How long do patients wait to undergo immediate breast reconstruction?

Breast cancer patients can either receive immediate breast reconstruction or wait. Mainly, the decision to wait is a question to be evaluated with the patient’s treatment team.

Although it may seem like many cancer patients face the same issues or complications, especially when it comes to breast cancer, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Breast cancer affects each patient in a different manner and varies depending on a range of factors including age, previous health conditions and the severity of cancer itself.

Who Is Reconstruction Surgery For?

Breast cancer patients in remission or cancer-free can benefit from breast reconstruction surgery. Many choose to undergo breast reconstruction surgery, but how long they may wait to do so can vary.

Who Gets Immediate Reconstruction Surgery?

According to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania Health System in Philadelphia, younger white women are more likely to undergo immediate breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.

In comparison, those who are non-white and older than 45 are more likely to wait or not have the procedure done at all. The study also found that rates of breast reconstruction surgeries rose between 2005 and 2011 to 40 percent, an increase of 14 percent. More than half of the women under the age of 45 had immediate reconstruction, compared to just 11 percent who identified as 65 or older.

Take charge of your body with a breast reconstruction surgery.

Does the Data Show Different Results for Minorities?

The results from the American Journal of Surgery found that 35 percent of white women choose to undergo immediate reconstruction. In comparison to 33 percent of Latina women and 24.6 percent of African Americans who chose to wait.

“We used to think women shouldn’t have reconstruction immediately, we should treat the cancer first, but in the vast majority of cases immediate reconstruction is just as safe as later reconstruction,” said Dr. Andrea Pusic of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.

Who Should Get Immediate Breast Reconstruction Surgery?

Breast cancer reconstruction may be an ideal choice for many patients. However, patients must carefully consider immediate reconstruction surgery with their doctor. Patients must rely on the discretion of an experienced plastic surgeon and their personal physician before undergoing surgery.

Undergoing breast cancer treatments can be extremely taxing on the body, changing it completely. Often, reconstruction does help change their lives. However, reconstruction should only be completed when every consideration is taken into account. Patients should carefully consult their doctors to examine factors including health, risk of cancer returning, medical predisposition and mental health.

How Does This Process Work?

Breast reconstruction can be completed through a range of different procedures which will be discussed during your initial consultation. All types of reconstruction surgery work toward restoring the breast to the same size and shape.

Will The Breasts Still Have the Same Feeling After Surgery?

Although breast reconstruction can rebuild the breast, it will not have the same sensation as the original breast. Usually, it will carry visible, permanent incision lines. Additionally, certain surgical techniques may leave marks on other parts of the body, depending on the surgical method used.

If you believe breast reconstruction is right for you, consider scheduling a consultation today at a med spa in Mt. Juliet or Lebanon, TN.