Techniques Of Breast Reconstruction:

A breast reconstruction surgery is performed using one of three main techniques:

m Breast implants

m Tissue expansion

m Tissue reconstruction

Due to the complexity of the procedure neither of the breast reconstruction techniques related above can be completed in one operation. The main influencing factors for breast reconstruction involve the amount of breast tissue that has been removed during the mastectomy, the body size and the personal preferences of the patient.

Women who are heavy smokers, diabetics, obese and/or have had radiotherapy are completely unsuitable for a plastic surgery procedure like breast reconstruction. After a screening procedure, the plastic surgeon determines the breast reconstruction technique that is suitable for the patient.

While breast implants are preferred by most women due to the comparatively short procedure, tissue expansion is recommended by most plastic surgeons. It involves inserting an implant in the pectoral muscle which has been expanded deliberately for a period of time.

Tissue expansion is a gradual process and it can take several months to complete the procedure. Breast tissue reconstruction is the most complex procedure from the three reconstruction techniques and involves transferring a section of skin, muscle, fat and blood vessels from other parts of the body to the chest region.

Make sure your plastic surgeon informs you about the different techniques of breast reconstruction and discusses the one best suited for you. Visit the Plastic Surgery Institute of California for more help.