Breast Reconstruction Timing -
Overview and Safety
If mastectomy is performed then the only option will be total breast reconstruction. If part of the breast is removed but enough to cause significant cosmetic effects then partial breast reconstruction is used. This can involve either adding the lost volume back into the breast or by reshaping the breasts.
There are different ways to reconstruct a breast. If available to you, these differing options will be discussed at outpatients. One of the great difficulties you may find is being able to understand and make choices about reconstruction at a time of dealing with the diagnosis of cancer or pre-cancer in the breast. Although guidance as to the best option will always be offered the decision to have reconstruction will be yours.
The operation that combines the two is when the muscle and skin from the back are used to cover an implant.
All methods of total breast reconstruction give a breast with little or no sensation.
Safety
All of the above methods are safe including the use of silicone implants. Regardless of the type of reconstruction it will not change the type or effectiveness of your cancer treatment.
