of reconstruction easy. All patients are not candidates for this type of reconstruction. However, this procedure allows for a natural appearing reconstruction. There is no significant pain or discomfort for the patients, who can usually leave the hospital the next day. Apart from those who have undergone mastectomy, women with congenital defects of the breast and having sufficient soft tissue are candidates for this procedure.

Patients who do not have adequate skin or soft tissue coverage cannot be provided one stage reconstruction. In their case, the reconstruction is done as follows.
• First, a small tissue expander would be placed by the surgeon under the skin or chest muscle. The expander is a silicone bag filled with saline.
• Over time, this bag is filled with saline. This is to stretch the skin and soft tissue covering.
• Once sufficient stretching has occurred the expander is removed and a permanent breast implant inserted in its place.

Breast reconstruction options available are a boon to many women who have lost their natural breasts to cancer. These procedures allow women to regain their femininity and enjoy improved self-esteem and confidence.