Key highlights
Breast reconstruction surgery is intended to help restore breast shape after mastectomy or lumpectomy. It’s natural to develop negative feelings about giving up what might be a significant part of your body or your identity. Breast reconstruction surgery can be very physically and emotionally rewarding for women who have lost breasts to cancer or other conditions.
Breast reconstruction is a process. It typically involves multiple procedures which are carried out in stages. Reconstruction could begin during or shortly following mastectomy.
The look and feel of the breast can be restored with various reconstruction methods. The two general types of breast reconstruction – implant-based and autologous – involve different procedures and results.
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
One of two main techniques for reconstruction involves inserting an implant filled with silicone or saline to rebuild and shape the breast mound. First the breast is expanded using breast expander. The expander is inflated to your desired size and shape. Then the breast expander is exchanged in a second surgery for the permanent implant. Of the types of implants, silicone is sometimes thought to look and feel more like natural breast tissue and is the preferred breast implant for reconstruction. Implant reconstruction is a simpler procedure and usually requires less recovery than autologous reconstruction.
Autologous (or “Flap”) Reconstruction
Autologous or “flap” reconstruction uses tissue transplanted from another body part and sometimes also requires an implant. This approach requires a more challenging surgical technique and a longer recovery, but if done well, flaps can last longer than implants.
The “DIEP Flap” is a common autologous flap. This flap is taken from the lower abdomen using the skin and the fat in this area to form the breast. During the “DIEP Flap” procedure, the muscle and abdominal wall are spared to prevent problems with hernias and bulges after surgery.
The “DIEP Flap” can provide soft, natural breasts that are long-lasting and require less maintenance compared to implants. This procedure also includes the benefit of improving the lower abdominal region, similar to a tummy tuck.
There are other autologous flaps available for breast reconstruction that can be taken from the back, buttocks, and thigh, as well.
Because no two bodies are alike, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider first to decide if surgery is right for you. Schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic to learn more about Houston plastic surgery options in breast reconstruction.
Typically, health insurance plans that cover mastectomy should also cover the cost of breast reconstruction surgery. It’s important to check if, and how much of, the cost could be covered by your insurance plan and to consider other payment methods to find the most affordable option for you.
Additional information is available from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and with a one-on-one consultation with a Kelsey-Seybold Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics specialist.
