Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction Before and after photos

Breast reconstruction is plastic surgery to reconstruct one or both breasts that have been lost due to cancer.

The current lifelong risk of breast cancer for women in the United States is one in eight. Despite advances in breast conservation therapies, mastectomy remains an important tool in fighting this disease. For many patients breast reconstruction is chosen to restore body image and allows the patient to feel “whole” again. Breast reconstruction is a process, requiring several operations to arrive at the final result. Preferably the patient consults with the plastic surgeon prior to her mastectomy so that these stages can be thoroughly discussed and so that she may have an understanding of what she can expect.

Timing of the Procedure

Breast reconstruction can be “immediate” or “delayed”. In other words, the reconstructive process can begin at the time of the mastectomy or at a later date after the mastectomy has completely healed. Studies would suggest that there is a psychological advantage to immediate breast reconstruction.  Immediate breast reconstruction spares the patient a separate operation for the first stage of reconstruction.  However, patients are not ideal candidates for immediate breast reconstruction if there is a high likelihood that they will require postoperative radiation or chemotherapy.

Breast Reconstruction Options

The technique of breast reconstruction can be generally divided into autologous breast reconstruction and implant breast reconstruction. Autologous reconstruction involves creation of a breast mound with the patients own tissues, generally from the abdomen (TRAM flap) or the back. Excess fatty tissue and skin are transferred to the chest to create a breast based upon the blood supply to abdomen or back. The primary advantages of autologous breast reconstruction are that the breast is reconstructed from the patients own tissue and it is often softer and can have a degree of  ”droop” to match the opposite breast. The trade-off is that these operations are longer, more technically demanding procedures with increased postoperative pain, a more difficult recovery period, and a higher complication rate.

For these reasons Dr. Yates and his patients prefer implant breast reconstruction in most cases when able. The first stage of this technique involves placement of a tissue expander which gradually stretches the skin creating a breast mound. The second stage involves removal of the expander and placement of a permanent breast implant. Oftentimes the patient would benefit from a procedure on the opposite breast for symmetry including; mastopexy, breast reduction or breast augmentation as indicated. In the third stage, a nipple is reconstructed which is later pigmented to match the opposite breast with tattoo.

Does insurance pay for breast reconstruction?

Yes. All insurance providers are required to pay for breast reconstruction including opposite breast surgery as necessary for symmetry.  Dr. Yates proudly provides plastic surgery and breast reconstruction service to the Salt Lake City Utah metro area.

What risks are associated with the procedure?

Dr Yates will thoroughly discuss the rare but potential risks at the time of your consultation.