If you are about to have cancer surgery, you have more difficult decisions to make. Once you have gotten over the shock of the diagnosis, now they want you to make more plans about your life and your body. Should you have breast reconstruction simultaneously with your cancer surgery, or should you wait? Should you have it at all? Let’s look at breast reconstruction after fighting cancer.
It Is Your Decision
Most women dealing with breast cancer feel like they have lost all control: control of their body, their life, and their future. Making a decision about breast reconstruction can help you regain some of that control.
You have several options:
- You can choose to have reconstructive breast surgery.
- You can choose not to have reconstructive surgery.
- You can decide to have it at the same time as you have cancer surgery, known as immediate reconstruction.
- You can decide to wait, known as delayed reconstruction.
Some women are overwhelmed and just don’t want to make a decision right now. It is understandable, but before you do, have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. Someone like Dr. Loreen Ali can walk you through all the pros and cons of each choice. It is recommended that you do this before your cancer surgery even if you decide to have it delayed.
Regardless of what you decide, you are taking back some control over your life.
Benefits of Reconstructive Breast Surgery
Whether you are having a lumpectomy or a mastectomy, breast reconstruction can give you back the shape and symmetry of one or both breasts.
Something every breast cancer patient needs is self confidence and self esteem. You want to look as normal as possible in all your clothes and especially a swimsuit. Know your options and talk with Dr. Loreen Ali about what is right for you.
Other benefits of reconstructive surgery include the following:
- It helps to restore the look of your breasts before surgery.
- Eliminates the need for a prosthesis.
- The breasts will look and feel like the natural part of your body.
- You will feel more like a woman with symmetric breasts.
Who Are the Best Candidates for Breast Reconstruction?
You must be a healthy non-smoker to be considered for breast reconstruction.
Although it won’t disqualify you from the surgery, smoking, being overweight, having diabetes, or high blood pressure may cause complications post surgery.
If you want to know more from women who have been there, click this link for additional information.
Contact New England Plastic Surgery Center to schedule a breast reconstruction surgery consultation in Chelmsford and discuss the best options for you. Give us a call at (978) 942-4835 or request an appointment through our secure online form.