A Breast Reconstruction

usually after mastectomy, due to breast cancer, less frequently after severe breast infection or breast trauma, a breast reconstruction will be needed

The goal is to restore the breast to a more normal appearance. Breast reconstruction can be unilateral or bilateral.

Immediate breast

Immediate Breast Reconstruction:

Most of the time the plastic surgeon coordinate with the general surgeon , an immediate breast reconstruction, in the same surgery immediately after the mastectomy. This will benefit the patient at the psychological level. She will maintain her sense of femininity.

Delayed breast

Delayed Breast Reconstruction:

will be done months or years following a mastectomy.

Techniques of Breast Reconstruction:

Implant  Breast Reconstruction:

If there is sufficient breast parenchyma thickness remaining following the mastectomy. A breast implant is inserted.

Tisssue expanders/ implant breast

Tissue Expander/Implant Breast Reconstruction:

When the remaining  skin flaps after mastectomy are not enough to accomodate the implant a tissue expander is inserted. The patient will undergo weekly saline infiltration in the expander over 4 to 6 weeks to stretch the breast skin. A second procedure will be needed to remove the expander and insert the breast implant. Some implants can be expanded through an internal saline lumen . The expander tube and port will be removed and the implant expander left in place.

Flap Breast Reconstruction:

Latissimus Dorsi Muscle Flap Reconstruction:

The latissimus dorsi muscle flap, can be harvested from your back and rotated in your breast after mastectomy to cover a silicone implant.

The latissimus dorsi can be harvested as a musculo cutaneous flap .

Rectus Abdominis Muscle Flap Reconstruction:

The rectus abdominis can also be used as a transverse rectus abdominis musculo-cutaneous flap or as a muscle flap.

Depending on your anatomy, your medical and smoking history. Dr Paul Audi will advise you, what technique will be adequate for your condition.

Depending on your anatomy your health and smoking history, your plastic surgeon will discuss with you the pros and cons of every procedure:

BREAST RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY