Breast and Nipple Reconstructive Surgery changes lives by helping patients feel whole again after losing a breast. At Quttainah Specialized Hospital, we use the newest methods in breast and nipple reconstruction.
The surgery involves several steps, such as expanding tissue and placing implants.
Key Takeaways
- Breast reconstruction surgery can restore the size, shape, and appearance of the breasts after a mastectomy or lumpectomy.
- The breast reconstruction process often involves multiple stages, including tissue expansion and implant placement.
- Nipple and areola reconstruction is typically the final phase of the breast reconstruction journey.
Understanding Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Breast and Nipple Reconstructive Surgery can significantly improve a person’s confidence and self-esteem after a mastectomy. It often uses tissue expansion and breast implants. This method is more comfortable and allows for a quicker recovery than other procedures.
Tissue Expansion and Implant Placement
The first step is putting a tissue expander under the breast wall. Over 3-4 months, the expander is filled with saline, stretching the skin and tissue to the right size and shape.
After the skin is stretched, the second step is adding breast implants. This finalizes the breast’s look and feel.
About 70% of breast reconstructions use implants, either saline or silicone. Some people can get implants right away, even if they need radiation therapy later. However, radiation can cause problems in about 30% of breasts that are rebuilt.
Some patients prefer to have breast reconstruction later, months, or even years after the mastectomy. Around 20-25% of women choose this option for personal reasons. Women with inflammatory breast cancer might find immediate reconstruction harder.
Breast reconstruction is a process that takes several visits over 2-3 months. It prepares the skin for the implant. Issues like implant rupture, unevenness, and infection can happen, and more surgeries might be needed. Having realistic expectations is critical, as the new breast won’t look exactly like the old one.
Breast & Nipple Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction surgery is a detailed process. It aims to bring back the shape, look, and confidence of breast cancer survivors. This surgery uses the latest techniques to make the breast mound, and, often, the nipple seems natural again. Let’s look at the steps in this journey.
The first step often starts with tissue expansion. This means putting an expander under the chest muscle. It gets filled with saline over time to stretch the skin and make room for a permanent implant. After the desired size is reached, the expander is swapped with a silicone or saline implant.
For those wanting a more natural look, breast reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue is an option. This method, called autologous reconstruction, uses fat and skin from the abdomen or upper hip to make the breast mound. This way, implants are not needed.
The last step is nipple reconstruction. This can be done with skin flaps, grafts, or three-dimensional nipple tattooing.
FAQs
What is breast reconstruction surgery?
Breast reconstruction surgery helps restore one or both breasts after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It aims to make the breasts look and feel normal again. Thanks to new techniques, patients can regain their natural look and feel.
How is breast reconstruction surgery typically performed?
The surgery uses tissue expansion and implant placement. This method is more comfortable and quicker to recover from than other methods. First, a tissue expander is placed under the breast skin.
Then, it’s slowly filled with saline over 3 – 4 months. Once the skin stretches enough, implants are added to give the breasts their shape and size.
What additional procedures may be involved in breast reconstruction?
In the final stage, patients might choose to enhance their breasts with nipple and areola reconstruction. There are many ways to make the nipples and areolas look natural, like micro pigmentation or surgery.
What can patients expect during the breast reconstruction process?
The surgery is done in stages, often with general anesthesia for specific steps like making a flap or placing implants.
After the last step, patients wear a medical bra and take medication to manage swelling, bleeding, and pain.
What are the benefits of breast reconstruction surgery?
This surgery is highly valued by patients. It helps lessen the emotional and physical effects of a mastectomy. It also boosts self-confidence and helps patients feel whole again.
