Have you recently been diagnosed as having breast cancer? If your doctor recommends that you undergo a radical mastectomy, then you may want to consider having breast reconstruction surgery afterwards. However, this surgery is not for every woman because of a number of factors that will be presented in this article.
There is really no reason to rush into breast reconstruction after having a mastectomy because you can have the reconstruction done at a later time. You will be using a plastic surgeon if you opt for this operation.
Reconstruction surgery doesn't just involve one method -- but there are several methods of choice for you that are available. If you choose breast reconstruction, you may want to have an implant inserted in your breast that consists of saline or silicone material. You need to be aware of the fact that silicone implants have been known to leak.
Fat and muscles from other parts of your body can also be used for your breast reconstruction surgery. This will be harvested from your back or lower abdomen or your buttocks. Your plastic surgeon will collect this fat and muscle tissue to make a breast-shaped implant to insert where your breast was removed. Your doctor may create a flap in order to create a new breast. He will need to stretch your skin so that the implant will be permanently placed under your gradually stretched skin. After surgery has been performed and your body has healed, the finishing touches are done by tattooing the skin over the implant to simulate a natural breast.
However, as in every other kind of surgery there are dangers involved. Here are some factors to consider before you decide to have breast reconstruction performed.
1. The rebuilt breast will never feel normal again.
2. Like every other surgery, infection is a very real possibility.
3. You may or may not be satisfied with the final results of your breast reconstruction surgery.
4. There are going to be scars no matter what.
5. The donor site on your body may be adversely affected and the changes will probably be permanent.
6. You may require more than one surgery.
7. Because your body may suffer lasting negative effects from choosing to have breast reconstruction surgery, you may wind up regretting having had it done.
However, you may be very pleased with the results and breast reconstruction could be a great benefit in helping you to feel more normal for the rest of your life.
You and your doctor have to decide if breast reconstruction surgery is worthwhile in your case and if you are likely to be pleased with the final permanent results.
Learn how to take care of yourself or ease the suffering of a loved one after breast cancer surgery. Patricia Wagner writes about a variety of health tips to help you be healthier. | |
