Delayed Breast Reconstruction

WHAT IS DELAYED RECONSTRUCTION

Delayed breast reconstruction is any breast reconstruction procedure that happens after a woman’s mastectomy and recovery. Women may choose to have breast reconstruction after their mastectomy for a variety of reasons. As a result, the procedure they will have when they are ready for breast reconstruction will differ from an immediate breast reconstruction procedure.

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STEPS IN TWO-STAGE DELAYED BREAST
RECONSTRUCTION

Since the breast skin will have contracted and lost its original shape, a breast reconstruction procedure must first encourage new skin growth and shape the skin so that a breast implant, if desired, may be inserted. The steps in a two-stage breast reconstruction include:

  • Insertion of a tissue expander.
  • The gradual addition of saline to the tissue expander to stretch the skin.
  • Replacement of the tissue expander with a breast implant after a pocket has been created.

The tissue expander may need to remain in place for several months until a pocket is formed that will produce the best result.

ADVANTAGES OF DELAYED BREAST
RECONSTRUCTION

Women may choose to delay their breast reconstruction for many reasons.

  • A delayed breast reconstruction procedure MAY relieve some of their immediate burden.
  • Delaying breast reconstruction also allows your surgeon to focus on treatments.
  • Additionally, women will have more time to consider their breast reconstruction options fully if they have only their mastectomy first.
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DELAYED BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
SURGERY DRAW BACKS

  • Delayed breast reconstruction will result in an additional hospital visit later.
  • Scarring from the mastectomy may complicate later breast reconstruction.
  • The lack of a breast mound may distress some women after their mastectomy.

IS DELAYED BREAST RECONSTRUCTION THE
RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU

A delayed breast reconstruction surgery is the right choice for some women. Women may want to consider this approach seriously if:

  • The idea of second surgery is not a concern.
  • They want to focus on their cancer treatment.
  • They can temporarily accept the results of their mastectomy.
  • They want to research their breast reconstruction options fully.
  • They accept that a second surgery may have additional complications.
  • They have adequate resources for a second surgery and recovery.
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FIND A SURGEON

Make The Right Choice For You