Breast Cancer Reconstruction
Overview
Breast cancer is one of the most devastating diagnoses a woman can receive. It can have a significant impact on her mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
But there is hope. After breast cancer surgery, there are many options for restoring a woman's breasts. Dr. Cho understands that every woman's cancer biology, anatomy, and desires and priorities are different. She will listen to your story and guide you every step of the way, helping you choose the best breast cancer reconstruction treatment for you.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
Implant Based Reconstruction
This involves the use of an implant to replace the breast tissue that was removed. Implants are made of silicone gel or saline, and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some patients are candidates for direct to implant (DTI) reconstruction, while others would benefit from tissue expander (TE) reconstruction. Tissue expanders are temporary implants that are filled with liquid or air over a period of time to make space for a permanent breast implant.
Autologous Reconstruction
This involves the use of tissue from another part of the body, such as the abdomen or back, to rebuild the breast. This is sometimes also referred to as tissue flap reconstruction. Free flaps are those that are transferred from a distant part of the body to the chest wall to recreate the breast. Pedicled flaps are those that are rotated to the chest wall to recreate the breast from a nearby part of the body.
Benefits
- Restoration of a patient’s body image and self-esteem
- Improving symmetry
- Restore form and function
Consultation
- During your breast reconstruction consultation, Dr. Cho will review your health history (including medical conditions, surgical history, current medications, allergies, and smoking history) and evaluate your overall health to determine what risk factors you may have
- Discuss your goals and expectations, and your desired size (smaller, same, or larger)
- Discuss reconstructive options, including immediate versus delayed options and implant versus autologous options
- She will review one stage (direct to implant) or whether you need staged reconstruction with a temporary tissue expander
- She will also discuss whether preserving your native nipple and areolar complex is an option
- Take measurements of your breast to order a range of implants that would fit your chest the best
- Obtain photographs
- Discuss risks, benefits, and alternatives of all your options
- Discuss potential complications
Pre-Op Preparation
- You may require medical evaluation and/or labs based on your medical history and overall health before proceeding with surgery
- You should refrain from smoking prior to surgery
- You should stop any medications that can increase your bleeding risk
- These instructions will be discussed with you in detail
Post-Op Care
- You will be provided with detailed post-operative instructions after your surgery
- You will have bandages over your incisions that will stay in place until you are seen at your first post-operative clinic visit
- You may have temporary drains to evacuate any fluid that accumulates
- You will be taught how to care for these and record the output
Cost
- The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) of 1998 is a federal law requiring group health plans to also provide coverage for breast reconstructive surgery when mastectomies are covered
- All future surgeries that may be needed such as revision and supplemental surgeries are also covered under this law
Breast Reconstruction FAQs
Dr. Cho will assess your health comprehensively to determine if you have other health conditions or medical problems which may impair healing or cause increased risk for complications. Your goals and expectations will be discussed in detail to determine the best reconstructive option.
Some of the risks include but are not limited to: bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, scarring, impaired sensation, cosmetic deformity, capsular contracture, implant rupture, partial or complete loss of tissue flap, need for additional surgery.
Patient Review
Dr. Cho took the fear of a double mastectomy out of my head. She was fantastic from start to finish. I just went to my oncologist yesterday and she said that my reconstruction is one of the best she has ever seen. I love the ladies in the office it’s clean, cozy, and... See full review
Jenna A. / Breast Reconstruction Patient
Surgery is a Big Decision
We are here to answer any questions you have and help you determine the right choice for you. If you are considering surgery, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Cho today. She would be honored to discuss your goals and help you achieve the look you desire.