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Health

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Implants are the most common form of breast reconstruction. Other options include Autologous tissue, Muscle, and Fat. Read on to learn about these procedures. Surgical breast reconstruction has numerous advantages but is often associated with more extended hospital stays and recovery times. These procedures also require a donor site, which can result in a significant scar. Nevertheless, breast reconstruction is an excellent option for women who wish to regain the shape and size of their chest.

Implants are the most common form of breast reconstruction.

Implants are the most common type of breast reconstruction. This surgery uses donor tissue, called an acellular dermal matrix (ADM), to create a new breast. Because the donor tissue is sterile, it is removed and placed under the implant, which stretches to form a pleasing lower breast shape. Most patients in North Carolina plastic surgery stay in the hospital for three to four days after surgery. However, they are expected to resume normal activities within two to three weeks.

Autologous tissue

The pros and cons of autologous tissue for breast reconstruction are numerous. However, patients who choose this method do not require serial expansion of their breast tissue. In addition, a patient may only require a breast lift or reduction or nipple and areola reconstruction. Autologous reconstruction also offers a natural feel to the breast, which most patients appreciate. This article will explain the advantages of autologous tissue for breast reconstruction.

Muscle

Muscle breast reconstruction is a surgical technique to replace the lost tissue and restore breast shape after a mastectomy. The procedure involves the removal of a portion of the back muscle and skin. The muscle and skin are then passed underneath the armpit, and the remaining tissue and skin are repositioned to restore the shape of the breast. The procedure takes approximately three hours and requires two to four days in the hospital. After surgery, patients must take off from work and should avoid strenuous physical activity for at least three months. It is also advisable to undergo physiotherapy to regain some flexibility.

Fat

Fat grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer, is one of the newer techniques for breast reconstruction. It involves harvesting fat tissue through liposuction and injecting it into the breast area to replicate a new breast. This technique has traditionally been used to address minor shape and balance issues. However, the use of fat as an implant has led some physicians to believe that it can be used to replace a lost breast’s entire volume.

Skin

Once a mastectomy has been performed, patients can choose to have reconstruction immediately or wait several months or years for surgery. However, if the cancer treatment has not ended, reconstruction should be delayed until after the treatment has ended. Your surgeon can help you decide when to have your surgery and will be able to provide you with an estimated timeline. In addition, reconstruction can improve the way a woman feels about her body and can help her overcome her fears about meeting new people.

Radiation therapy is a factor in breast reconstruction.

When deciding if you should go ahead with breast reconstruction surgery, your doctor may recommend radiation therapy as a factor. It will help shrink the tumor, which is an essential consideration if you have stage 4 breast cancer. In addition, this treatment can be helpful if cancer has spread to other parts of the body and is not resectable. It typically begins one month after the incision heals. It may be combined with chemotherapy if cancer spreads quickly.

Recovery time

Breast reconstruction involves re-shaping the chest area to fit a woman’s new breasts. During the first few days, the incisions and incision site are bandaged, and dressings are applied. In addition, a small tube may be inserted under the skin to drain excess blood and fluid. This tube will be removed during your first postoperative office visit. You may feel some pain, discomfort, or bruising following breast reconstruction.