Previous | Next | Back to Breast Cancer Center | Breast cancer- Understanding treatment options
As you consider mastectomy as a treatment option, you should be aware of breast reconstruction, a way to recreate the breast's shape after a natural breast has been removed. This procedure is gaining in popularity, although many women are still unaware of it.
Today, almost any woman who has had a mastectomy can have her breast reconstructed. Successful reconstruction is no longer hampered by radiation-damaged, thin, or tight skin, or the absence of chest muscles.
Reconstruction is not for everyone, however. And it may not be right for you. After mastectomy, many women prefer to wear artificial breast forms inside their brassieres.
Both a general surgeon and a plastic surgeon may help you decide whether to have breast reconstruction. If possible, you should discuss breast reconstruction before your surgery because the position of the incision may affect the reconstruction procedure. However, many women consider the option of reconstruction only after surgery.