Understanding Post-Cancer Mastectomy Reconstruction: Crucial Information for Every Female Patient
In the bustling city of Delhi, women who have undergone a mastectomy or experienced significant breast trauma have a choice between two main types of breast reconstruction surgery: flap reconstruction and implant reconstruction. Each method offers unique advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to understand them before making an informed decision.
Flap Reconstruction
This method utilises the patient's own tissue, known as a flap, taken from areas such as the lower abdomen, buttocks, back, or thigh to rebuild the breast. Common types include DIEP flap, TRAM flap, Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap, IGAP, SGAP, PAP, TUG, and SIEA/SIEP flap.
Pros
- A natural look and feel since the breast is made from the patient’s own tissue.
- No risk of implant-related complications such as rupture or capsular contracture.
- Can provide better long-term results as the reconstructed breast ages naturally with the body.
Cons
- More complex surgery with a longer operating time.
- A longer recovery period due to the donor site.
- Potential complications at both the breast and donor site (infection, flap failure, scarring).
- Higher cost range approximately Rs 1,00,000 to Rs 5,00,000 in India.
Implant Reconstruction
This method uses silicone or saline implants to recreate the breast shape. It can be done at the time of mastectomy or in a delayed manner.
Pros
- Shorter surgery time and recovery compared to flap reconstruction.
- No additional scars or risk at donor sites.
- More widely available and typically lower cost.
Cons
- Implants may require replacement or revision surgery over time.
- Risk of implant-related complications such as rupture, infection, or capsular contracture.
- May not have as natural a feel or appearance as flap reconstruction.
It's important to note that breast reduction surgery and breast lift procedures are also available in Delhi for women looking to change breast size or shape, but these are typically separate from reconstruction after mastectomy.
Choosing the appropriate option depends on factors such as patient health, body type, previous treatments, desired outcome, and budget. Consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon in Delhi specialised in breast reconstruction is essential to assess the best tailored approach.
Notable plastic surgeons offering these procedures in Delhi include highly experienced practitioners like Dr. Sandeep Mehta, and clinics that provide detailed consultation to decide between flap or implant reconstruction based on individual cases.
In some instances, the TUG flap may be a good alternative when abdominal tissue isn't suitable for flap reconstruction. Interestingly, the most commonly chosen method for post breast cancer breast shaping surgery is implant-based reconstruction.
Regardless of the chosen method, it's crucial to remember that breast reconstruction surgery is not just about physical restoration but also emotional. It offers closure, confidence, and a chance to reclaim your body on your terms. At reputable clinics like RG Aesthetics, led by Dr. Rajat Gupta, breast reconstruction surgery is treated as a journey of restoration, prioritising comfort, aesthetics, and long-term wellness. Experienced teams provide dedicated post-op support, pain management, and physiotherapy to ensure the smoothest possible recovery after breast reconstruction surgery.
- In Delhi, women facing breast trauma or mastectomy can opt for flap reconstruction, which utilizes their own tissue from areas like the lower abdomen or buttocks to rebuild the breast.
- Flap reconstruction offers advantages such as a natural look and feel, lower risk of implant-related complications, and better long-term results.
- However, this method may involve more complex surgery, a longer recovery period, potential complications, and a higher cost range compared to implant reconstruction.
- Implant reconstruction uses silicone or saline implants to recreate breast shape, offering a shorter surgery time, no additional scars, and wider availability.
- Despite having risks of implant-related complications and a less natural feel compared to flap reconstruction, implant-based reconstruction is often the most chosen method for post breast cancer breast shaping surgery.
