There are many things to consider when learning about your diagnosis of breast cancer or when considering prophylactic mastectomy after BRCA testing. Women need to understand and research surgical options, chemotherapy and radiation. The quantity of information can be overwhelming while the complexity makes it difficult to comprehend. Reconstruction can be an important part of treatment, but with the onslaught of information the choices can be difficult to understand let alone make.
Patients will receive advice from their cancer surgeon, oncologist and radiation therapist about reconstruction options. And consultation with a plastic surgeon will help to clarify many issues. But many patients don't even hear about breast reconstruction using the DIEP, SIEA or TUG flap, and have to make their decision from information that is essentially incomplete.
Although not offered by many plastic surgeons, microsurgical reconstruction with these flaps can be an excellent choice. These procedures offer potential for:
Permanent results
Sparing of abdominal muscles
The aesthetic perk of a tummy tuck or inner thigh lift
Breasts that feel more soft and genuine than implants do
Breasts that look more natural than implants do
Unfortunately, not many surgeons perform these procedures or if they do, they perform them infrequently. You may be discouraged from seeking out microsurgical reconstruction because of this. Beware of advice that down plays the benefits of these reconstructions. Every technique has its advantages and disadvantages. You need to figure out which one is right for you.
Yes, there are many things to consider and no two patients are alike. Combining issues like chemotherapy and radiation with your particular history, physical health, body type and goals, makes it impossible to cover all the aspects and decision making possibilities in these pages. All these factors play a role in the choice, timing and outcome of reconstruction.