Breast Reconstruction Basics

For most women, finding out that they have breast cancer comes as such a shock that reconstruction is not amongst the things that cross their minds. Your highest concern will, of course, be having the cancer removed. It has come to the attention of many people; however, that most patients don't know the options they have regarding breast reconstruction. It's important that you know and understand all of your options for breast reconstruction in Dallas.

One option is to have breast reconstruction after a lumpectomy. During this procedure, a surgeon removes all of the cancerous tissue from the breast. After having tissues removed, the breast might not look as normal and balanced at it used to. Many will choose to get implants to help restore the balance.

After having a mastectomy, where some or all of the breast is removed, approximately 75% of women choose to have a breast reconstruction to one or both of their breasts. Of these women about half of them choose to get breast implants. Another option is to have tissue taken from other parts of your body, usually your stomach, buttocks, or thigh, and a new breast is formed out of these tissues.

You will also have to make the choice as to when you are going to have the breast reconstruction done. Most women choose to have it done immediately after having breast cancer surgery. However if the tumor was in an advanced stage prior to surgery and a series of radiation treatments will be necessary after the surgery, you may have to delay your decision to get a breast reconstruction in Dallas.

Whether you choose to have your reconstruction procedure after the surgery or to delay it, both options have their ups and downs. If you postpone the reconstruction till later, you will have more time to decide which method is the best for you. It also gives you the opportunity to first focus on your treatment, especially if you're undergoing radiation, which can be quite stressful. You may not be able to deal with the added pressure brought upon by making decisions regarding how you're going have your breast reconstruction in Dallas.

However, by delaying the decision, you may find it harder and harder to deal with the emotions of not having a breast. It has almost become the standard that women are choosing to go with the immediate reconstruction option. This has the clear advantage that you will know that aesthetically you appear balanced like you did prior to the mastectomy. By choosing to have an immediate breast reconstruction in Dallas, you won't have to worry about further surgeries, unless of course you experience some sort of complication with the implant or new tissue.

No matter which option you choose in the end or your breast reconstruction in Dallas, it is important to talk it over with your doctor so all your questions will be answered. A reliable and professional breast cancer surgeon in Dallas will always be honest and open with you as you go through the process. Your surgeon should understand that this matter is of utmost importance to you and give you advice on which options will be better for you, and which ones are not.