Breast Reconstruction Frequently Asked Questions

Breast reconstruction can help women who have went through cancer, women who have had children, and women who have different size breasts. It is important to remember that breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure, make sure to speak with your doctor, ask him or her a lot of questions and get all the facts about breast reconstruction and specifics about your case.

What Is Breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is the process of rebuilding of the breasts, when the breast tissues have been removed, doctors can go in and fills those tissues from other tissues on the body or can put in implants to make the breasts look real.

Will Breast Reconstruction Hide Cancer?

No, by having the breast reconstruction surgery it will not hide cancer and if the cancer does come back the doctors will be able to find it in the new breasts.

Does Breast Reconstruction Cause Cancer?

From the studies that researchers have done breast reconstruction does not cause cancer.

Does Reconstructed Breast Get In The Way Of Chemotherapy Or Radiation?

No, if cancer does come back having reconstructed breasts do not get in the way of chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

If the patient already has cancer and decides to get the breast reconstructed surgery, the new breasts will not get in the way of any further treatment.

But, it is always important to speak with your surgeon about having breast reconstruction if you are diagnosed with cancer.

Can Breast Reconstruction Be Performed On Both Breasts?

Yes, patients can have breast reconstruction on both breasts. A lot of patients only get one breast reconstructed due to a mastectomy.

How Do I Know I Found The Right Breast Reconstruction Surgeon?

It is important to find the right doctor for you. When you find a doctor you think you want to use, call them and ask several questions such as:

• Since when do you perform breast reconstruction?
• How many times have they performed breast reconstruction procedures?
• After asking the doctor basic questions and like what they answered then make a consultation.

How Long Is The Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

The entire breast reconstruction surgery is between 2 to 10 hours depending upon if you're having one breast done, or both breasts done and which technique the breast reconstruction surgeon uses.

How Much Does Breast Reconstruction Cost?

The cost depends on the breast reconstruction techniques that are you used, and if the patient is only getting one breast reconstructed. If the breast reconstruction surgeon is only doing one breast, then the doctor will have to make the other breast symmetric so both breasts look even. This can cost more money.

Some insurance companies will pay for the breast reconstruction if you had a mastectomy or if you're having this surgery for health reasons. To know more about insurance cover for breast reconstruction contact an agent from your health insurance provider.

Do You Have To Stay In The Hospital After The Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Primary procedures are inpatient procedures, so the patient will have to stay in the hospital for two to five days after their breast reconstruction surgery. Secondary breast reconstruction procedures are outpatient.

Is The Breast Reconstruction A One Time Procedure?

No, there are two parts of the breast reconstruction surgery.

The first part of the breast reconstruction is when the doctor puts the implants in or the tissue flaps in the chest area.

The patients come back again for another part of the breast reconstruction procedure and at that part the doctor will work on the nipples and areola area.

However, if the second part of the breast reconstruction procedure is only for those that has had a mastectomy. For others that are coming for reshaping the breast this will be a onetime procedure.

What Anesthesia Is Used For The Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

For the primary breast reconstruction procedure the doctors will use general anesthesia.

For the secondary breast reconstruction procedure the doctors use local anesthesia with sedation.

What Is The Recovery Time After The Breast Reconstruction?

The recovery time after the breast reconstruction is two to six weeks. Please keep in mind that the recovery time varies from patient to patient and it depends on a number of factors such as the extent of the breast reconstruction procedure, the breast reconstruction technique used, the breast reconstruction surgeon's ability and your medical history. During consultation you can ask your breast reconstruction surgeon how long he or she expects that the recovery takes after breast reconstruction for your individual case.

How Many Times Is The Treatment Frequency For The Breast Reconstruction ?

More than one breast reconstruction treatment may be necessary to achieve the final results. During breast reconstruction consultation your surgeon will inform you in detail about the number of breast reconstruction treatments that you will need.

How Long Do The Results Of The Breast Reconstruction Last?

The results of the breast reconstruction are permanent. But, time, aging, weight loss or gain among other factors may take a toll on the breasts.

Breast Reconstruction : Is This Right For You?

By having breast reconstruction women change their appearance for the better. Breast reconstruction will give women fuller and reshaped breasts.

The loss of a breast due to cancer or any other condition can be a devastating experience for a woman. Breast reconstruction can give back the confidence that you need to feel a woman again. If you are experiencing low self-esteem, depression, or you feel ashamed or embarrassed from losing a breast, then breast reconstruction is right for you.

If you are ready to get breast reconstruction then the first step is to find a breast reconstruction surgeon near you. Once you have selected the right surgeon for you, you will need to schedule a breast reconstruction consultation. During your consultation you can ask your doctor if you are a good candidate for breast reconstruction as well as what to expect from this procedure.

If you are interested in getting the breast reconstruction please use our breast reconstruction surgeon locator to find a surgeon near you!