The right time for breast reconstruction is up to you

breast reconstruction houston txIf you’ve received a breast cancer diagnosis, you know there are many decision to make and a lot of information to process. For many women and their families, they are also deciding whether or not to have breast reconstruction and when.

Following a mastectomy, lumpectomy or other trauma, breast reconstruction can restore one or both of your breasts to as normal as possible, including:

  • Shape
  • Size
  • Symmetry
  • Appearance

Breast reconstruction actually often involves several procedures

The procedure is usually performed in stages, and the first stage can begin at the same time as the mastectomy. Many surgeons and patients prefer to begin the reconstruction process during the mastectomy.

The two main methods for breast reconstruction

When choosing the best option for you, we will take into consideration the type of mastectomy and treatments, as well as your body type. Reconstruction surgery typically uses on of these methods:  

  • A breast implant is used to help form your new breast mound
  • A flap of your own tissue from another part of your body is used to form a new breast

And even if only one of your breasts has been affected, you may want to have surgery on the other breast to achieve the best symmetry possible.

When to have reconstruction is your decision

It’s not always possible to begin the reconstruction process immediately, but most experts agree that ideally it should begin at the same time as the mastectomy if possible. That’s because you don’t have to go through surgical anesthesia, pain and recovery as many times. In addition, cosmetic results with less scarring can be a more likely outcome.

Know your options

While it’s true that reconstructive surgery can take place any time, make sure you know the choices you have. Some women wait only because they weren’t aware that they had the option of beginning the procedure immediately. But according to a study published in the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, beginning the reconstruction process immediately doesn’t delay treatment or affect outcomes. Get the information you need to make the right decision for you. Call for an appointment today: 713.271.9000.

Posted in: Breast Reconstruction

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