What to Consider Before Deciding on a Breast Reconstruction?

Medical Conditions for Breast Reconstruction

The surgical procedure performed to restore breasts is referred to as breast reconstruction.

Annually more than 200,000 American women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer survival today presents several new choices.

Generally, women who have suffered from breast cancer, a mastectomy or had a breast removed for one medical reason or another -- are perfect candidates for a breast reconstruction.

Breast Reconstruction Expectations

Since breast reconstruction is designed to rebuild the shape, size and authentic characteristics of a woman’s breasts, most features are customizable. From the color, the size and the shape of the nipple, a licensed plastic surgeon can tailor breast reconstructions to meet the discerning requests of their patients.

Women who have endured a mastectomy may be the best breast reconstruction candidates; however, they select breast reconstruction for various reasons:

• Enhances symmetry and balance in the appearance of the breast
• Creates a permanent breast contouring
• Alleviates the need for an external prosthesis

Reconstructed Breast Difference

For most clothed women, breast reconstruction is completely unnoticeable; however, it may differ from the original/breast when nude.

Breast Reconstruction Considerations

The decision to undergo reconstructive surgery is a personal one. It necessitates numerous considerations contingent upon various personal factors such as:

• Stage of the breast cancer
• Overall health and strength
• Cup-size of the natural breast
• The capacity of the available tissue
• Type of procedure
• Insurance coverage
• Relevance to the patient to match the opposite breast
• Other financial, personal and professional responsibilities
• Scheduling of the reconstructive surgery (immediate or delayed)

Consider the choice of breast reconstructive surgery with a confidential consultation with Dr. Scheinman.