Having a mastectomy, whether due to breast cancer or other medical reasons, is a very emotional and sensitive experience for any woman. It is very normal to feel sad and regretful about losing a part of your body. But, did you know that with the advancement of modern medicine, it is possible to surgically recreate or reconstruct a breast that has been removed in this way? Today, let's talk about Breast Reconstruction, or breast reconstruction surgery.
Simply put, what is breast reconstruction?
Simply put, this is a surgery to reshape the breast after a mastectomy or a lumpectomy. Sometimes, multiple surgeries may be required.
This surgery can be done at the same time as the mastectomy ( immediate reconstruction ). Or, it can be done months or even years later ( delayed reconstruction ). Sometimes both breasts need to be reconstructed. Or, one breast may be reconstructed and made to match the other. This is a very personal decision. Some women choose to have this surgery, while others do not. That decision is entirely up to you.
What are the main methods of breast reconstruction?
There are two main methods. One is to take tissue from another part of your own body and create a breast. The other is to use an artificial implant.
1. Breast reconstruction using your own body tissue (Flap Reconstruction)
In this procedure, skin, fat, and sometimes muscle tissue are taken from another part of your body - for example, from the lower abdomen, thighs, back, or buttocks - and used to create a new breast. The tissue taken in this way is called a `flap`. There are different surgical techniques used for this.
| Type of flap surgery | Tissue collection site | Important points |
|---|---|---|
| DIEP flap | Lower abdomen | Only skin, fat, and blood vessels are removed. The abdominal muscles are not damaged. |
| TRAM flap | Lower abdomen | Here, skin, fat, blood vessels, and part of the stomach muscle are removed. |
| Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap | Outside area | A portion of tissue and muscle from the back is brought under the skin to the chest area to create a breast. |
| PAP/TUG flap | Inner thighs | The breast is created from tissue taken from the thighs. In the TUG flap, muscle is also taken. |
2. Breast augmentation using implants
In this method, surgeons use either saline or silicone implants to reshape the breast. Sometimes, a combination of your own tissue and implants can be used.
In this method, a device called a `Tissue Expander` can be placed under the skin after mastectomy. It is like a small balloon. Every week, the doctor fills it with saline solution. Then, the skin gradually stretches, creating space for the `implant` to be placed. Only then is the permanent `implant` placed.
How do I choose the method that suits me best?
Your doctor will decide which method is best for you after considering several factors.
- Your age, overall health, and lifestyle .
- What kind of mastectomy did you have and how much tissue was left after it?
- Whether you need further treatment for your cancer (e.g. chemotherapy, radiotherapy).
- Previous surgeries you have had. For example, if you have had abdominal surgery, it may be difficult to get a flap from your stomach.
- It's important to talk openly and clearly about your expectations and what you want your appearance to look like with your doctor.
What happens before, during and after the surgery?
Before surgery: Your surgeon will perform a complete examination of you, taking measurements and photographs of your breasts. You will need to inform them about any medications you are taking and your health condition. They may also ask you to stop taking certain medications before surgery.
During the surgery: This surgery is done in a hospital. You will be put to sleep under anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain. The surgeon will reconstruct your breast using the method you have chosen (flap or implant). After the surgery, a tube (drain) may be placed under the skin to drain any fluid and blood that may have accumulated inside. It will be removed in a few days.
After surgery: You will need to stay in the hospital for a few days, possibly a week. You will be given medication to control pain. You will be asked to wear a special bra (surgical bra) to reduce swelling and support your breasts. You will be given instructions on how to take care of yourself after you go home.
What are the risks and complications of this surgery?
As with any surgery, there are common risks, such as infection and bleeding. In addition, the following may occur:
- Blood clots : This risk is especially high after some flap surgeries.
- Changes in the shape or size of both breasts: One may feel firmer than the other.
- Scarring: Scars remain after every surgery. These fade over time.
- Fat Necrosis: If the blood supply to the tissue removed during flap surgery is insufficient, that tissue can die.
- Implant-related problems: The implant can become wrinkled, leak, or rupture.
- Pain or weakness at the donor site: You may feel pain or numbness in areas such as the abdomen, back, or thighs.
The newly reconstructed breast is often less sensitive to touch. Although the skin may regain some sensation over time, it will not be as soft as it was before.
When to seek immediate medical advice
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately or go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) .
- Signs of infection such as fever.
- Severe pain that does not subside even with medication.
- Bleeding or pus from surgical wounds.
- Change in skin color on the breast or around the wound.
Take-Home Message
- Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is an option that you can choose. The decision to have it or not depends entirely on your personal preferences.
- There are various methods for this, such as using your own body tissue or using artificial implants.
- Talk openly and honestly with your surgeon about the method that is best for you, its pros and cons, and be clear about your expectations.
- This surgery can be a great help in overcoming the psychological breakdown that occurs after mastectomy and rebuilding self-confidence.
- It takes some time to fully recover after surgery. It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න