Breast Reconstruction – Is this for you?
Breast Reconstruction is a procedure that is performed by a surgeon to help reshape the breast after a mastectomy. A mastectomy is a procedure to remove the breast when it is infected by cancer. A mastectomy is also performed in order to prevent breast cancer from developing.
There are two types of Breast Reconstruction;
Breast Reconstruction with implants and breast reconstruction with flap surgery. During a Breast Reconstruction with implants the silicone implants that are filled with either salt water or silicone will be implanted into the breast in order to give the breast a different shape. Dr. Pillai can perform this surgery and create a new look for you. In order for Breast Reconstruction to be complete you will need to have at least two but maybe more operations in order to completely create the look you want.
Risks
As with everything, there are certain risks that can develop during and after Breast Reconstruction. These risks include slow healing, an implant ruptures or becomes deflated after the surgery, or the implant begins to protrude through the skin. After the surgery you may need breast surgery in the future in order to replace or remove a breast implant, you may notice breast sensitivity changes, an infection may develop or bleeding. You may also notice scar tissue forming where the implants are. You may need additional surgery to correct any of these risks if they should occur.
Surgery
In order to prepare for your surgery, Dr. Pillai will begin by assessing your medical history, performing a physical examination and take before and after pictures for your medical records. Dr. Pillai may also give you specific instructions to help you prepare for your surgery ahead of time. You may be required to follow a strict diet guideline and stop certain medications.
You may choose to have Breast Reconstruction during the same surgery as your mastectomy or you may need to delay the Breast Reconstruction surgery and schedule it at a later date. Whether you choose immediate surgery or to delay it you will probably need more than one operation to reach your goals.
The implants are shaped either round or tear drop shaped. They are filled with saline solution or silicone gel. Dr. Pillai will place the breast implant directly behind the muscle located in your chest.
Sometimes it is necessary for tissue expanders to be put into place during Breast Reconstruction. This is a procedure that stretches the tissues that are located in the chest area in order to make the room needed for a breast implant. This doesn’t happen all at once, it takes several months to stretch the tissues.
For more information about Breast Reconstruction contact Dr. Pillai today.
