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Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction refers to a surgical procedure that recreates breasts following a mastectomy. There are various methods available for breast reconstruction, including the use of implants or the transfer of tissue from other parts of the body, such as the belly, to form a new breast. This reconstruction process can take place immediately after a mastectomy or at a later stage. It is important to note that multiple surgeries may be required over a period of several months.
What options are available for reconstruction?
Prior to making a decision, it is essential for you to have a discussion with your doctor regarding your desires and requirements, your current health condition, as well as any previous surgical procedures.
Implants
The procedure includes using a device called a tissue expander to stretch the skin internally, followed by the insertion of either a silicone-gel or saline implant after a few weeks. The tissue expander is gradually filled with saline over several sessions, typically once a week. While there may be some discomfort, overall, the end outcome is often satisfactory for many women.
Implants have the potential to rupture, leading to the occurrence of pain and infection. In such cases, surgical intervention might be necessary to either remove the implants or replace them.
Flap reconstruction
Flap reconstruction involves the use of tissue from your own body to create a breast. Typically, the surgeon harvests this tissue from the lower abdomen, although it can also be taken from other areas such as the thigh, back, or buttocks.
In order to create a new breast, your surgeon has the option to remove fat, skin, blood vessels, and muscle from different areas of your body. This collection of tissue is referred to as a flap by healthcare professionals. There are two methods that the surgeon can use: either they can move the flap through your body while maintaining its own blood supply (known as a pedicled flap), or they can detach the flap from its original blood supply and connect it to blood vessels in your chest (known as a free flap).
The aim of breast reconstruction
The objective of breast reconstruction is to achieve a breast appearance that appears realistic and closely resembles the size, shape, and position of the other breast.
To achieve the desired cosmetic outcome, multiple procedures may be necessary and performed over a period of time.
To start off, the initial step involves forming the shape of the breast. Additional procedures might be necessary to enhance the reconstructed breast’s aesthetic appeal. Alternatively, further operations may be required to improve symmetry in the other breast.
Despite achieving the best possible result, there will still be noticeable distinctions between the remaining natural breast and the reconstructed breast.
When reconstructing both breasts, the goal is to replicate breasts that are symmetrical and in harmony with your body’s proportions.
Who qualifies as a suitable candidate for breast reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction might be suitable for you in the following cases:
- You handle your diagnosis and treatment effectively.
- There are no extra medical conditions or illnesses that could hinder the healing process.
- Your mindset is optimistic and your objectives for rejuvenating your breast and body appearance are grounded in reality.
What steps should I take to get ready for breast reconstruction?
When getting ready for breast reconstruction surgery, you might be requested to:
- Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
- Take specific medications or make changes to the medications you are currently taking.
- Stop smoking
- Refrain from using aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements, as they have the potential to cause an increase in bleeding.
Breast reconstruction surgery is usually done in a hospital, and it might require a brief hospital stay. The surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, but some additional procedures may be done on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia and sedation.
The decisions made will depend on the specific needs of your procedure and taking into account your preferences and the professional opinion of your doctor.
What occurs during the surgical procedure for breast reconstruction?
In a hospital setting, a surgeon will carry out your breast reconstruction surgery. Anesthesia will be administered by your healthcare provider to ensure you are asleep throughout the procedure, resulting in a pain-free experience. If you are undergoing a mastectomy or lumpectomy, the surgeon will perform that specific procedure before proceeding with the reconstruction.
During your unconscious state, the surgeon conducts the breast reconstruction procedure. In the case of implant reconstruction, the surgeon inserts the implant into your chest. However, if you opt for a flap procedure, the surgeon removes tissue from another area of your body, shapes it, and then positions it as the new breast.
While undergoing surgery, a medical professional might place a slim tube, known as a drain, beneath your skin. The tube will extend out from your chest and serve the purpose of draining fluid and blood during your recovery. Once it is determined that you no longer require them, the tubes will be removed by your healthcare provider.
Recovering from the surgical procedure for breast reconstruction
In the initial days following the procedure, you might experience some discomfort. You will be provided with pain medication whenever necessary. During your time at the hospital, the medical staff will closely monitor your condition.
Shortly after the operation, you will be advised to begin moving your arms, although you should avoid any vigorous activities such as pulling yourself up, getting out of bed, or lifting heavy items. The nurses will assist you in getting in and out of bed. The day after the surgery, you might be able to sit in a chair next to the bed. By the second day, most patients are able to walk without any assistance.
It is likely that you will receive intravenous fluids for a couple of days. You might need a urinary catheter overnight or until you are able to walk to the bathroom. Additionally, you will have drains in the areas where the surgeon made incisions. If you are discharged with these drains still in place, you will be given guidance on how to properly take care of them.
The duration of your time in the hospital will vary depending on the specific surgery you undergo and the progress of your recovery. In the case of receiving implants, the typical stay in the hospital is between 1 and 2 days. However, flap procedures may necessitate a longer period of 5 to 6 days.
Treatment in Türkiye:
The medical staff of surgical teams, doctors, and consultants at REHABTÜRK can provide the best treatment options and free consultations, striving to stay up-to-date on the latest medical technologies and methods.
