Timing of Breast Reconstruction

Immediate breast reconstruction takes place at the time of the mastectomy. Usually the mastectomy can be performed in a "skin sparing" fashion, in other words, the skin of the breast is preserved, and only the underlying breast tissue needs to be removed with the tumor. The nipple is also usually removed because the ducts, where the cancer cells originate, exit at the nipple. In this type of breast reconstruction the volume of the breast as well as a small skin patch needs to be restored.

In cases where there is a high likelihood the cancer treatment will include radiation, the reconstruction is usually performed at a later date. This is called delayed breast reconstruction and the reasoning for this approach is that the flap, or the tissue used for reconstruction, can be adversely and unpredictably affected by the radiation. In this type of breast reconstruction after mastectomy, entire breast skin, as well as the breast volume, needs to be restored.

When the time is right, at the Center for Breast Restoration we can help you choose the right type of breast reconstruction procedure.  Contact us to schedule your consultation.