Mastectomy & Reconstruction: Overview
Mastectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove all breast tissue on one side, including your tumor. Mastectomies may or may not remove the nipple. Some women opt for a “prophylactic mastectomy” on the opposite side—this procedure, which removes the healthy non-cancer breast, is performed after a discussion between you and your breast surgical oncologist. Read further to learn about Mastectomy & Reconstruction.
When Can I Undergo Reconstruction Of A Mastectomy Defect?
Plastic surgeons can perform reconstruction of a mastectomy defect at three timepoints:
- Immediate breast reconstruction occurs on the same day as mastectomy.
- Immediate-delayed breast reconstruction occurs ~7 days after mastectomy, once pathology returns.
- Delayed breast reconstruction occurs after the chest has previously been closed flat, and can occur months, years, or decades after mastectomy.
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I’d give Dr. Oliva and the staff at Plastic Surgery NW 10 stars if I could. Dr. Oliva did an amazing job on a complicated reconstruction after double mastectomy. He was great at explanations, thinking of ways to improve the results and overall I couldn’t be happier! I’d recommend him to anyone!
How Many Procedures Will I Need To Undergo?
Breast reconstruction typically requires multiple different surgeries, encompassing 3-4 procedures over approximately one year. The stages consist of:
- Building the breast mound to restore the volume of a breast on your chest using breast implants or your own tissue
- Revising the reconstructed breast for improved contour and procedures to improve symmetry between your breasts
- Building the papule of the nipple
- Tattooing the areola
Sequence of breast reconstruction. a) Pre-operative photo
b) after creation of breast mound using belly tissue
c) after first revision
d) after creation of nipple
e) final result after tattooing of areola
