Mastectomy and breast reconstruction - Can the procedures be combined?
My mom gets really painful cysts in her breasts constantly. It's not cancer, but she is tired of having tons of biopsies and plans to have a mastectomy later this year. From what I recall when my grandmother (my dad's mom) had a mastectomy due to breast cancer, she had to wait some time before having the breast reconstruction. But I was wondering if there is any way the two procedures could be done in succession, during the same surgery session, in cases like this where there is no breast cancer involved.
Asked by: A.F. from Kent, WA
Answers (2)
Immediate breast reconstruction is preferred
Immediate reconstruction following mastectomy is preferred since it preserves skin if necessary, reduces scarring, reduces time to completion and number of procedures, and obviated problems associated with delayed reconstruction.
However, your general surgeon, if he/she is doing the mastectomy, needs to coordinate both procedures with your plastic surgeon.
A prophylactic mastectomy is different than a "curative" mastectomy for cancer and may, in fact, be a partial, or subcutaneous mastectomy that might be performed by a plastic surgeon.
A plastic surgeon experienced with various types of situations and reconstructive options (autologous flaps, expanders, immediate or serial implants, various combinations) should be able to give you a clear picture of what you can expect once the dust settles.
The two procedures can be done at the same time.
In a cancer operation not only is the breast tissue removed but the skin is removed as well. In that situation, the reconstructive surgeon may elect to place a tissue expander to stretch the skin over time and return at a later date to place the permanent breast implant.
Since this is not a cancer operation no skin will need to be taken, allowing the surgeon to place the permanent implant at the time of the mastectomy. In fact, the nipple and areola can also be maintained, which will help the final cosmetic result.
This is not uncommon and your general and plastic surgeon will be able to help you and your Mom understand the options available to her. She should do well with this procedure.
I wish you all the best.
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