You
have discovered the distressing news that you have breast cancer. It's an
overwhelming and frightening diagnosis. Not only have you learned that there is
a deadly disease inside your body, but there your doctors have come to an
agreement about your breasts. In addition to treatment, you are going to need
to have your breasts removed. A mastectomy is going to change your body, the
way you look, and the way you feel about yourself. Many women feel like they
have been robbed of their femininity after their breasts have been removed.
They become self-conscious and have issues with body image. It can also place a
strain on their relationships with their partners. As challenging as this phase
in your life is, you need to focus on the positive. Remember that you are
taking charge of this illness in order to save your life. While it is true that
a mastectomy is going to take a part of your body away, your plastic surgeon
can create a new bust for you that will look natural and make you feel whole.
The process is a journey. It will begin with expanding the tissue where your
breasts were to prepare your body for implants.
How is the Tissue Expanded Prior to Implant
Surgery After a Mastectomy?
You
may not realize that breast implant surgery after a mastectomy is going to take
place in stages. The first stage is the tissue expansion stage. This is
necessary to make sure there is adequate room to position your implants. Your
plastic surgeon will need to create a pocket in your pectoral muscle in order
to insert a tissue expander. The expander will have a port that allows your
plastic surgeon to gradually add saline to the expander. For several weeks
after your tissue expander has been put in place, saline will be added to it in
a process that slowly expands your breast contours in a subtle way. When your
plastic surgeon determines that you are ready, you will be set for stage two of
your breast implant procedure.
Your Breast Implants Will be Inserted in
Stage Two
Once
your tissues have been adequately expanded, your plastic surgeon will be ready
to take out your expander to make room for your breast implants. You will be
able to discuss the type of implant that you want. Your options include
silicone and saline. The size of your implants will also be an important decision.
How well your tissue has healed after your surgery and the size of your chest
wall will play a role in what size implant is best for you. You may choose to
remain the size you were before your mastectomy or may prefer a modest increase
in size. In some cases, you may actually have to reduce your size because of
the condition of your breast tissue and the effects of your tissue expansion.
Your plastic surgeon will be your guide as you consider your options. Your
implants will be inserted, your incisions closed. If your nipples and areolas
could not be saved during your mastectomy, your surgeon can construct new
nipples by using tissue from your body. Once your breasts have healed, tattoo
ink can create the appearance of areolas, as well as the proper skin tone for
your nipples. When all is said and done, you can have breasts that look
authentic. Most importantly, they will feel like the real thing as well.
What Can You Expect for the Recovery
Process?
You
may have drains inserted into your breasts immediately following surgery in
order to eliminate any fluid that accumulates. You will be monitored in the
recovery room and should be able to go home on the same day of your procedure.
You will be provided with a surgical bra. This is going to help you to avoid
too much movement of your breasts. It will also reduce swelling and help to
minimize your pain. You can expect to take at least a week off from work after
your breast reconstruction surgery. You may need more time than that depending
on if your job is strenuous. If you are undergoing chemotherapy and radiation,
you may be taking a lengthy amount of time while you get your body on track.
You will need to pay close attention to your incisions and cleanse them
properly in order to reduce your risk of developing an infection. Be sure to
follow your surgeon's advice when it comes to any limits that have placed on
you concerning physical activity. You don't want to damage your incisions or
cause any type of injury. Once your body has adequately healed, you will be
able to fully appreciate your results. Your breast reconstruction can help you
to feel like yourself again.
Should You Have Your Breast Reconstruction
Surgery Immediately or Wait?
It
is a personal decision when it comes to timing for breast reconstruction
surgery. Some women want to begin the process immediately in order to restore
their breasts. Others feel it is best to wait. If you are going through
radiation and chemotherapy treatments, you may want to give your body time to
deal with the negative effects of cancer therapy. Whether you wait a year or
ask for reconstructive surgery right away, you can look forward to the time
when you feel like your body is complete again.
Turn to Doctors Plastic Surgery to Learn
More About Breast Reconstruction
The
surgeons at Doctors Plastic Surgery can help you make important decisions about
breast reconstruction. Feel complete and comfortable about your body once
again. The compassionate staff will guide you through the process to help you
reclaim your figure after cancer has had such a major impact on your life. The
skilled surgeons will give you peace of mind as you move forward on this
journey. Visit www.doctorsplasticsurgery.com to book a consultation appointment.
