Breast Cancer Reconstruction - Breast Reconstructive Surgery with Breast Implants

Breast Reconstruction Options - Breast Cancer & Breast Implants

Whether or not a mastectomy recipient chooses to be reconstructed is a very personal decision. Most women are candidates for immediate reconstruction, but some may choose to wait for a few years, or decide not to be reconstructed at all.

Silicone or saline implants are the most common and simplest form of reconstruction. Sometimes an expander, which is a partially filled implant, is used to stretch the skin first. The surgeon then injects additional fluid into the expander a few times over the next several weeks until the desired size is reached. The expander may then be removed and replaced with a "permanent" implant.

Tissue transfer is a more complex method of reconstruction. Natural tissue and muscle is removed from other body sites, often the upper back or the tummy, and transferred to the chest to recreate a natural breast mound.

Nipple reconstruction is an option for any patient who has their breast reconstructed. Sometimes a nipple is tattooed onto the reconstructed breast, and sometimes it is created using a skin graft.

Additional Reading:

• Breast Reconstruction - from the American Cancer Society
• Breast Reconstruction Surgery - from the American Society of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons (ASPRS)

Section Contents

• Information on the Internet Main Page

• Early Detection - Learn about the importance of regular examinations and how they provide your first line of defense.

• Treatment - Discussion of some of the treatment options available

• Reconstruction Options (You are here) - An overview of reconstruction options, should a woman choose reconstruction after treatment.

• Visitor's Stories - Experiences from visitors to the site.

  • Kari's Story - Learn about the woman who was the driving force behind this section of the site.

  • Connie's Story - Read about her breast cancer and treatment.

• Links to other Breast Cancer Information Sites - Other online resources you can use to learn more about breast cancer topics, information and issues.