Surgery For Breast Cancer

The following information is based on material from the American Cancer Society

After having a mastectomy (or some breast-conserving surgeries), you may want to consider having the breast mound rebuilt. This is called breast reconstruction.  

The purpose of breast reconstruction is restore the breast's appearance after surgery, not to treat the cancer. 

There are several types of  surgery in which a breast is reconstructed. Some use saline (salt water) or silicone implants, while others use tissues from other parts of your body (autologous tissue reconstruction). For a discussion of the different reconstruction options, see the American Cancer Society document, Breast Reconstruction  After Mastectomy. 

If you are going to have breast surgery and are thinking about having reconstruction: 

• Before having surgery, consult with a plastic surgeon who is an expert in breast reconstruction.
• You may also find it helpful to talk with a woman who has had the type of reconstruction you might be considering. Your doctor’s staff or American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery volunteers can help you make a connection.

Keep in mind that:

• Decisions about the type of reconstruction and when it will be done is up to you, the patient. Decisions generally depend on your medical situation and personal preferences.
• There is likely a choice between having a breast reconstructed at the same time as the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later time (delayed reconstruction).

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