Breast reconstruction surgery is a significant step in the journey towards regaining confidence and feeling whole after mastectomy. However, sometimes the results may not meet expectations, leading to dissatisfaction and discomfort. It's crucial to address any pain after breast reconstruction promptly to explore corrective options so you can feel whole again.
For women considering prophylactic mastectomy with reconstruction, the decision often involves careful consideration of various factors, including the type of reconstruction. One increasingly popular option is DIEP flap reconstruction. DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap reconstruction is a type of autologous breast reconstruction that uses the patient's tissue from the lower abdomen to create a new breast mound. Unlike traditional implants, DIEP flap reconstruction offers several advantages, including a more natural look and feel, long-lasting results, and potential improvements in abdominal contour.
Receiving a positive BRCA mutation test result can be a life-altering moment for any woman. It's a juncture where decisions regarding proactive measures, such as prophylactic mastectomy, often come into focus. But what comes next after this critical discovery? It's essential to look into your available options, including natural tissue breast reconstruction, to make informed choices about your health and well-being.
This is a talk, delivered by Dr. Joshua L. Levine, that has traditionally been given by Kathy Steligo. It goes through the book she wrote called The Breast Reconstruction Guidebook, a very comprehensive and an excellent explanation of all of breast reconstruction options. We’ll be talking today about what is a mastectomy; what are the options after mastectomy; very briefly touch on no reconstruction, which is called going flat. Then, we’ll talk about the different options related to breast reconstruction, how to choose a plastic surgeon, and how to make some of these difficult decisions.
