Breast reconstruction surgery often leaves scars, but they usually fade over time. Newer techniques also help in reducing the amount of scarring. When you’re wearing a bra, your breasts should look enough in size and shape to let you feel comfortable in all type of clothes.
Even post-mastectomy, breast reconstruction surgery can make you feel better and renew your self-confidence. But it is necessary to keep in mind that the reconstructed breast will not be a perfect match or substitute for your natural breast.
If tissue from your tummy, shoulder, or buttocks is used during breast reconstruction, those areas will also look a bit different post surgery. Talk to your surgeon about scars and changes in shape or contour
Undergoing breast reconstruction surgery during or after breast cancer surgery is popular among most women. It is also necessary to know that not all breast reconstructive surgery procedures are a total success, and the result might not meet your expectations.
The cancer surgery and breast reconstruction surgery will leave scars on your breast and any areas where tissue was moved to create the new breast mound, such as the buttocks, tummy, or shoulder areas.
A rebuilt breast will not feel the same as the natural breast.The sites tissue was taken from to rebuild the breast might also lose some sensation. Over time, the skin might become more sensitive, but it won’t feel the same as it did before the surgery.
Breast skin or flaps might not survive post breast reconstructive surgery. This tissue death is called necrosis. If it happens, healing is delayed and more surgery is often needed to fix the problem.
Healing could be affected by previous breast surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. It can also be affected by smoking, diabetes, some medicines, and other factors.
Most breast surgeons might suggest you wait before undergoing breast reconstruction, especially if you smoke or have other health problems. It’s best to quit smoking at least 2 months before breast reconstructive surgery to allow for better healing. You might not be able to undergo breast reconstruction surgery in case you are obese, too thin, or have blood circulation issues.
The breast surgeon might suggest a surgery to reshape your other breast to match the reconstructed breast. This breast lift surgery includes reducing or enlarging its size.
Certain types of breast reconstruction surgery need radiation treatments that can cause problems and lower the chances the rebuilt breast will look and feel as natural as possible after the radiation is given.
You should discuss the best options for you with your surgeon before surgery.Knowing your breast reconstruction options before surgery can help you have more realistic expectations for the outcomes.