Post Mastectomy Breast Reconstruction
Receiving the diagnosis of breast cancer can be a very emotional experience. Being told that a mastectomy is part of the treatment regimen either through the patient's choice or the recommendation of the cancer surgeon may add further to the burden of choices. Dr. Lucas feels strongly that every effort should be made to provide early education and counseling regarding treatment options if a mastectomy is being contemplated.
Fortunately, there are several options for patients with regard to breast reconstruction. If possible, immediate reconstruction can be initiated if the circumstances are appropriate. Even women who choose initially not to undergo breast reconstruction or wish to defer until the cancer treatment was completed, are similar candidates for most procedures.
Creating a breast or breasts that feel and look natural is our goal. The emotional benefit of feeling whole again is an important component in the recovery from breast cancer. One choice, if appropriate, is the use of the body's own material of fat and skin from another region of the body with an associated blood supply. This can be in the form of part of the abdomen such as the TRAM flap, or the back muscle (latissimus muscle with or without skin). These are larger operations but have a very natural look and feel. In cases requiring the harvesting of the back muscle, Dr. Lucas can utilize an endoscopic approach to minimize incision and thus scarring on the back.
Another option for women who are not candidates for autologous reconstruction is through the use of implants. In most instances, there is a deficiency in skin and muscle coverage of the implants which requires a technique of tissue expansion to stretch the skin and muscle to accommodate an appropriate breast implant. Many times, if a unilateral reconstruction is necessary, the opposite breast needs modification to match the reconstructed side. Most of this work can be performed as outpatient surgery. Dr. Lucas is a co-investigator in the FDA approved Silicone Gel Implant study. Therefore, he is able to offer his patients the option for silicone gel implants which are a superior product for women seeking implant reconstruction of a mastectomy site.
Listen to podcast.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
Dr. Lucas is available to provide you with expert advice and personalized answers to all of your questions. Contact us online or give us a call at (865) 218-6210 to schedule a free personalized consultation.
More information from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons: