Breast Reconstruction is nothing new for the women who have undergone a mastectomy, or a breast removal. It is one of the most used treatment options on breast cancer patients. Some breast cancer patients get a breast removed, whereas some others get both breasts removed depending on the risk factor, seriousness and genetic issues.
Reconstruction refers to the rebuilding of one or both breasts of a woman. Even though a breast reconstruction cannot fully replace a lost breast, it could at least make sure that the breast cancer survivor has a breast, which is vital for women, since it is an important body part that defines a woman. These reconstructions could take place at two instances; the first, where a woman could choose to get it done at the time of the mastectomy, known as Immediate Reconstruction, and the second being known as Delayed Reconstruction, where the breast cancer survivor chooses to get it done at a later date.
There are 2 common types of breast reconstruction methods. One is by using Synthetic breast implants and the other is by using the patient’s own tissue(s), known as Flap Reconstruction.
1. Synthetic Implants
The synthetic implant could be either saline or silicone filled. This is an implant where a bag of saline or silicone is inserted or put underneath the muscle of the chest wall, in order to create a new breast. If the implant is too large to be inserted under the skin, a temporary expander will be used. In such a case, the expander will be injecting small amounts of saline from time to time so as to slowly stretch the skin and muscles to the size of the implant. Once it grows to the size of the implant, the actual implant will be placed in.
2. Flap Reconstruction
This is where tissue from other parts of the patient’s body, such as the abdomen, buttocks, back or thigh will be used. During this procedure, the donor tissue would sometimes be connected to the original site to retain its blood supply, or else be removed completely and connected to a new blood supply. This is supposed to be painful, but is said to provide a more natural look. There are 3 types of flap reconstruction; the TRAM flap, the LAT flap and the Free flap.
TRAM flap
This is where they use the abdominal muscles to form the breast. During this procedure, the blood vessels will be kept intact.
LAT flap
This is where the muscle from the upper back (latissimus dorsi muscle) is used to form the breast. In this too, the muscle will be attached to its blood supply under the armpit.
Free Flap
This is where the tissue will be detached completely from the donor site along with its blood supply to the breast area (recipient site). This is believed to be the most technical of the three methods.
As part of the reconstruction process comes the recreation of the nipples and areolas. Pieces of skin will be removed from another part of the body and be shaped into a nipple. Once it is healed, an areola will be tattooed around the recreated nipple.
A woman could choose to reconstruct her breasts or otherwise, but it all depends on whether she wants to get it done, as well as the risk involved. So when making the breast reconstruction decision, think well, think twice! |
