Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction can help restore the look of the breast after a mastectomy. We are here to help you with your options.

Breast Reconstruction Overview

During a mastectomy, many women op to also undergo a breast reconstruction surgery. Breast reconstruction is a complex procedure performed by a plastic surgeon, also called a reconstructive surgeon. If you’re planning breast reconstruction at the same time as a mastectomy, you’ll meet with the plastic surgeon before the surgery.

Breast reconstruction may involve:

Conversations With Your Doctor

We may recommend a mastectomy instead of a lumpectomy(plus radiation) if:

  • You have two or more tumors in separate areas of the breast.
  • You have widespread or malignant-appearing calcium deposits (microcalcifications) throughout the breast
    that have been determined to be cancer after a breast biopsy.
  • You’ve previously had radiation treatment to the breast region and the breast cancer has recurred in the breast.
  • You’re pregnant and radiation creates an unacceptable risk to your unborn child.
  • You’ve had a lumpectomy, but cancer is still present at the edges (margin) of the operated area and there is concern about cancer extending to elsewhere in the breast.
  • You carry a gene mutation that gives you a high risk of developing a second cancer in your breast.
  • You have a large tumor relative to the overall size of your breast. You may not have enough healthy tissue left after a lumpectomy to achieve an acceptable cosmetic result.
  • You have a connective tissue disease, such as scleroderma or lupus, and may not tolerate the side effects of radiation to the skin.
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You might also consider a mastectomy if you don’t have breast cancer, but have a very high risk of developing the disease. A preventive (prophylactic) or risk-reducing mastectomy involves removing both of your breasts and significantly reduces your risk of developing breast cancer in the future.

A prophylactic mastectomy is reserved for those with a very high risk of breast cancer, which is determined by a strong family history of breast cancer or the presence of certain genetic mutations that increase the risk of breast cancer. Click here for more information regarding mastectomies.

Breast Center Educational Videos

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