WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?
The reconstruction decision is a highly individualized one. Should I reconstruct or not? What reconstruction options are best for me? Throughout the reconstruction process, we’ll provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and compassion you need to make an informed decision. Numerous studies have found that reconstruction can boost self-esteem and sexuality after breast cancer. Our goal is simple—to ensure that when you’ve completed your cancer journey, you’ve not only beaten cancer, but you feel complete.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS FOR BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?
There are many options available for breast reconstruction. A consultation is one of the best ways to learn about your options. We can meet with you before or after your mastectomy to discuss your reconstruction options. Some patients can receive reconstruction at the same time as removal, reducing the number of surgeries and minimizing the feeling of loss post-surgery. Other patients will need to wait before scheduling their reconstruction. If you’re facing breast cancer or have already experienced breast loss due to cancer, contact us to schedule a consultation.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss several reconstruction options and make treatment recommendations. We’ll briefly explain a few of the most common reconstruction options below:
- DIEP Flap– The DIEP flap, or Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator flap, method can repair your breasts using your own tissue. This is one of the preferred methods of reconstruction here at HPCS. It uses tissues and skin from the abdomen to reconstruct the breasts. It may not be a good option for patients with a previous tummy tuck or those who are very thin. An added benefit of the DIEP is a flatter, tighter abdomen post-surgery. No muscle is removed for an easier recovery.
- PAP Flap– The Profunda Artery Perforator flap reconstruction, or PAP flap, uses fat located on the back of the thigh. This is an excellent option for patients with insufficient abdominal tissue for a DIEP flap procedure.
- GAP Flap– The Gluteal Artery Perforator flap, or GAP flap, is another option for patients with limited abdominal tissue. It uses tissue and fat from the buttocks to reconstruct the breasts. Even thin patients have plenty of tissue in this area. No muscle is removed for an easier recovery.
- SIEA Flap
- DUG Flap
- Breast Implants– Some patients opt to go direct to implants. This reconstruction is performed similarly to breast augmentation—placing an implant into the breast—often at the time of the mastectomy. We often use Acellular Matrix in reconstruction patients. This is an artificial material that helps hold the implant in place and smooths the gap at the bottom of the breast.
- Tissue Expanders– Tissue expanders are sometimes placed to create room for an implant. This is often a temporary treatment, used until sufficient space is available and then replaced with an implant.
BREAST CANCER IS DIFFICULT; LET US HELP
For many patients, breast cancer is the most difficult experience they’ve ever faced. We understand that you may be struggling with emotions and feeling overwhelmed. We want to lead and guide you through the reconstruction process, allowing you to make decisions about the best breast options for your situation. Schedule your consultation with us and learn more. We’re compassionate, understanding, and ready to help.