What is a mastectomy with reconstruction?
A mastectomy with reconstruction is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or both breasts (mastectomy) to treat or prevent breast cancer. This can then be followed by reconstructive surgery to rebuild the shape and appearance of the breast(s).
Breast reconstruction after a mastectomy might be the next big step you take in your breast cancer journey. You may have questions or concerns about size, shape, materials and the longevity of breast implants. Breast reconstruction in the 21st century, however, is something our specialists are proud to be a part of, as advances in technology have afforded patients greater choice and improved end results.
What are the different types of breast reconstruction?
At Allevia Breast Institute, we offer two different types of breast reconstruction: flaps and implants. One is an implant-based procedure, and the other constructs the breast from body tissue.
Depending on your specific case, as well as medical reasons, one breast reconstruction surgery may be more suitable than the other for your individual body, or you may be given an equal choice to decide between the two different reconstruction options. We ensure our advice is always guided by each individual’s situation and what is going to work best for our patients' wellbeing.
Implants
Implants
If you opt for an implant reconstruction, you’ll receive an implant filled with either silicone gel or saline (salt water) which will be placed under your pectoral chest muscle. Usually the initial implant is temporary and is gradually filled with saline over a few months to stretch the protective muscle layer. The initial implant is then replaced by a much longer lasting silicone gel implant in a second operation that will take approximately two hours under general anaesthesia. You will spend one to two nights in hospital for the first procedure, and one night in hospital for the second.
Flap Reconstruction
Flap Reconstruction
Flap reconstruction is a type of breast reconstruction that uses tissue from another part of your body, such as the abdomen, back, thighs, or buttocks to rebuild the breast. This tissue, known as a "flap," includes skin, fat, and sometimes muscle, and is either left connected to its original blood supply and tunneled to the chest (pedicled flap) or completely detached and reattached using microsurgery (free flap). Flap reconstruction typically results in a more natural look and feel when compared to implants, but involves a longer surgery and recovery time due to the more in-depth surgery required.
Can I have reconstruction at the same time as my mastectomy?
Whilst many patients may be offered the choice of a mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction surgery as part of their breast removal operation, there may be some cases where surgeons advise patients to wait a period of time before undergoing reconstruction.
This can sometimes be six to twelve months or so, depending on individual requirements, such as post-surgery radiation or chemotherapy. In these cases, this treatment may be affected by breast reconstruction, and surgeons will advise patients to wait until they undergo breast reconstruction after cancer treatment.
Our specialists will talk you through the best reconstruction options for you to ensure clarity and transparency throughout the decision-making process.
What is the recovery time for a mastectomy with reconstruction?
The recovery time for a mastectomy with reconstruction depends on several factors, including the type of mastectomy you have, the reconstruction method used and your overall health conditions.
Your recovery time will depend on your individual circumstances, including whether you have breast reconstruction surgery immediately following your mastectomy or in the months that follow.
Every case is individual, but in general, most recovery times for a mastectomy with reconstruction are around 12 weeks.
Should I have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy?
Your decision to undergo breast reconstruction surgery is completely unique and an individual decision only you can make. Our team will help guide you through the process to help you understand your options, so you can choose the option that’s right for you and your wellbeing.
What is the cost for breast reconstruction in NZ?
The cost of breast reconstruction depends on your unique circumstances and the specific treatment you require.
Please contact our team at Allevia Breast Institute to discuss your case and how we can help you get the support you need on your journey.
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