How to Plan for your Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction surgery is for women who undergo a mastectomy (the removal of one or both breasts). Usually a woman will undergo a mastectomy when cancerous growth is detected in that part of the body. Breast reconstruction in such a situation is something to be considered to improve the shape of the breasts and enhance their overall appearance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Make sure that you are mentally prepared and physically fit for this surgery. Physical fitness can only be assessed by your doctor.
2. Contact a plastic surgeon or an oncologist in your neighborhood by making an appointment for a consultation. You can prepare a list of surgeons from the Yellow Pages or from an online search of surgeons in your area. Also, your family doctor can also recommend the name of a plastic surgeon.
3. Meet the surgeon and inform them of the reasons you want to undergo this surgery. Tell the doctor about your habits, physical problems and any medications you take.
4. Seek the advice of your surgeon depending on your present health. Ask if this surgery would be beneficial to you or not. Clear up any doubts about the surgery before making the decision.
5. Inquire about the risk factors, types of breast reconstruction, operation time, the healing period and so on.
6. Understand the kind of breast reconstruction method. It can be a simple flap or an expander and implant. The surgeon will create a mound that resembles a normal breast. They may use tissue from the back, thigh or abdomen of your own body to rebuild the breast. Another surgery may be needed in case you want the nipple and areola restored.
7. Check with your medical insurance company on what is covered, and if you don't have the necessary coverage, determine the cost and how you will pay for the surgery.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow all the guidelines provided by your doctor concerning your fitness and health.
• Choose the plastic and breast surgeon carefully after several consultations. Make sure you have all your questions answered before taking such a big step.
• Get more information on breast reconstruction surgery online (see Resources below).
• Keep your expecations realistic about the surgery results. It provides improvement, not perfection.