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WHAT IS BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape and appearance of a breast. You may consider breast reconstruction following a mastectomy or a lumpectomy.
The most common approach is implant-based reconstruction which uses a breast implant to rebuild breast shape.1
Breast reconstruction can either be performed in a one-step procedure, often referred to as direct-to-implant, where the implant is inserted at the time of your mastectomy. Or, more commonly, the reconstruction takes place in two steps.1
Two-Step Reconstruction
During the two-step reconstruction method, a temporary breast tissue expander is used to form a new breast pocket which will eventually hold the long-term breast implant.
STEP 1: EXPANSION
Sterile saline is injected through the expander port to slowly stretch the skin creating a pocket for the breast implant
STEP 2: IMPLANTATION
Once the pocket is formed (typically within 2-6 months following surgery) the tissue expander is removed and replaced with a long-term breast implant2
STEP 1: EXPANSION
Sterile saline is injected through the expander port to slowly stretch the skin creating a pocket for the breast implant
STEP 2: IMPLANTATION
Once the pocket is formed (typically within 2-6 months following surgery) the tissue expander is removed and replaced with a long-term breast implant2
Timing
Immediate vs. Delayed Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction can begin at the time of your mastectomy (Immediate) or it can be performed months or years later (Delayed). Timing will depend on your stage of cancer and treatment plan post mastectomy:3
Some Benefits of Immediate Reconstruction3
- One less surgery and potentially less costs
- Emotional benefit of beginning reconstruction at same time as your mastectomy
Some Benefits of Delayed Reconstruction3
- Allows for additional cancer therapies (such as chemo and radiation)
- More time to consider your reconstruction options
You’ll want to discuss the timing of your breast reconstruction surgery with your doctor. Together you’ll determine your best path forward.
Having breasts after battling breast cancer has helped me feel like myself: confident, happy and proud of where I have been.
– SARAI
Actual Sientra Reconstruction Patient
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