Breast Reconstruction

The goal of breast reconstruction is to create a breast that looks natural in clothing following removal of a breast due to cancer or other disease. Breast reconstruction can be done immediately following a mastectomy or at a later date. It can improve a woman’s appearance, quality of life and boost her self-confidence.

A personal consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon will be one of the first steps in considering breast reconstruction. Your surgeon will evaluate your physical and emotional health and discuss your goals of the breast reconstruction.

There are many options available for breast reconstruction. Your anatomy, your surgeon’s preferences, and the outcome you desire for the procedure will help determine the best method for you.

View an educational video of this procedure.

Choosing a plastic surgeon

One of the most important factors in the success of breast reconstruction is in your choice of a plastic surgeon. This is significant because there are some physicians who perform cosmetic surgery who have had no formal surgical training at all. Find out if the surgeon you are considering is certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery. Surgeons with this certification have completed a minimum of five years of surgical training, with at least two years specifically in plastic surgery. Also, ask about the surgeon’s hospital privileges and previous breast surgery experience. Even though you may have your surgery at your doctor’s office or at a surgery center, it’s significant to know that a hospital review committee evaluates a surgeon’s training and competency for specific procedures, before granting the surgeon privileges.

Is your surgeon certified? Search here to find one that is.

Things to consider before surgery

If you are thinking about having reconstructive surgery, it is a good idea to discuss it with your surgeon and plastic surgeon before your mastectomy. This allows the surgical teams to plan the treatment that is best for you, even if you decide to wait and have reconstructive surgery later.

Below is a list of commonly asked questions. Write down other questions as you think of them and be sure to take good notes of your conversations. Bringing a family member or friend along to help take notes can be very beneficial.

Some frequently asked question about breast reconstruction:

What is the latest information about the safety of silicone breast implants?

Which type of surgery would give me the best results? Why? How will I look afterward?

What is the average cost of each type? Does my insurance cover them?

How much experience do you (the plastic surgeon) have with this procedure?

When can my reconstruction begin?

How many surgeries will I need?

View a printable list of questions to ask your doctor. To view and print this list, you will need the Free Adobe Acrobat Reader® software.