Breast reconstruction may help restore the look and feel of the breast after a mastectomy or trauma. The rebuilding of the breast(s) can be done either immediately following a mastectomy or as a delayed procedure. Immediate versus delayed breast reconstruction depends on some of the following factors:
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Physical exam by a breast reconstruction plastic surgeon
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Surgical risk factors (such as smoking and being overweight)
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Treatments needed after the mastectomy surgery
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Other conditions that may impair wound healing
It’s important to discuss your options with your plastic surgeon and oncologist.
Why Reconstruct the Breasts?
Reconstruction of the breast(s) is a physically and emotionally rewarding procedure for women who have lost one or both breasts due to cancer or other conditions. The creation of a new breast can dramatically improve a survivor’s self-image, confidence and overall quality of life. Realistic expectations of your breast reconstruction are important to keep in mind. Although the surgery will result in a relatively natural- looking breast, a reconstructed breast will never look nor feel exactly the same as an unoperated breast.
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