Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Information
In instances where breast cancer has grown too large in proportion to the breast to be removed via lumpectomy, the entire breast tissue must be removed in a procedure called a mastectomy. Following this procedure, women are faced with the psychological difficulty of no longer possessing an innate piece of their feminine persona. This impediment can be overcome utilizing one of the various types of reconstructive breast surgeries. If you decide to pursue reconstructive surgery, there are several questions you must consider beforehand:
- Does my health insurance cover breast reconstruction surgery?
- Am I risking a recurrence by having reconstructive surgery?
- Am I physically eligible for the surgery?
- What type of reconstruction should I pursue?
All types of breast reconstruction surgeries restore a feminine shape to the chest (sans nipples) and are grouped by their use of implants or muscle flap procedures (TRAM, DIEP). Your surgeon will direct you to the reconstruction type that fits you best based on your body type, personal preferences, and need for future breast treatment.
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In general, these surgeries can be performed in conjunction with a mastectomy. The advantages and disadvantages to having the procedure performed right away are outlined in the charts below.
Having reconstruction with mastectomy
| Pros | Cons |
| Avoid psychological trauma of lacking breasts | Medical factors (such as smoking) may limit your ability to undergo lengthy surgery |
| Having only one surgery and a quicker recovery period | Slightly higher wound healing problems |
| Reusing your breast skin allows the surgeon to achieve the best results with less scarring | Radiation treatment may cause complications with the reconstructed breast |
Waiting to have reconstructive surgery
| Pros | Cons |
| More time to consider your options | Extra skin is needed, which may lead to further scarring |
| Surgery time will be shorter. Less anesthetic and fewer wound complications. | Greater combined recovery time. |
| You may have to wait until your cancer treatments are completed before the surgery can be performed. |
Contact Our Lawyers to Learn More Information
Learn more about breast reconstruction by speaking with one of our experienced lawyers. We have handled cases involving DES and other defective drugs across the United States. Call us toll free to schedule a free, no-risk consultation at 888-564-9305.
