Following breast cancer treatment, or surgery, many women are given different options for breast reconstruction surgery. For many women, the thought of losing one or both breasts can be just as overwhelming and terrifying as a breast cancer diagnosis. At The Lett Center in Nashville, Tennessee we understand the different emotions and feelings not only come with a diagnosis, but even during the healing and recovery process.
In an effort to help women in their recovery process, and to gain a part of them that may have felt stolen, or lost, we offer different options for breast reconstruction surgery. Implant reconstruction surgery and a DIEP flap reconstruction surgery are both common options following breast cancer surgery. Both work in different ways, yet with the same goal to reshape and remold the breasts.
What is Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Breast reconstruction surgery is a type of procedure specifically geared towards women who have undergone a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or any major injury to the breasts. The two main types of breast reconstruction surgeries that most women go for are either a DIEP flap reconstruction surgery or a breast implant procedure. Whichever route is chosen, both are considered major surgeries as they require anesthesia and adequate recovery time.
Who Needs Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Typically a breast reconstruction surgery of any kind is suggested for women following breast cancer surgery or treatment. The goal is to mainly restore the breasts to their natural look prior to treatments.
Breast Reconstruction Options
While there are a variety of options for breast reconstruction, and not every woman who undergoes breast cancer treatment will choose reconstructive surgery, there are two options that seem to be the most common. Breast implant surgery and DIEP flap surgery are both performed in unique, and different ways.
Implant
Breast implant surgery is done by a surgeon who inserts a medical device which is shaped like a breast. The implants are typically silicon, but filled with either a gel or saline substance. Breast implants come in different shapes and sizes to better meet the goals of each patient.
While breast implants are a common option for breast reconstruction surgery it is important to know that breast implants often have a shelf life. Breast implants can usually last anywhere from 10 to 25 years. In some patients, breast implants can last even longer or a lifetime.
What a shelf life means regarding breast implants is that they can be impacted by average wear and strain on the breast. In addition, if there is external trauma to the breast implant it could lead to shifting or rupture of the breast.
Either way, it is always helpful to monitor any changes with breast implants and share with your surgeon any concerns. If there has been a rupture or shift with breast implants then your surgeon will more than likely replace the old breast implant with a new one.
When Can Breast Implant Surgery Be Performed?
In some cases breast implants surgery can be done immediately following a mastectomy. Whereas in other cases the surgery is better to be performed following completion of breast cancer treatment, and when the doctor gives the green light for this surgery. It is also important to be aware that in many cases, patients may have to undergo an additional surgery to better prepare for breast implants. This is done by the surgeon using tissue expanders which work to stretch the skin and soft tissues in the breast to make the proper room for the implants. This expander can take place in the breasts for a few months, then the implants are inserted when the doctors determine that the breast has expanded adequately.
How Painful is Breast Implant Reconstruction Surgery?
Undergoing breast implant surgery is not usually painful itself. Since patients are either under local anesthesia with the breast being numbed or general anesthesia with the patient is asleep during the whole procedure. Any pain from breast implant surgery appears following the procedure due to soreness of the incision site with swelling, which may last for a few weeks.
Most pain from this surgery can be managed with over the counter pain relievers. In cases where a patient finds they are dealing with severe pain and soreness following this procedure and not finding relief with an OTC pain killer, then the surgeon is able to provide prescription pain relievers.
How Long to Heal From Breast Implant Reconstruction Surgery?
Initial soreness or pain from breast implant surgery can last anywhere from 2-3 weeks, while the healing process takes a bit longer. The incisions site is either closed with either non-dissolvable or dissolvable stitches, or special medical grade glue. Depending on which type of method your surgeon uses to close the incisions the incision sight may take 1 -2 weeks to heal. Around this time patients usually start feeling better to resume normal day to day activities, with continuous healing. It is important to keep in mind that breast implants take up to 6 weeks to 3 months to look “normal” following surgery.
Flap
DIEP Flap Reconstruction Surgery
Besides breast implant surgery, DIEP flap reconstruction surgery is another top surgery patients opt for when needing breast reconstruction following breast cancer treatments.
The main difference between DIEP flap surgery and breast implants is what exactly is used to mold and shape the breast. The surgeon does not remove any abdomen muscle. With DIEP flap surgery, the surgeon reshapes the breast by surgically removing excess skin, tissue, and blood vessels from the lower abdomen and places it strategically in the breasts.
