Breast Repair After Cancer

Breast reconstruction surgeries performed by plastic surgeons after breast removal due to breast cancer significantly improve the quality of life of women both physically and psychologically. Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon Specialist stated that although these surgeries are performed optionally, they contribute greatly to women's social lives. Pointing out that the increase in the incidence of breast cancer and successful results in treatment have further increased the importance of this issue, our specialist said, “Breast reconstruction surgeries, which also contribute to the woman's regaining her self-confidence, are one of the most gratifying procedures of plastic surgery.”

Why is breast reconstruction (repair) performed?

The necessity to remove one breast or both breasts in the treatment of breast cancer, one of the most common types of cancer in women, can affect patients both physically and mentally. Emphasizing that breast reconstruction surgeries performed with the right timing and method contribute greatly to the quality of life of women in this process, Yeditepe University Kosuyolu Hospital Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon Specialist stated that plastic surgery support provides a noticeable improvement in women's social life and self-confidence, said, “Our goal is to discharge our patients with a new breast and make them much happier and able to wear clothes.”

'It Contributes to Women's Social Life'

Pointing out that breast loss can be not only physically but also emotionally devastating for women, our specialist said, "Breast cancer is quite common today. In addition to the negative feelings brought by cancer, the number of women who have to lose some or all of their breasts is not small. Recreating a breast with aesthetic surgery is an important step that increases both psychological support and quality of life. These surgeries are one of the most satisfying applications of plastic surgery."

When Is Breast Repair Performed After Cancer?

Stating that it is possible to reconstruct the breast after breast removal surgery for breast cancer treatment, our aesthetic specialist continued his words as follows: "General surgeons may have to remove some or all of the breast in order to completely remove the cancer. At this point, we come into play as plastic surgeons. Immediately after the removal of the breast, it is possible to create a new breast simultaneously. Or our patients may apply to us for breast reconstruction surgery in the future."

Referring to when the new breast will be created after breast cancer surgery and whether there is a relationship with the existing breast cancer risk, our specialist gave the following information: "Breast reconstruction does not conflict with cancer treatment. After all precautions are taken to prevent the cancer from recurring, plastic surgeons proceed to new breast construction. Neither in Turkey nor abroad, incomplete cancer surgery is not performed for aesthetic concerns. There is no evidence that this procedure increases the risk of recurrence of existing breast cancer."

What are the Methods Used in Breast Reconstruction (repair)?

Stating that two different methods are used for breast reconstruction, our specialist gave the following information about surgical options: "One of the methods is breast reconstruction surgery with silicone implants. In the other method, the patient's own existing tissues, that is, the patient's own tissues, are used to reconstruct the breast. In surgeries performed with silicone implants, part of the skin is preserved in breast cancer surgery, silicone implants are placed inside and the breast shape is given with the outer skin. With this method, the patient is also protected from the psychological effects of not losing her breast after cancer surgery. In the core tissue technique, a new breast is created using abdominal or back tissue. For example, a woman with a slight belly button can have a breast made with belly tissue while a tummy tuck is performed at the same time. Which method will be preferred is determined by the general condition of the patient, the experience of the surgeon and the interviews with the patient."

Who Can Have Breast Reconstruction (repair)?

Emphasizing that breast reconstruction surgery can be performed on women of all ages, our specialist said: "Breast reconstruction surgeries can be performed on any patient diagnosed with cancer. Age does not matter. For example, breast cancer at the age of 20 is very rare, but is it not done? Of course it can be done. A different patient may have what we call gene positivity. A patient with a family history of breast cancer may have a risk of breast cancer determined by genetic analysis. General surgery performs the risk analysis. These patients may be told by general surgery specialists that they can be protected from cancer if their breasts are removed and emptied. Even in this case, the breast can be reconstructed by plastic surgery. Patients aged 40 and 50 can also undergo breast reconstruction surgery. Techniques may vary, which technique is appropriate is evaluated individually for each patient. It is also possible for a patient whose breast was removed in the past and who has no breast in her chest to have a breast after years. If there are such patients, they can apply."

Is Breast Reconstruction(repair) Risky?

Stating that breast reconstruction surgeries may involve some risks, our specialist said the following: "Like any surgery, this operation may also include some complications. Situations such as infection and tissue separation may occur. However, these risks can be managed. When the surgeon and the patient work in harmony, this process is successfully managed. We stand by our patients and support them until the end of the process."