Breast Reconstruction Information

Sep 18
14:36

2010

Andrea Avery

Andrea Avery

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The breast reconstruction procedure is a widely used operation for cancer survivors following a mastectomy. However, there are other reasons patients may seek out this type of plastic surgery. This article will discuss various reasons for this procedure, as well as how the process is performed.

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Breast reconstruction surgery is a widely used operation for cancer survivors following a mastectomy. However,Breast Reconstruction Information Articles there are other reasons patients may seek out this type of plastic surgery. This article will discuss various reasons for this procedure, as well as how the process is performed.

Mastectomy
Women who have undergone partial or total mastectomy can see themselves as whole again with the use of breast reconstruction. Implants are used to re-create the look of the former pre-cancer contour of the woman, though they aren’t always required to achieve the desired result in a partial mastectomy.

This procedure is sometimes performed during the same surgical session as the mastectomy, though patients who require more extensive repair may need multiple procedures done at different times. There are cases in which the patient needs to heal between steps taken to produce the desired effect. In any event, breast reconstruction for this reason touts a very high satisfaction rate among participants.

Trauma
Patients who have experienced trauma to the chest area as children will sometimes find irregular or disproportionate mammary growth as adults. Car accidents, severe burns or other damage to the area interferes with the internal mechanisms that stimulate development during puberty. For this reason, breast reconstruction is opted for to surgically create balance and symmetry.

Also, bodily trauma as adults has necessitated this type of technique to restore the former look of the chest area.

The Process
This procedure is performed by a plastic surgeon using general anesthesia. In the case of mastectomy, the surgeon begins by placing the chosen implants sub muscularly, or behind the chest muscle. Some patients require skin grafting procedures, or nipple creation. Temporary implants, called tissue expanders are sometimes used in extreme cases, making the process multi-stepped. However, it’s common for these patients to undergo this surgery in a similar fashion to regular augmentations. Also note that technological advances have produced more options and methods for achieving different results.

In regard to trauma cases, patients may require skin grafting or other forms of prosthesis or fat transplanting measures. Techniques are as various as the injuries themselves.

Breast reconstruction remains a viable treatment option for women who have experienced mild to severe changes to their chest areas. Restoring a woman’s balanced contour means restoring her self-esteem. Renewed confidence in one’s self often leads to the feeling of a new start, and a positive and refreshed outlook on life.