It can be devastating for a woman to learn that she must lose her breasts in order to defeat breast cancer. Fortunately, with the advancements in modern technology and reconstructive surgery, there are ways to rebuild the breasts to make them look even better than they did before surgery. At the Breast Institute Austin, we have encountered many women who are deciding whether or not to undergo breast reconstruction in Austin after undergoing a mastectomy procedure. This is a big decision, and we want to make sure our patients are fully equipped with the details to make the most informed choices about their bodies.
To better understand whether breast reconstruction is a viable option following the mastectomy process, our friendly professionals have written a quick guide giving you all of the details. Not only are there several reconstruction procedures that can bring breasts back to life, but there are also several types of mastectomies that don’t have to remove all parts of the breast for a successful procedure.
Types of Mastectomies
There are types of mastectomies that can be part of the reconstructive process. One of the most popular is the skin and nipple sparing mastectomy, which essentially means that all of the breast is removed except for the tissue attached under the nipple. The nipple-areolar complex and surrounding skin will be spared, leaving you with your natural nipples. This is a great option if the cancer is not too large or too close to the nipples.
There is also the skin sparing mastectomy, which does not save the nipple but does save the skin around the breast. This is one of the best procedures to opt for alongside a breast reconstruction surgery. This is another viable option if the cancer is associated with the nipple and must be removed.
Types of Reconstruction Surgeries
The patient can choose to invest in a reconstruction surgery based on the immediate needs of the breast. For example, there are plenty of procedures that can create an entirely new breast using a variety of natural harvested fat and implant materials. This is a great option for those who have had to receive a full mastectomy due to breast cancer.
With a partial mastectomy or a lumpectomy, there is the oncoplastic surgery option, which involves much less reconstruction as the mastectomy can save most of the breast tissue. There are many options depending on the patient’s specific needs, and these needs are addressed when the patient visits for the mastectomy consultation. There is also the matter of when and how the surgery will be performed.
When the Surgery Will Be Performed
Patients can choose between a delayed or an immediate reconstruction surgery. This also depends on the needs and candidacy of the patient, as the doctor will want to ensure that she is receiving the best type of care possible. Some patients can choose to have an immediate reconstruction, which means that the breast is reconstruction during the mastectomy, at the same time it is removed.
Otherwise, the option of delayed reconstruction remains, meaning that the patient can choose to have a breast reconstruction procedure at another time.
How the Surgery Will Be Performed
There are two distinct methods of creating a reconstructed breast. The first uses implant-based reconstruction, which means that a lightweight, comfortable, and highly advanced silicone implant will be inserted under the tissue to create a natural-looking breast.
If the option to save most of the natural breast tissue is possible, then the patient may be able to have an autologous reconstruction, which means the surgeon will harvest the patient’s own fat from other parts of their body and insert it into the breast to make it round and full. There is also the option to have a combination of these two procedures.
Decide at Your Own Pace
When it comes to whether you want a breast reconstruction, there is no right or wrong answer. Our Breast Institute Austin staff members pride themselves on the advancements made towards creating beautiful breasts for those who have had to undergo mastectomies due to cancer. Whether you are seeking a partial or a full reconstruction, we have all of the necessary means to familiarize you with the process and get you feeling comfortable about your choice. Remember, you can always choose to have a delayed procedure as well.
Breast Reconstruction in Austin
No matter what your ultimate choice is, our staff is here to support you every step of the way. For more information on breast reconstruction in Austin, you can connect with us online or give us a call at (713) 714-3930 to speak with a friendly representative. We look forward to guiding you through the healing process!