BREAST RECONSTRUCTION AFTER MASTECTOMY

WHAT IS
BREAST RECONSTRUCTION AFTER MASTECTOMY

Mastectomy refers to the surgical procedure of removing the breast tissue, either partially or completely.

A few years ago, radical mastectomy was an integral part of the treatment process, which is not entirely true today. Such mutilating operations for a woman are becoming less common nowadays, as tumor excision from the breast (lumpectomy) or partial removal of the breast tissue combined with adjuvant therapies (Radiotherapy – Chemotherapy – Hormone Therapy) is often sufficient to lead to an excellent outcome of the disease.

However, certain types of breast cancer with aggressive behavior and multifocal localization, combined with the patient’s history and a series of other factors evaluated by the specialized Breast Surgeon, indicate modified radical mastectomy as the recommended and safest method of surgical treatment for the disease.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate should have a good general clinical picture and a positive psychological attitude. The desire for reconstruction may stem from the need for psychological empowerment and returning to the previous body image. Additionally, she should ideally have a stable weight, as weight changes can affect the outcome of the reconstruction. Finally, she should have completed chemotherapy treatments. If a woman needs chemotherapy, it is usually better to wait until the treatment is completed before reconstruction.

It should be noted that reconstruction can be performed either immediately (during the same surgical procedure as the mastectomy) or delayed (after months or even years). Each case is unique, and the decision for reconstruction should be made in collaboration with the doctor, taking into account the needs and desires of each woman.

THE DOCTOR ADVISES

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a process that concerns not only the restoration of the physical profile but also the emotional and mental well-being of the woman. At our clinic, we recognize the importance of complete restoration and offer specialized services aimed at enhancing the self-esteem, physical appearance, and mental health of women who have undergone mastectomy.
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is not just a medical procedure, but also a personal experience that requires special sensitivity and attention. At our clinic, we offer:

Specialized Knowledge and Experience: Our specialized team has years of experience in mastectomy reconstruction, with an approach focused on safety and aesthetics.
Modern Techniques and Methods: We use the latest technologies and innovative reconstruction methods, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Individual Approach: Every woman is unique. We ensure that the reconstruction is tailored to your needs and desires.
Comprehensive Support: We provide psychological support and counseling throughout the process, ensuring that you feel supported and understood at every step.

ΤΗΕ PROCEDURE

COUNSELING

THE SURGERY

RECOVERY

Doctor’s counseling regarding reconstruction after mastectomy is a critical process that concerns both the physical and mental health of the woman. The loss of breast due to mastectomy or trauma can profoundly affect femininity and self-image.
At Surgishape, we understand this sensitivity and offer breast reconstruction as an option to restore the shape, volume, and curve of the breast, providing the patient not only with physical restoration but also emotional relief. This process helps renew self-esteem and a sense of completeness, allowing women to move forward with confidence and strength in their lives after cancer. The doctor offers complete information and support so that the patient can make the decision that best meets her needs and preferences.

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy can be performed using three main methods: silicone implants, autologous tissue transplantation, and fat autotransplantation. The first method can be done in one or two phases, either with immediate implant placement under the pectoral muscle or with initial use of an expander, which is later replaced with a silicone implant. Reconstruction with autologous tissues involves transferring tissues from the abdomen or back, while fat autotransplantation uses fat from other areas of the body that is processed and injected into the breast area.

Reconstruction after mastectomy is not limited to rebuilding the breast volume but also includes restoring the nipple and areola area. This process is usually performed 3 to 5 months after the surgery, when the shape and position of the breast have stabilized. Nipple reconstruction can be done either using a small flap or with a graft from the existing nipple, while the areola is formed either with a graft from the inguinal area, where the skin is darker, or with the medical tattooing method.
The second method is more preferred because it doesn’t require recovery time and the result is more reliable. It’s crucial to have good vascularization of the mastectomy flaps, which requires a particularly atraumatic technique from the oncological surgeon to properly prepare the ground for reconstruction. Immediate reconstruction offers the woman a sense of her breast immediately after surgery.

ΠΡΙΝ
& ΜΕΤΑ

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FAQs

What is the total time for breast reconstruction?

The total reconstruction time depends on the chosen technique and the individual patient’s response. For example, reconstruction with implants may require less time compared to tissue transfer techniques (such as DIEP or TUG Flap), which may need several months for full recovery.

What are the techniques for breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction techniques include:

Implant reconstruction: Insertion of an implant (silicone or saline) under the muscle and skin.
Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM): Non-cellular matrices from donor skin to cover the implant.
DIEP Flap: Tissue transfer from the lower abdomen to create a new breast.
TUG Flap: Tissue transfer from the thigh for smaller breasts.
Fat grafting: Transfer of fat from other areas of the body.

What are the advantages of breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction improves appearance, self-esteem, and psychological well-being, while offering aesthetic completeness and reducing psychological distress.

Is the oncological safety of the result compromised in any way?

Modern breast reconstruction techniques are designed not to affect the patient’s oncological safety. However, collaboration between surgeons is crucial to ensure that reconstruction does not affect the monitoring and detection of potential cancer recurrences.