When can breast reconstruction be performed after breast cancer?
Breast reconstruction can be performed at two times after breast cancer removal surgery:
- Immediately (immediate breast reconstruction)
- Months-years later (delayed breast reconstruction).
The correct thing to do, according to plastic surgery specialists, is to perform it immediately, since it has been demonstrated that it does not compromise the rest of the treatments that a breast cancer may need, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Besides not altering the treatment of breast cancer, if it is performed immediately, it will have the psychological benefit for the woman as she will not be “amputated”.
Is it advisable and is there any risk involved?
I would dare to say that breast reconstruction after breast cancer should be mandatory rather than advisable. There are numerous studies that demonstrate the psychological benefit that is achieved with reconstruction.
Nowadays we know very well the importance of a good psychological state for the correct functioning of our immune system during the chemotherapy stage. Therefore, it is more than recommended. Indeed it is not a simple procedure, and may have some complications, but if done with the right specialist will be minimized to a minimum, and therefore it is more than safe to perform it.
What techniques are available for this procedure?
There are basically two techniques for breast reconstruction:
- The most widespread reconstruction is reconstruction with breast implants. Currently we have anatomical implants, that is, breast-shaped, so you can shape the breast as we need to achieve greater symmetry.
- With autologous or autologous tissue, which includes two techniques: vascular flaps or lipofilling.
Vascular flaps are mainly used when there is a skin defect, i.e. there is not enough skin, although they are also a very good option when the breast is discreetly flaccid or the implant is rejected. On the other hand, lipofilling is usually used more as a complement, it is complicated to remake a breast only with fat.
How long does the procedure take?
Everything depends on the technique used. A reconstruction with implants usually requires 2-3 hours and a reconstruction with a free flap 6-8 hours.
What follow-up should be done?
The follow-up is the same as in a woman operated on for breast cancer, that is, the same controls should be performed, this should not be altered by anything. Indeed the 2-3 weeks after the reconstruction your plastic surgeon should also monitor the correct evolution of your reconstruction.