Before Breast Reconstruction

The decision to undergo breast reconstruction surgery is one that is extremely personal for many women. Breast reconstruction is a major surgery that is preceded by months, or sometimes even years of medical treatment for cancer. In order to receive the most out of the surgery, it is important to be well-prepared for both the procedure, and what will follow. It is important to explore all treatment options and work closely with a surgeon to ensure a satisfying outcome. Below are some guidelines for preparing before breast reconstruction surgery.

 

Deciding to Undergo Reconstructive Surgery

While advances in medicine have made it possible for women to reconstruct their breasts following mastectomy, the surgery is not necessarily right for everyone. It is important for patients to understand the scope of the procedure, and their reasons for receiving the surgery. If you choose to have breast reconstructive surgery performed, there are a number of important decisions to make, including:

• Choosing a Surgeon. Reconstructive surgery is unlike any other breast surgery. It is important to choose a surgeon who is equipped with the technical and aesthetic skills of this procedure.
• The Procedure Method. There are several different methods for breast reconstruction. Although some of the conditions of your health may dictate which methods you are a viable candidate for, it is important to understand your different treatment options.
• When You Will Undergo Treatment . In some instances patients may opt to receive reconstructive treatment immediately following mastectomy, other patients choose to wait for health or personal reasons.

Speaking to Your Surgeon

Conversations with your surgeon before breast reconstruction surgery are of the utmost importance. Among the important issues to discuss are:

• Treatment options specific to your body and tissue type, health, age, etc. The two major types of surgery are implant reconstruction and flap reconstruction. Flap reconstruction can include TRAM, DIEP, Gluteal, or latissimus dorsi.
• Your expectations regarding the outcome of surgery
• Risks and complications associated with surgery
• The specifics of treatment including anesthesia, procedure time, and recovery details
• The cost of surgery. Speak to your surgeon about financing if the procedure is not covered by your insurance plan.

The Days and Weeks Before Breast Reconstruction

After you have made the decision to undergo breast reconstruction surgery, it is important to prepare yourself both mentally and physically for surgery. Breast reconstruction often involves more than one surgical procedure and can be quite taxing. Following your surgeon’s pre-surgery instructions will help ensure that the entire process runs as smoothly as possible. This will include guidelines about consuming food, beverages, and medications. Patients should:

• Quit Smoking at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. Smoking constricts the blood vessels, depriving the tissues of nutrients and oxygen, and consequently delaying healing time.
• Reduce alcohol consumption, and avoid alcohol completely in the 24 hours prior to surgery
• Do not take vitamins, anti-inflammatory medications, or medications containing acetylsalicylic acid for 2 weeks prior to surgery
• Do not consume solid foods after midnight before surgery
• If you are feeling ill at any point during the week before surgery, contact your surgeon.

Your surgeon will provide more instructions that are specific to your health needs. It is also important to arrange care for yourself for the days after surgery when your activity will be significantly limited.

Many Patients Want to Know …

Is it better to receive surgery immediately after mastectomy?

When it comes to deciding when to undergo breast reconstructive surgery, there is no right or wrong answer. Some patients prefer to have adequate healing time following their mastectomy, while others prefer to combine the surgeries so that there is only one recovery period. Based on your health and other parts of your condition, your doctor may recommend a time for you to receive surgery. For information that may help you with your decision, learn more about the outcome of surgery.

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