Breast reconstruction is a plastic surgery procedure to rebuild the shape of the breast after surgical removal of the whole breast.
Is reconstruction right for you?
Deciding whether or not to have breast reconstruction is a very personal choice. There is no right or wrong choice.
Carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of choosing breast reconstruction before making your decision. Talking to other women who have had breast reconstruction can be helpful.
Discussing reconstruction with your surgeon
If you are considering breast reconstruction, discuss with your surgeon before removing your healthy breast. Your surgeon may refer you to an oncoplastic breast surgeon (trained in breast reconstruction) or a plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
When is reconstruction done?
You may choose to have breast reconstruction, either at the same time as the removal of your healthy breast (immediate reconstruction) or at a later time (delayed reconstruction).
What to expect?
- The rebuilt breast will not look, feel or move like your original one
- You may lose the ability to feel sexual sensations in the rebuilt breast 21
- You will not be able to breastfeed with a rebuilt breast.
Can reconstruction make breast cancer come back?
If you had breast cancer before, having a reconstruction will not increase the chance of the cancer coming back.42,43 If the cancer does come back, having a reconstruction should not cause problems finding the cancer or treating it. 43
