Breast reconstruction surgery is a more complex surgical process than breast augmentation, but it is one of the most rewarding breast enhancement surgeries performed. This is because most women get breast reconstruction after a mastectomy – they are not seeking bigger breasts or higher breasts or firmer breasts, they are simply looking to restore their basic feminine appearance after winning the fight against breast cancer. Though it may seem an easy choice given the satisfaction most women have with breast reconstruction surgery, the decision to undergo major surgery is never an easy one, particularly after battling cancer. With more information, you can be sure to make the best decision for you.

If you are considering breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, be sure to speak with your oncologist first to make sure that the mastectomy has removed all your cancer. Your oncologist should also be able to recommend some plastic surgeons who specialize in reconstruction. It could be that your doctor is able to perform the mastectomy and the reconstruction at the same time. Regardless, make sure that whoever you choose to perform your breast reconstruction is experienced with the procedure.

It is important to understand the goals and results of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. Women generally get breast reconstruction to make their breasts appear symmetrical under clothing, to regain breast contour, and to avoid having to wear an external prosthesis. You should realize that your reconstructed breast will not appear the same as your unreconstructed breast when you are nude, nor will it have the same sensation as a natural breast. Your reconstructed breast may not have the same contour as the other breast, and it may be severely scarred. Breast reconstruction will not make your breasts look or feel better, it will just give you another breast.

There are two types of breast reconstruction surgery: immediate reconstruction, which occurs at the same time as the mastectomy; and delayed reconstruction which is done at a later time. The breast can only be reconstructed immediately after a mastectomy if the mastectomy has removed all the cancer. If radiation treatment will follow the mastectomy, it is best to wait until treatment is complete.

Your breast can be reconstructed after the mastectomy with a flap of your own body tissue, with an implant, or with a combination of the two. Which type of reconstructive surgery is appropriate for you depends on many factors, including the amount of tissue available to create a breast flap, the size of your natural breast, and your insurance coverage for the procedure.

Recovery from breast reconstruction surgery is generally the same as breast augmentation and reduction surgeries, however, your ability to heal may be hindered by your cancer treatment. Still, recovery from breast reconstruction surgery is nothing compared to recovery from cancer, and given the ability to have a fully feminine form, most women are willing to work through the recovery.

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