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With October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, I thought it would be a good time to discuss a few myths about breast reconstruction.
Myth #1 Breast Reconstruction can only be performed after a mastectomy.
The truth is breast reconstruction can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy, also known as immediate breast reconstruction or any time after, known as delayed breast reconstruction. The appropriate time of the reconstruction depends on each patient’s specific situation. I will discuss all options, risks and benefits during our consultation.
Myth #2 Breast reconstruction can be completed with only one surgery.
Breast reconstruction, regardless of the type of procedure performed generally requires more than one surgery. The first stage is the initial step to begin the reconstruction process of either placement of the tissue expander or permanent implant placement or the DIEP autologous tissue transfer. The second stage is generally performed to achieve the patient’s desired results. This may include removal of excess skin, excess tissue, fat grafting or scar revision.
Myth #3 Reconstructed breast will look unnatural.
A state of the art procedure in breast reconstruction, known as the DIEP breast reconstruction actually uses the patient’s own living tissue to reconstruct the breast. This gives a more natural look and feel because the breast is created with their own tissue.
Please refer to the breast reconstruction page for additional information.