Breast Reconstruction

About Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgery to rebuild the shape and look of the breast after a
mastectomy (removal of the breast due to cancer or other conditions). It helps women feel whole again and regain confidence in their bodies.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Timing:

Primary (Immediate) Reconstruction

Done at the same time as mastectomy.
Breast is reconstructed during the same operation.
Advantage: Fewer surgeries, better cosmetic result, emotional comfort.

Secondary (Delayed) Reconstruction

Done months or years after mastectomy.
May be needed if radiation or other treatments are planned first.
Allows time for healing and decision-making.

Types of Breast Reconstruction Timing:

DIEP Flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap)

Uses your own skin and fat from the lower belly (like a tummy tuck).
No muscle is taken – so abdominal strength is preserved.
Natural-looking and feeling breast.
Needs microsurgery – available at advanced centers.

Best for: Women who want a natural breast using their own tissue and have extra
belly fat.

LD Flap (Latissimus Dorsi Flap)

Uses muscle and skin from the upper back.
May be combined with a small implant.
Good option when DIEP is not feasible or if radiation damage has occurred.
Best for: Women with smaller breasts or who are not candidates for abdominal flaps.

Implant-Based Reconstruction

Involves inserting a silicone or saline implant under the chest muscle or
skin.
May be done directly or after placing a temporary expander.

Best for: Women who prefer a shorter surgery or do not want tissue-based
reconstruction.

Choosing the Right Option

The right reconstruction depends on:

1. Your body type

2. Cancer treatment plan (like radiation)

3. Medical fitness

4. Personal preference

Why is Breast Reconstruction Important?

Breast reconstruction is more than just a surgical procedure — it plays a vital role in a woman’s physical, emotional, and psychological healing after breast cancer. Here’s why it matters:

1. Restores Body Image and Confidence

After mastectomy, many women feel a deep sense of physical loss.
Reconstruction helps restore symmetry and natural appearance, allowing
women to feel more like themselves again.
It boosts self-esteem and helps reduce body-related anxiety.

2. Improves Quality of Life

Women who undergo breast reconstruction report better emotional wellbeing and social confidence.
It contributes to a sense of wholeness and femininity

3. Reduces Psychological Distress

For many women, the loss of a breast can lead to depression, grief, and
social withdrawal.
Reconstruction can help mitigate these feelings, promoting mental healing
alongside physical recovery.

4. Offers Closure After Cancer

Reconstruction provides a sense of completion after the trauma of cancer
treatment.
It helps shift the focus from survival to living fully again

5. Personal Choice and Empowerment

Choosing reconstruction gives women a sense of control over their bodies.
It empowers them to make decisions that align with their values and sense of
identity.

6. Clothing & Intimacy Comfort

Helps women feel comfortable in their clothes, including regular bras and
swimwear.
Can ease challenges in intimate relationships by improving self-confidence.

7. Can Be Tailored to Individual Needs

Options like DIEP flap, LD flap, or implants allow reconstruction to be customized based on:
Medical condition
Lifestyle
Aesthetic goals
Treatment plan (like radiation)