When receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, there are a variety of methods for treating the cancer; however, the most effective treatment is a mastectomy. For many women, this treatment causes great apprehension and sadness, considering the body they know and appreciate is going to be forever changed. For this reason, many women choose to pursue breast reconstruction surgery, a procedure designed to restore the breasts to their natural size, shape, and overall appearance after a mastectomy. 

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Stephanie Teotia understands the decision to undergo breast reconstruction is deeply personal and offers her expert advice on whether patients should or should not undergo this procedure after their mastectomy.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

There are several physical and mental benefits to receiving breast reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy.

1. Restore Proportion and Balance: After undergoing a lumpectomy or mastectomy, many women feel uncomfortable with the lack of symmetry and balance in their figure. Breast reconstructions can restore balance and proportions by restoring the breasts to their original appearance before breast cancer.

2. Boost Confidence and Self-Esteem: For many women, undergoing a lumpectomy or mastectomy significantly impacts their confidence and self-esteem, considering their bodies have experienced considerable changes. Breast reconstruction aims to return the affected breast(s) to their natural appearance, resulting in restored self-esteem and confidence for the patient.

3. Enhanced Body Image: Breast reconstruction can contribute to an enhanced body image. The loss of one or both breasts can impact how a woman perceives their femininity and overall attractiveness. By restoring the body’s contours, patients feel more comfortable in their bodies.

4. Moving Forward: After undergoing the challenges of cancer and treatments, many find their recovery journey leaning toward reclaiming what was lost. Breast reconstruction allows patients to move past both the mental and physical scars left behind by a cancer diagnosis.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

The vast majority of breast cancer survivors are good candidates for breast reconstructive surgery. Every patient is different, and approaches to their individualized reconstruction will vary; however, nearly every breast cancer survivor who is interested in breast reconstruction is a candidate. There are a few requirements that Dr. Teotia will consider when determining if you are a good candidate for surgery:

• You must be in full remission and healed from your lumpectomy or mastectomy
• You should be a non-smoker; that includes all nicotine or tobacco-based products
• You should be physically and mentally healthy
• You should stop drinking alcohol for at least six weeks before your procedure date

What Are the Different Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures?

Dr. Teotia offers many specialized techniques for breast reconstruction surgery. The type of reconstruction surgery best for you will primarily depend on your specific circumstances.

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction Options

A natural tissue flap reconstruction uses skin and excess fat from a secondary location on the body (stomach, buttocks, thighs, back, or hips) to reconstruct the breasts. This approach restores a balanced, natural look and feel to the breasts without the use of any artificial implants.

Implant-Based Reconstruction

The implant-based reconstructions use either saline or silicone breast implants to recreate the breast mounds. This is beneficial for patients who do not have enough excess fat or tissue in a secondary location to recreate the breasts naturally.

How Do You Prepare for Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Full recovery from a breast reconstruction takes one to two weeks. During this time, you should avoid any strenuous activities and refrain from significant movements. Results can be visible almost immediately.

Reminders for your recovery:

• Rest is the most important thing you can do after your procedure. Prepare a clean, comfortable area for yourself with plenty of lounging activities like books, movies, puzzles, and television shows.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home from your procedure. You will also require help with your normal daily tasks for the first few days.
• Pick up all prescription medications before the day of your surgery. Don’t wait until after or the day of your surgery; you’ll want them on hand.
• Have easy-to-prepare meals that you or your caretaker can easily warm up.
• Clean your bed sheets and take a thorough shower the night before your surgery.

What Can You Expect During the Recovery Process?

Most breast reconstruction patients are able to return home the same day as their surgery unless they require a more extensive procedure. If Dr. Teotia deems it safe for you to be released, you will need a close friend or family member to drive you.

It is normal to expect some bruising, swelling, and discord, especially during the first 1 to 3 days. If a flap reconstruction using tissue from a donor site was used, you may feel some discomfort in the secondary location as well. You will notice an immediate improvement in the appearance of your breasts; however, results will continue to develop and improve over the next six months.

Can Breast Reconstruction Be Done Years After Mastectomy?

Some patients aren’t informed of their choice to have immediate reconstructive surgery. Other patients may not be good candidates immediately after their mastectomy. Therefore, surgery can be scheduled until years after their lumpectomy or mastectomy. The good news is, as long as you have a clean bill of health and healthy tissue, breast reconstructive surgery can be done 2 years or 20 years after a lumpectomy or mastectomy.

How Do I Choose the Right Surgeon for Breast Reconstruction?

Due to the delicate nature surrounding breast reconstruction surgery, it is essential to choose not only a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon but someone with experience, compassion, and an artistic eye for body contouring. Dr. Stephanie Teotia is renowned in the greater Dallas area for her excellent results and patient-first approach. It is her joy as a plastic surgeon to use her prestigious education and exceptional knowledge to help you put your cancer diagnosis behind you by restoring your feminine figure.

Schedule Your Dallas Reconstruction Consultation Today!

Dr. Teotia and her all-female staff invite you to schedule your breast reconstruction consultation today by calling (214) 823-9652 or completing our online contact form here. We look forward to meeting you soon!