Common Questions About Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction takes place after the removal of a breast due to cancer or other disease. Our surgeons can create a breast that will come close to the form and shape of natural breasts. In most cases this surgery can occur after a removal of the breast or at the same time the breast is removed. Reconstruction has no known effect on the recurrence of disease in the breast, nor does it in any way interfere with the process of radiation or chemotherapy treatment should cancer reoccur.

If you have just been diagnosed with breast cancer, your oncologist will call our cosmetic surgeon upon your request to set up an initial consultation. You will be able to see our surgeon within 48 hours. During your consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history and provide you with information regarding breast reconstruction. Videos by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery will be available for you to view. Your surgeon will discuss the types of breast implants used for your procedure.

Because different types of breast reconstruction are available, our surgeons will help you decide on the best procedure. One type of breast reconstruction uses a tissue expander, which is placed under the muscle and gradually filled over a few weeks or months. After the area has been stretched enough, the expander is removed and a more permanent implant inserted.

There are several types of implants. One type that is currently only available to breast reconstruction patients is the silicone breast implant. To learn more about silicone breast implants and their use following breast reconstruction, go to www.breastimplantsafety.org.

A flap reconstruction is an alternative approach to implant reconstruction. This surgery includes the creation of a skin flap removed from another area of your body, such as the abdomen, buttocks or back. The flap consists of skin, fat and muscle that forms the breast mound itself, without the need for an implant.

Depending on your type of breast reconstruction surgery, you will probably be released from the hospital within two to five days. A surgical drain may be placed into the surgical area to remove excess blood and fluid. In most cases, the surgical drain will be removed in a week or two. Most sutures are removed in a week to 10 days. Your surgeon will advise when you are able to return to normal activities.

After your breast reconstruction surgery is complete, your reconstructed breast will feel firmer and look rounder than your natural breast. Breast reconstruction may not have the same shape before mastectomy or match the other breast. These differences will be noticed only by you.

Click here to schedule a consultation with one of our breast reconstruction surgeons. The Centre, P.C. offers the latest cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures, including breast reconstruction, to patients in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, the Michiana area, and Chicago.

 

Elkhart Office

RiverPointe Medical Building
500 Arcade Ave., Suite 300
Elkhart, IN 46514
FAX: 574-293-1511

Chesterton Office

Duneland Health & Wellness Institute
810 Michael Drive, Suite K
Chesterton, IN 46304
Fax: 219.926.3534

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