If you’ve had a mastectomy, you’re not alone. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women in the US will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. If you’ve had a mastectomy, you may be considering breast reconstruction.
While the decision to have breast reconstruction is personal, there are many benefits of breast reconstruction after cancer. Reconstruction can restore your breast’s appearance, improve your self-confidence, and give you a sense of closure after cancer.
If you’re considering breast reconstruction, read about the top 3 benefits after cancer.
Restoring Your Breast’s Appearance
One of the main benefits of breast reconstruction after cancer is that it can restore the appearance of your breast. Whether you choose to have implant-based reconstruction or autologous reconstruction, your surgeon will work to create a new breast that looks natural and similar to your other breast.
In implant-based reconstruction, an implant helps to create a new breast. Your surgeon will place the implant in a pocket created either under your chest muscle or under your breast tissue. The implant is usually silicone and filled with either saline or silicone gel.
In autologous reconstruction, your tissue works to create a new breast. The most common type of autologous reconstruction is the latissimus dorsi flap, which uses tissue from your back to create a new breast. Other types of autologous reconstruction include the pedicled TRAM flap and the free TRAM flap.
Improving Your Self-Confidence
Having breast reconstruction after cancer can also improve your self-esteem. Many women feel self-conscious and anxious after a mastectomy. Breast reconstruction can help you feel like yourself again and boost your confidence.
After reconstruction, you may feel more comfortable in your skin and wear the clothes you want. You may also feel more confident in your relationships and social situations.
Giving You a Sense of Closure
Breast reconstruction after cancer can give some women a sense of closure. After a mastectomy, you may feel like you’re not finished with your cancer journey. Breast reconstruction can help you feel like you’ve put cancer in the past and that you’re moving on with your life.
If you’re considering breast reconstruction, talk to Dr. Andrew Trussler about your options and what you can expect. Give us a call at 512-450-1077.
