Breast Reconstruction

Following mastectomy to treat breast cancer, or as a preventative measure in high risk families, many women choose to have a breast reconstruction in order to give them a more whole or balanced appearance.  This can have many benefits for a woman’s sense of well-being, as well as for her physical, sexual, and psychological health.

Breast reconstruction involves making a new breast mound using either a breast implant or the patient’s own tissues.  Breast implants can be filled with either silicone or saline, and may need a preliminary stage of gradual inflation over time to allow the tissues to stretch before inserting the final prosthesis.

A breast mound can also be made by using a patient’s own tissue.  This tissue can be a muscle taken from the upper back, called the latissimus dorsi flap, or can be made entirely from the lower abdominal tissue, called a TRAM flap, which has the additional benefit of giving the patient a ‘tummy tuck’.

To complete the reconstruction, a new nipple can be made by folding up small flaps of skin from the breast.  This is usually performed some months later when the new breast has settled into position.  Medical tattooing can then be used to recreate the natural colouring of this part of the breast

A reconstructed breast will not always match the remaining natural breast perfectly.  Balancing procedures to lift and/or reduce the other breast may be required to achieve better symmetry.

If you are considering breast reconstruction, we encourage you to contact our office for an appointment so that we may discuss your particular needs.