It Is Now Possible To Start Breast Reconstruction At The Time Of The Mastectomy

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is an important facet in the treatment of breast cancer. It is extremely important, not only to remove the cancerous tissue, but reconstruct that tissue in a way to permit the patient to go on with her life and remove any "type" of deformities.

Breast reconstruction has advanced greatly over the years and it is now possible to start breast reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy. There are techniques for breast reconstruction in which to reconstuct a woman's breast. At the time of the mastectomy, or at a later date, a device called a tissue expander, which is basically an empty filler bag, can be surgically placed underneath the pectoralis major muscle in the chest. Over time, the tissue expander is inflated in the doctor's office. It then begins to resemble the patient's opposite breast. At a second operation the tissue expander, which is filled with saline, is removed and replaced with either a saline or a silicone gel implant to complete the reconstruction. At that time, the nipple can also be reconstructed and thereby the reconstructive process for the breast is completed. Sometimes it is necessary to either lift or even increase the size of the opposite breast to obtain symmetry.

Another plastic surgery procedure that can help women is breast lift surgery. Breast lift surgery, is designed to reshape the sagging breast. In addition to the loss in breast firmness, the nipple and areola (pigmented area around the nipple), are subject to stretching with loss of elasticity and descent of the breasts. The areola expansion is also addressed during the breast lift procedure.

If you have concerns about the changes occurring in your breasts as you age, you may be a candidate for a breast lift. This type of surgery can enhance your youthful appearance and improve your overall self confidence and self esteem. The best candidates for breast lift are healthy women who are realistic about what the surgery can afford after a complete consultation. Breast lift surgery can be performed for all breast sizes. The best results are usually achieved in patients with small to moderate sagging breasts. Results in larger breasts may not be as long lasting, due to the continued effects of gravity. Although planned future pregnancies are not a specific contraindication to having breast lift surgery, you may wish to consider postponing your surgery until childbearing is completed. Pregnancy, may stretch the breasts again after surgery offsetting the results of the procedure.

If your breasts have lost volume, breast lift is sometimes coupled with placement of an implant to restore breast volume. This operation, called augmentation mastopexy, is more complicated than breast lift alone and requires deft expertise and careful surgical planning. Our surgeons have a great deal of experience with all aspects of breast surgery, and comfortably possess the required expertise.