Breast
reconstruction is a physically and emotionally rewarding
procedure for a woman who has lost a breast due to
cancer or other condition.
The creation
of a new breast can dramatically improve your
self-image, self-confidence and quality of life.
Although surgery can give you a relatively
natural-looking breast, a reconstructed breast will
never look or feel exactly the same as the breast that
was removed.
Is it
right for me?
Breast
reconstruction is a highly individualized procedure. You
should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s
desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.
Breast
reconstruction is a good option for you if:
- You are able to cope well with your diagnosis and
treatment
- You do not have additional medical conditions or
other illnesses that may impair healing
- You have a positive outlook and realistic goals
for restoring your breast and body image
Breast
reconstruction typically involves several procedures
performed in multiple stages. It can:
- Begin at the same time as mastectomy, or
- Be delayed until you heal from mastectomy and
recover from any additional cancer treatments
It's important that you feel ready for the emotional
adjustment involved in breast reconstruction. It may
take some time to accept the results of breast
reconstruction.