What is breast reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a process done by a plastic surgeon. Most of the time it is usually not finished in just 1 surgery. Most people have 2 - 4 surgeries, and sometimes more. The process can take 6 months to 1 year to complete. This process can be done at the time of mastectomy or later.
Breast reconstruction has little or no effect on:
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The chance of breast cancer coming back in the future
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Finding breast cancer in the future
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Bringing back feeling in your breast
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Bringing back the ability to breastfeed
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See before and after photos of people who’ve had breast reconstruction
These medical images show nudity (bare breasts) and surgical scars or changes to the body after surgery. These images are for education and may help people understand what to expect before or after surgery. Some people may find these images upsetting or uncomfortable. You can choose to skip these images if you prefer.
Breast reconstruction is your choice
Choosing to have breast reconstruction depends on your goals, beliefs, and what matters to you. You do not need it for breast cancer treatment. However, breast reconstruction can help some people feel better about their bodies after breast cancer surgery.
You may want to think about:
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Should I have breast reconstruction at all?
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If I choose breast reconstruction, what type should I have?
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Should I have it at the same time I have my breast removed, or months or years later?
Pros and cons of breast reconstruction
Pros
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It might help you feel more comfortable with your body and "feel like yourself" again after your breast is removed.
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You regain breast shape without having to wear a breast form (prosthesis).
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Your breasts might look more balanced when wearing a bra, swimsuit, or clothes.
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Some people choose to have reconstruction so they are not always reminded about their cancer.
Cons
A reconstructed breast is not a perfect match for a natural breast:
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It will have scars
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It might not look the same as your other breast
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You may not have a nipple, or it may not look natural.
Breast reconstruction often involves a longer surgery than mastectomy only, and more than 1 surgery.
After each surgery, there is a chance of side effects:
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Infection
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Pain
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Poor wound healing
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Loss of blood to the tissue
It may take longer to return to physically demanding work and home activities.
Are there other options besides breast reconstruction?
Yes, there are other options to help you feel more comfortable with your body and in your clothes after your breast is removed.
You can use breast forms, which are breast-shaped pieces of silicone or other material. Breast forms come in many shapes and sizes. Most are worn inside a bra that has special pockets you place the forms into. Some can attach to your skin using magnets or a patch.
You can be fitted for breast forms about 4-6 weeks after a mastectomy. Most insurance plans cover the cost of breast forms.
Breast forms can help your clothes fit better and keep your bra in place by matching both sides of your chest under clothing. The prosthesis may require a special bra or be glued to your skin.
You can get breast reshaping surgery (sometimes called oncoplastic surgery), which can sometimes be done at the same time as a lumpectomy.
You could also “go flat.” This means accepting that your chest is flat and not trying to make it look like you still have a breast shape. Some people wear scarves or patterned clothing that makes it less visible that their chest is flat.