One main reason why patients opt for a DIEP flap reconstruction surgery is that it can create a more “natural” look to the breasts since it is made of the patient’s own skin and tissue. Additionally, breasts that are reconstructed by a DIEP flap surgery can change in size if the patient were to gain or lose weight. Many surgeons regard a DIEP flap reconstruction surgery as the “gold standard” as it utilizes the patient’s own skin to keep the breast natural looking without compromising the integrity of the abdomen region. Contrary to the risk of breast implant rupture with breast implant surgery, DIEP flap reconstruction surgery is permanent and will last a lifetime, since it is reconstructed with the patient’s skin and blood vessels.
Is a Diep Flap Reconstruction Surgery the Same as a Tummy Tuck?
Some patients may think DIEP flap surgery is the same as a tummy tuck since skin is removed from the abdomen in post surgery, however this is not entirely the case. Yes, both do remove excess fat from the abdomen, which some patients may benefit from, but the entire goal of a DIEP flap surgery is to reshape the breast with the help of the patient’s own tissues.
While the entire goal of a tummy tuck is to simply to remove excess skin in the abdomen area for a more tone and tighten look. Patients who undergo a DIEP flap reconstructive surgery may see a difference in their mid section, but it may not be as transformative as a tummy tuck.
When Can DIEP Flap Reconstruction Surgery Be Performed?
A DIEP flap reconstruction surgery can be performed immediately following a mastectomy if chemo or further cancer treatments are not needed. For some patients who undergo a mastectomy, and additional rounds of chemo, then their doctor may suggest a delayed breast reconstruction. Meaning, the DIEP flap surgery is performed after treatments with clearance from their doctor. If patients need to go with the delayed reconstruction option, then their surgeon will also use a tissue expander to stretch the breast until actual surgery.
How Painful is a DIEP Flap Reconstruction Surgery?
DIEP flap reconstruction surgery is performed while the patient is under anesthesia, allowing them to sleep and not feel anything during the procedure. Similar to breast implant surgery, patients who undergo a DIEP flap reconstruction surgery may only feel pain, tenderness, or soreness in the days following their procedure. Most pain can be managed by over the counter pain relievers, however if these do not aid in relieving pain, doctors are able to prescribe the appropriate medicine to better manage pain.
How Long to Heal from DIEP Flap Reconstruction Surgery?
In total, patients can expect to heal from DIEP flap reconstruction surgery within 6-8 weeks. More specifically, patients who undergo this surgery are usually advised to avoid any strenuous activities, or heavy lifting during this time. However, some surgeons may suggest light movement like walking for simply overall health and circulation. During the healing process it is normal to experience swelling, numbness, and even tightness of the abdomen in breasts. These feelings will go away with time.
Alternatives to Breast Reconstruction Surgery
The decision to undergo breast reconstruction surgery is entirely up to the patient. Some women feel comfortable undergoing either procedure, while some may not be as keen on reconstruction surgery. Instead, there are alternatives to breast reconstruction surgery, such as a breast prosthesis. These are non-surgical options for women who have undergone a mastectomy, and are looking to restore the breasts without surgery.
A breast prosthesis is an artificial device made out of silicone in the shape of a breast which fits into a bra. With a breast prosthesis, women can select from a variety of sizes to best suit them, and can choose when they want to wear it.
How Do I Know Which Breast Reconstruction Surgery is Best for Me?
If a patient is unsure of which breast reconstruction surgery to go for, it’s best to consider which results you’re aiming for. If you are looking for a more natural breast look, that will change if your body gains or loses weight, then a DIEP flap surgery may be your right option. On the other hand, if you’re not wanting as many incisions that come with a DIEP flap surgery, then a breast implant may be best for you. Regardless, it is always best to consult your options with your doctor as they can answer any further questions you may have.
How to Find the Right Plastic Surgeon for a Breast Reconstruction
When looking for the right plastic surgeon for breast reconstruction you will want to look for a board-certified plastic surgeon. It may also be helpful to learn about their educational background and residency as these things offer more credibility for surgeons. In addition, consider reading reviews of surgeons, and check out their before and after images of patients if available. You can always connect with a surgeon for breast reconstruction surgery consultation if you have more questions.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery With The Lett Center in Nashville, TN
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can leave you feeling powerless, scared, and unsure. When undergoing treatments to treat and fight this diagnosis, you may also experience a sense of grief and loss in many different ways. With breast reconstruction surgery at The Lett Center in Nashville, TN our goal is to offer restoration to each woman who walks through our doors. Dr. Lett is a board-certified plastic surgeon, who will work with you to determine the reconstruction plan that best fits your specific needs.
Wherever you are in your breast cancer journey, The Lett Center would be honored to walk alongside you to help you bring back a sense of self that may have once been lost. We look forward to meeting you.