Breast Reconstruction
For many women, breast cancer treatment may require a mastectomy or lumpectomy to remove cancerous breast tissue. Breast reconstruction surgery is designed to restore a woman’s breast after such a difficult experience, which can ultimately have a positive effect on her overall confidence and self-esteem. Board-certified plastic surgeon Jeffrey Copeland, MD understands how breast reconstruction can profoundly impact a patient’s body image, mental well-being, and emotional recovery. He is experienced at performing advanced breast reconstruction surgery and strives to make the whole process, including the consultation, procedure, and recovery, as comfortable as possible for his patients.
- What Is Breast Reconstruction?
- Breast Reconstruction Candidates
- Breast Reconstruction Process
- Breast Reconstruction Recovery
- Breast Reconstruction Before-and-After Photos
What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction surgery aims to rebuild and restore the breast. This treatment is often considered by women who are planning to have a mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer, as well as by those who have already undergone those procedures. Breast reconstruction can help restore the appearance of the breast(s) with the placement of breast implants or techniques that involve the use of tissue from other areas of the patient’s body. The ultimate goal is to help recreate the breasts with results that look as natural as possible and improve one’s overall sense of well-being and body image post-cancer treatment.
Post-mastectomy breast reconstruction can involve the consideration of multiple issues, often in a short time frame, due to the importance of treating the underlying breast cancer in a timely manner. In some cases, reconstruction may be done immediately after the removal of breast tissue, or may occur in two or more stages. Breast reconstruction may also be accomplished with some delay following the initial treatment.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?
A good candidate for breast reconstruction typically includes individuals who have undergone (or are planning to undergo) a mastectomy or lumpectomy or are at high risk of developing breast cancer and are considering those treatments. Ideal candidates are generally those who do not smoke, have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery, and are not experiencing certain health conditions that may increase the risks of a major surgical procedure such as breast reconstruction. It is important for the patient to be emotionally ready for this procedure and to have completed any necessary cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, which might affect the timing or type of reconstruction.
Not every woman who comes in for discussion of breast reconstruction actually has breast cancer. In some situations, patients may have a very high risk of developing cancer based on family history and genetic studies (BRCA). Sometimes mastectomy is an appropriate procedure for those women who will more than likely develop breast cancer if they do not have removal of the breast tissue. During the initial consultation, Dr. Copeland will perform an evaluation and determine your candidacy for breast reconstruction. If you are an ideal candidate, our plastic surgeon can explore the options with you, answer any questions you may have, and begin the process of developing a customized treatment plan if you decide to move forward with the procedure.
What Can I Expect During the Breast Reconstruction Process?
The decisions about which approach to take and in what time frame are very personal. There is no specific set of rules that’s exactly right for every individual. During the process of making those decisions, it is important to have a plastic surgeon with experience in the available procedures who will give you reliable advice about your best options. Dr. Copeland has performed breast reconstruction procedures throughout his career and appreciates the importance of restoring the breasts with results that successfully meet his patients’ needs.
The medical and surgical oncology specialists are very important in the planning of the best possible treatment plans for women with breast cancer. Dr. Copeland is always ready to discuss the issues which those experts bring to the patient’s care. We never lose sight of the fact that the proper treatment of the underlying disease takes top priority.
Today, available techniques range from minor volume restoration following lumpectomy to use of tissue expanders and breast implants, or to using one’s own tissue in the form of flap reconstructions, such as TRAM or latissimus flaps. Sometimes, combinations of procedures may be used as well. In order to give optimal balance and contour, the opposite breast may need to have a procedure performed, as well. Occasionally, the size of the breast is increased from its pre-disease state.
The most important part of the whole process is to listen carefully to the patient’s concerns and to help her make the best plans to suit those issues. Dr. Copeland always wishes to fulfill this goal and to do so in a way that takes the whole person into consideration.
What Is Recovery from Breast Reconstruction Like?
Recovery from breast reconstruction can vary depending on the type of surgery (i.e. implant-based reconstruction, autologous tissue-based reconstruction, or other techniques), but the process generally involves several weeks of healing. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and some initial discomfort during recovery. Residual pain can be managed with prescribed medication. Restrictions on physical activities as the treatment areas heal, especially lifting and strenuous exercises, are necessary to ensure proper healing. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor progress and to identify and manage any potential complications that may arise. Emotional recovery is also an integral part of the process, as adjusting to body changes can be challenging. Support from healthcare providers, counseling, and patient support groups can be beneficial during this period.
Breast Reconstruction Before-and-After Photos
Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Copeland or to receive more information about breast reconstruction surgery.
