The journey of breast cancer treatment is full of decisions like the need for mastectomy or breast conserving surgery, followed by reconstruction requirement and lastly need of radiation. Cancer treatment is a journey of choices. People seek to balance the physical and emotional parts of breast cancer recovery.
Breast conservation surgery aims to reconstruct the breast volume after removal of cancerous tissue. Plastic surgeon does the reconstruction while cancer surgeon does the latter. Breast conserving surgery offers a less invasive option to mastectomy and is the current norm to preserve as much of breast as is feasible. This leaves a small defect in the breast after removal of the tumor.
Now if the volume loss created by tumor removal is more than 15% of total breast volume, then it requires to be reconstructed to give a symmetric, aesthetically acceptable and pleasing breast. This is very essential to build back the confidence of a woman.
Dr. Leena Jain is a renowned Plastic Surgeon in Borivali. She aims to shed light on this complex decision process. Dr. Jain has extensive experience. She has worked particularly in Bandra and Borivali. She offers invaluable insights into breast reconstruction and breast cancer treatment.
Dr Leena Jain Shedding lights on Importance of Breast Reconstruction, Types, and Procedure
Guess what? Breast reconstruction can be a transformative journey. Learn how it might be the right choice for you.
Curious about breast reconstruction after BCS? Discover how we can help you feel whole again. Get expert advice now!
Breast Conservation Surgery (BCS) Explained
Breast Conservation Surgery, is known as lumpectomy or quadrantectomy. It removes cancerous tissues from the breast. It also takes a bit of nearby healthy tissue. The goal is to save as much of the breast as possible. This procedure is for early-stage breast cancer patients. It focuses on removing cancer while keeping the breast’s appearance. After surgery, patients get radiation therapy. It kills any remaining cancer cells to stop the cancer from returning. Many prefer BCS. It aims to keep the breast’s appearance while treating cancer.
Here’s the deal! Deciding on breast reconstruction isn’t easy. Let us help simplify the process for you.
Who should opt for breast reconstruction after BCS?
According to Dr. Leena Jain, “choosing breast reconstruction after Breast Conservation Surgery (BCS) is a personal decision and not necessary for everyone.”
Factors influencing this choice include:
- Amount of tissue removed: This affects the chance of considering reconstruction. More tissue out during BCS means more likely to consider it to restore the breast’s shape and size.
- Breast Size: Patients with larger breasts might not see as big a change after BCS. Those with smaller breasts will notice a definite depression and asymmetry in the two breasts.
- Aesthetic Concerns: asymmetric volume depleted breasts definitely affect the woman’s appearance and confidence, hence requires reconstruction.
- Psychological Well-being: Breast cancer and its treatment can hurt a patient’s body image and self-esteem. This can influence the decision to have reconstruction.
Patient Considerations
When deciding on breast reconstruction after breast conservation surgery, patients must consider many personal and medical factors. They need to make the best decision for their health and well-being. Choosing breast reconstruction depends on several patient-specific factors. These include the cancer stage, overall health, and personal surgery preferences.
- Stage of Cancer.
- Overall Health
- Personal Preferences
- Understanding the Surgical Process
- Recovery Expectations
- Impact on Body Image and Self-esteem
Imagine feeling confident again. Learn about post-BCS reconstruction options. Contact us now!
Breast Reconstruction Techniques:
There are two types of breast reconstrmection surgery
- Implant reconstruction:
- Autologous or “flap” reconstruction:
- 1. Implant-based reconstruction: Usually breast volume removed is only 20-30 % hence implants are not the primary choice. Besides, they interfere with radiation.
- 2. Autologous flap reconstruction: This is the method of choice to restore size, symmetry and shape of the breast. Here two important methods are employed depending on the tumour location:
- A. Local or regional flaps: Here tissue of required dimensions is taken from the side of the chest or from the back or inferior to the breast and moved into the defect. This way the volume and shape of breast are reconstituted.
Commonly done flaps are– Thoracodorsal artery perforator flap, anterior or lateral intercostal artery perforator flaps. From wherever the flap is taken that area will have a single line fine scar, without any functional compromise.
- B. Breast reduction: In a woman with heavy breasts undergoing breast conserving tumor removal can undergo a breast reduction surgery. Here the entire volume of both breasts is reduced in a symmetric manner. The large sagging breasts will now be replaced with smaller, symmetric and upright breasts; again tremendously boosting a woman’s confidence and appearance. In addition, the symptoms associated with heavy breasts like back pan, shoulder pain and neck pain disappear. Healing time for both breasts after reaction is about two weeks.
Timing is everything when it comes to reconstruction post-BCS. Find out the best approach for you.
Best Time to Undergo Breast Reconstruction Following BCS
The timing of breast reconstruction can vary. Reconstruction may happen right away during BCS- primary reconstruction. Or, it can be delayed for those who wish to wait due to extra cancer treatments- secondary reconstruction. Dr. Jain emphasizes on the importance of breast reconstruction during the cancer removal itself – that is, during the primary surgery as the anatomy is best delineated, healing is optimal, both are done during a single anaesthesia and patient feels her breast restored and this gives a psychological boost to the entire cancer treatment.
Want to know how successful it turns out? Success stories abound. Discover how breast reconstruction has helped many regain confidence post-BCS.
Success Rate of Breast Reconstruction Surgery After BCS
The success rate of breast reconstruction post-BCS is generally high. Advances in surgical techniques have improved aesthetic results and minimized complications. However, success is subjective. Patient satisfaction and post-recovery quality of life measure it.
CONCLUSION
Reconstructing a breast after breast conservation surgery is a personal choice. It is influenced by medical, psychological, and aesthetic factors. Dr. Leena Jain is a distinguished Plastic Surgeon in Mumbai. She stresses the importance of a tailored and comprehensive approach. It ensures that patients get full care that fits their desires and health needs. By understanding BCS and breast reconstruction, patients can make empowered decisions. They can do this alongside their healthcare providers.
Reclaim control after breast cancer by exploring your reconstruction options. Book your appointment now!
FAQs
- Is breast reconstruction always necessary after breast conservation surgery?
Yes, more often than not, breast reconstruction is always necessary after BCS. The need for reconstruction depends on the amount of tissue removed .
2. Does breast reconstruction affect cancer treatment outcomes?
Breast reconstruction does not affect cancer treatment outcomes. It is crucial to plan reconstruction around cancer treatments to ensure the best possible health results.
- Is breast reconstruction covered by health insurance?
Often, health insurance covers breast reconstruction as part of breast cancer treatment. Yet, it can vary, so patients should verify with their insurance provider.