Breast cancer is a life-changing diagnosis that often leaves women feeling lost, scared, and confused. Many feel that their lives are out of their control. They feel overloaded with information from their many doctors. Taking charge of your breast reconstruction decision may help you to feel some measure of control during a time when so much is out of your hands. Whether you decide to reconstruct your breasts now, later, or not at all, you need to meet with a breast reconstruction surgeon to learn about your options before your mastectomy. Call and schedule a consultation with Dr. Lewis today.
What Are the Benefits of Immediate Reconstruction?
Some women are able to reconstruct their breasts at the same time as their mastectomy. A cancer surgeon will remove the diseased tissue while testing to ensure they’ve been as aggressive as possible. A plastic surgeon will then take over, performing the initial steps toward reconstruction during the same operation. The reconstruction happens before you even leave the operating room.
Immediate reconstruction has many benefits, including:
- Spend Less Time Recovering– By performing two procedures at once, you can shorten your recovery time.
- Boost Self Esteem– Losing one or both breasts can be emotionally trying. By reconstructing immediately, some women experience less trauma post-surgery. They look more like they remember when they wake up from surgery, although more treatments will likely be needed to fully complete their reconstruction.
- Start the Reconstruction Process Earlier– Because most women will need a few different treatments to achieve the best possible reconstruction results, this helps move up the timetable. Immediate reconstruction allows us to start the process earlier.
What Are the Downsides to Immediate Reconstruction?
Immediate reconstruction isn’t the right choice for every patient. Some potential downsides include:
- Can Interfere with Some Treatment Plans- Some women won’t be candidates for immediate reconstruction due to future cancer treatments that are needed. Radiation can change the treated skin, making reconstruction more difficult. We’ll discuss your options with you if radiation is part of your treatment plan.
- Need to Coordinate Care- An immediate reconstruction requires intense coordination between the doctors on your care team. Your plastic surgeon and cancer surgeon will need to work closely together to plan your surgery.
Is Immediate Reconstruction Right for Me?
If you’re preparing for a mastectomy, call and schedule a consultation with Dr. Lewis. We know that this time is emotionally trying, busy, and difficult. We’ll explain your options and act as your guides throughout the reconstruction process. Dr. Lewis can help you determine if you’re a good candidate for immediate reconstruction. You do have options! Call today.