Learn about breast reconstruction in this article. Find out what breast implant options are available and what the different choices can mean.
Over 180,000 women in the country are diagnosed with breast cancer. You're not alone. Breast reconstruction is designed to rebuild a woman's breasts after a mastectomy. Women who have had this procedure done have reported an increase in a sense of sexuality,
femininity, self-confidence, and emotional well-being. Most people who have had this procedure done are glad they did.
During the procedure, a surgeon forms a breast mound using a breast implant. The operation may involve additional steps such as adding a nipple and operating on the opposite breast for a better match. Breast reconstruction sometimes requires multiple operations.
In recent years, the field of plastic surgery has made great strides to create a breast shape that looks and feels like natural breasts. Breast implants are made from a silicone shell that is filled with either saline or silicone gel. Silicone gel-filled breast implants have a thicker shell and a more cohesive silicone gel and they feel like natural breast tissue. Both saline and silicone gel-filled breast implants have low rupture and deflation rates.
Breast implants are available in a variety of volumes and widths. The volume and size that's right for you will depend on your existing breast tissue and body type.
Two shell options are available, smooth or textured. Textured breast implants are firmer than smooth implants. Smooth implants are softer and more natural-looking.
Breast implants are available in a round or teardrop-shaped shell. Your plastic surgeon can help you choose breast implants that suit your needs.
The FDA has approved both silicone-gel and saline-filled implants after determining that each are effective and safe options for women undergoing breast augmentation or breast reconstructive surgeries. It is also worth noting that silicone gel-filled implants have evolved over the last 2 decades. They have an enhanced safety profile, thanks to numerous refinements in manufacturing and product design. Ultimately, you will have to decide which breast implant option will provide the look you desire.
If you're considering breast reconstruction, a cosmetic surgeon can provide you with the information you need. When you meet with a cosmetic surgeon, make sure you ask plenty of questions. Ask questions about the procedure. Find out what risks are involved and how long the procedure will take. Check to see how much experience the surgeon has and how much the operation will cost you. Check your doctor's before-and-after pictures. Find out what your scars will look like, how long you will be in the hospital, etc.
You may be sore for a few weeks after your operation. Your surgeon will give you medication to control your discomfort. You'll also have sutures in place after your operation. They will probably be absorbable, though, so they won't need to be removed. Scarring is permanent, but it will fade over time. Getting back to your routine activities may take several weeks. Take it easy after your operation and don't engage in any strenuous activities. Generally, you'll follow up with your cosmetic surgeon at least once a year to monitor your reconstructed breast. Schedule an appointment sooner than that if you have any concerns about your reconstruction.
Exploring your options will help you make the right decisions for your life and body after cancer. Research has shown that the more informed women are about breast reconstruction, the better off they will be. By finding out what options are available, you will reduce your fears and strengthen your decision.
