What is Breast Reconstruction?
Following mastectomy (complete removal of the breast) or certain surgeries requiring extensive tissue removal due to breast cancer, a significant loss in breast form may occur. Breast reconstruction aims to rebuild the lost breast tissue not with an "aesthetic enlargement" logic, but with a reconstructive approach as a continuation of cancer treatment.
The goal in this process is to create a breast form suitable for the person's body proportions, increase balance in clothing, support daily life comfort, and help restore body image. The reconstruction plan is evaluated individually, in harmony with the oncological treatment (general surgery/oncology) process.
Who is Suitable for Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is an option that can be considered for most patients. However, the questions of "which method" and "when" are answered differently for everyone. Therefore, the decision is made by evaluating the characteristics of the disease, additional treatments (especially radiotherapy), the person's general health status, and expectations together.
Highlights in Evaluation
• Requirement for radiotherapy
• Additional diseases such as diabetes and circulatory problems
• Smoking (may affect healing, especially in reconstructions made with tissue)
• Body structure and usable tissue areas
• Previous surgeries and tissue quality
When is Breast Reconstruction Performed?
Timing in breast reconstruction is often one of the most critical parts of the treatment. Planning is not made with the dilemma of "now" or "later," but with the priority of compatibility with cancer treatment and safety.
1) Immediate Reconstruction
This is starting the repair in the same surgery as the mastectomy. It may be advantageous psychologically and aesthetically for some patients. However, it is not suitable for every patient; especially the additional treatment plan and tissue conditions are decisive.
2) Delayed Reconstruction
This is completing the cancer treatment first and then planning the reconstruction. Especially if radiotherapy is anticipated or if there are conditions that could affect tissue healing, delayed reconstruction may be considered more frequently.
3) Staged Approach
In some patients, reconstruction is applied as planned stages instead of a "one-time procedure." For example, a temporary preparation can be made, and the final shaping can be completed later. The goal is to choose the most appropriate and safest way for the treatment process.
What are Breast Reconstruction Methods?
The choice of method in breast reconstruction varies according to breast skin, muscle structure, radiotherapy plan, and the desired result. Generally, there are two main approaches:
Implant-Based Reconstruction
In this approach, the breast form is recreated with an implant. It can be applied in a single stage for some patients; for others, the process may progress in stages with a tissue expander.
What Does a Tissue Expander Do?
A tissue expander is a material temporarily placed to expand the skin and soft tissue in a controlled manner. When the appropriate stage is reached, the expander is removed, and the reconstruction can be completed with a permanent implant.
Why is Special Planning Necessary with Radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy can cause stiffness, loss of elasticity, and changes in healing dynamics in the skin and soft tissue. Therefore, implant choice, timing, and in some cases, alternative methods are evaluated more carefully.
Autologous (Tissue/Flap) Reconstruction
In this method, the breast is recreated with tissue taken from another part of the body. The main goal here is to provide a more natural tissue feeling and to reduce the need for implants in some patients.
From Which Areas Can Tissue Be Used?
Planning varies according to the patient's body structure. Frequently evaluated areas:
• Abdominal tissue (approaches similar to "DIEP/TRAM" in some techniques)
• Back tissue (can also be planned with an implant in some cases)
• Thigh or other areas (in selected cases)
Which of these options is suitable is determined according to tissue quality, vascular structure, surgical history, and additional treatment plan.
Nipple (Areola) and Symmetry Adjustments
According to the type of mastectomy, the nipple can be preserved in some patients; in others, the nipple and areola can be recreated later in a second stage. Additionally, in unilateral reconstructions, additional adjustments can be planned for the opposite breast in suitable patients to provide balance.
How is the Recovery Process?
The recovery time varies according to the chosen method, whether it proceeds in a single stage or in stages, and additional treatments. Generally, edema, sensitivity, and movement restriction can be seen in the first period. Using a medical bra recommended by the doctor, wound care, and coming for regular checks directly affect the quality of healing.
Reconstruction should often be thought of not as "a single day" but as a planned roadmap. This approach strengthens both safety and the long-term result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does breast reconstruction affect cancer follow-up?
Cancer follow-up continues in accordance with the oncology and general surgery plan. The planning of reconstruction is made to be compatible with this follow-up and additional treatments.
How many surgeries can reconstruction take?
This varies according to the method. It can be significantly completed in a single stage in some patients; in others, a staged process may be required. The goal is not the shortest path, but the most correct and sustainable path.
Is an implant or my own tissue better?
"Better" is not a single answer. An individual evaluation is made based on the radiotherapy plan, tissue quality, body structure, and expectations.
Conclusion: Breast Reconstruction is a Personalized Planning in Harmony with Treatment
Breast reconstruction is a reconstructive approach that aims to recreate the lost breast form after breast cancer treatment. Correct method and correct timing determine both safety and long-term satisfaction. Therefore, the healthiest step is to create a reconstruction plan suitable for personal conditions with an examination.
Information Note: This content is for general informational purposes. The diagnosis and treatment plan are determined by individual examination and medical evaluation.