Breast Reconstruction
Description
The Surgical Procedure
What to Expect After Surgery
Resuming Physical Activities
Before/After Breast Reconstruction Photos
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast close in form and appearance to a natural breast. Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.
The Surgical Procedure
Breast reconstruction usually involves more than one operation. The first stage, whether done at the same time as the mastectomy or later, is usually performed in a hospital.
Follow-up procedures may also be done in the hospital or, depending on the extent of surgery required, your surgeon may prefer an outpatient facility.
While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days, if needed.
What to Expect After Surgery
You are likely to feel tired and sore for a week or two after reconstruction. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication prescribed by your doctor.
Depending on the extent of your surgery, you'll probably be released from the hospital in two to five days. Many reconstruction options require a surgical drain to remove excess fluids from surgical sites immediately following the operation, but these are removed within the first week or two after surgery. Most stitches are removed in a week to 10 days.
Resuming Physical Activities
It may take you up to six weeks to recover from a combined mastectomy and reconstruction or from a flap reconstruction alone. If implants are used without flaps and reconstruction is done apart from the mastectomy, your recovery time will be less.
You'll want to refrain from any overhead lifting, strenuous sports, and sexual activity for three to six weeks following reconstruction.
Before/After Plastic Surgery Photos
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