Breast Reconstruction

Today, breast reconstruction is regarded as part of the overall, integral plan in breast cancer treatment. 

The aim is to create the shape of the new breast, matching the natural breast as closely as possible. This reconstructive surgery is either done at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or, weeks, months or even years later (delayed reconstruction).

The motivation to opt either for or against reconstruction is markedly individual and personal, as every woman's needs differ. What's vitally important is to be presented with a spectrum of choices. The Didyma Foundation advocates that every woman should be offered reconstruction at the time of mastectomy. 

What are the benefits?

For some women, reconstruction positively helps when coping with a breast cancer diagnosis.

Also, it means not having to wear an external artificial breast prosthesis, which can be considered unpractical and certainly not a choice for everyone.

When dressed, you can assume the same or similar appearance prior to surgery. Naturally, this issue is most pertinently noticeable with sportswear and swimwear.

Breast reconstruction can help towards restoring self-confidence and good self-esteem; a sense of femininity, attractiveness and sexuality. For many, it goes towards strengthening a vital sense of womanhood.

Does breast reconstruction affect other of my treatments?

It 's been shown by a number of studies that breast reconstruction doesn't interfere with any additional treatments. Furthermore, scans of the reconstructed breast are entirely possible and therefore, any recurrence of cancer can still be detected.

What are the limitations?

It's important to understand that any form of surgical breast reconstruction has its limitations. Realistic expectations are key when undertaking surgery of this kind. 

Whilst the aim is to achieve shape and volume as close as possible to the natural breast, a certain degree of asymmetry needs to be accepted.

In order to achieve the final shape, a number of surgical steps might be necessary - each one bearing a further risk of complications.

Overall, breast sensitivity becomes minimized by surgery and the patient will not be able to breast feed. Also, it's most likely that the reconstructed breast will ultimately have less of a droop that your natural breast, due to the use of implants. However, this is generally viewed as a plus point!