Breast reconstruction is a surgery aimed at restoring a woman’s breast to the standard shape and size after lumpectomy (removal of part of the breast) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). This can be done using implants (prosthetics) or using your tissue. If the nipple and areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple) are also excised, they can also be reconstructed after completion of the breast mound reconstruction.
Why Choose Breast Reconstruction?
You might have breast reconstruction for several reasons:
• To permanently regain the shape of your breast
• To make your chest look balanced when wearing a swimsuit or bra
• To be happy with your body and how you feel about yourself
• So you won’t have to use an external prosthesis
After a mastectomy, breast reconstruction surgery can renew your self-confidence and help you feel better about how you look. But remember that the reconstructed breast will not be a perfect substitute or match for your natural breast.
Ideal Candidates for Breast Reconstruction
If you are expecting a mastectomy, or you already had a mastectomy, you may be a suitable candidate for breast reconstruction. Age is not a limiting factor for breast reconstruction. If you are healthy enough to undergo surgery, most likely, you are a suitable candidate for breast reconstruction.
