If you have to undergo a mastectomy, you already know you have a recovery ahead of you, and you have plenty of decisions to make before the surgery occurs. One of the biggest decisions you will make is what you want to do to your chest area after the mastectomy. Do you want to leave your breasts as they are or do you want to have reconstructive surgery?
Many women do not feel right with their breasts completely removed and opt to have reconstructive surgery. There are several different options in breast reconstructive surgery, but you also have to decide when you will have the reconstruction done.
Breast reconstruction can be done immediately after a mastectomy while you are still under the general anesthesia. It can also be done later. Some women prefer to have it done all at once, so they do not have to go through major surgery twice. Others want to wait so they can emotionally or medically prepare for another surgery. Either way, you need to be fully informed about everything involved so you can make the right decision for your situation.
With today’s modern technology on your side, you have several options when it comes to reconstructive surgery. Implants and tissue flap procedures are two such options. Implants involve stretching the skin that is left after the mastectomy and inserting silicone or saline implants. You can choose to have breasts that are the same size as before, or you can get something larger or smaller.
Tissue flap procedures involve using tissue from the back, abdomen or another area to create a breast mound during reconstruction. These procedures are more natural in many ways but require a plastic surgeon who is experienced with that type of procedure.
Think about how you want to look after the surgery and what you will see when you look in the mirror. Look at before and after photographs and make sure you understand what the results of any reconstructive surgery will be for you, so you know what to expect. You will want to take your time to make the right decision for your future.
As you think through the options, one great way to gather more information is to set up a consultation appointment with Plastic and Cosmetic Center of South Texas’s own Dr. Jeneby. Dr. Jeneby can answer any questions or concerns you might have about breast reconstruction surgery. If you are interested in this surgery, contact Plastic and Cosmetic Center of South Texas today to schedule a consultation.
