Top 4 Breast Reconstruction Questions Answered
Our breast reconstruction patients ask us many great questions, and we thought it would be helpful to gather them together for women wanting a concise rundown on the subject. So here are the top five questions we hear about breast reconstruction, with answers from Dr. Reedy, a trusted board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
1. What Do Reconstructed Breasts Look Like?
Breasts come in all shapes and sizes, and that goes for reconstructed breasts as well. The good news is this means that you can help with determining what your breasts will look like after reconstruction. Depending on your individual anatomy and unique goals, your surgeon will work with you to determine what techniques and options will best suit you. If implants are being placed, your final outcome will largely be shaped by your chosen implant size, profile, and material.
A good way to visualize your potential results is to view a board certified surgeon’s before and after photos of breast reconstruction or breast augmentation. Tip: Look for women with a similar body shape to yours. Many surgeons include information about a patient’s anatomy and chosen options in their before and after galleries.
2. How Long After Mastectomy Can I Get Reconstructive Surgery?
Reconstructive surgery can be done right after a mastectomy, sometimes during the same operation, while the patient is still under anesthesia. Immediate reconstruction often results in fewer surgeries, but can complicate recovery if additional radiation therapy is needed. Delayed breast reconstruction is a good choice if you may require continued radiation after mastectomy or would prefer to have time to recover emotionally and consider what you want from your reconstruction.
3. Will My Health Insurance Cover Reconstruction?
Group health plans, HMOs, and insurance companies that offer mastectomy coverage must cover reconstructive surgery under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act. To make sure you understand your options, it’s best to discuss coverage with your insurance company before scheduling surgery.
4. How Long Does Recovery Take?
There is no standard answer to this question, as there are many factors that will contribute to your individual recovery period. The type of reconstruction performed, when you have your reconstruction, and your body’s ability to heal can all affect recovery time. Although it may vary, you should expect to slowly begin resuming normal activity in two to three weeks after breast reconstruction. Most patients say they feel fairly “normal” within six weeks. Your surgeon should provide specific after-care and recovery instructions during your consultation.
Talk to us; we’d love to help answer your breast reconstruction questions.
Want to learn more about breast reconstruction surgery? Watch this video to hear Dr. Reedy discuss breast reconstruction and his goals when performing surgery. Dr. Reedy has many years of experience with breast reconstruction, and patients love our team and Dr. Reedy’s supportive style. See what our patients have to say about their breast reconstruction experience:
“Dr. Brian Reedy at Berks Plastic Surgery was exactly the kind of doctor I needed to help me through this whole experience. He is the kind of doctor that makes you feel comfortable at all times and tries to instill a positive mental attitude. He treats his patients with care and concern and makes you feel beautiful again. I would recommend him to any woman who may be going through the same process.” – Berks Plastic Surgery Breast Reconstruction Patient
“I couldn’t have picked a better doctor. Everyone was so nice and concerned and made me feel comfortable. Then there was Dr. Reedy. He was very professional and I realized very quickly that he was a perfectionist, which I appreciated. Thank you again for everything!” – Berks Plastic Surgery Breast Reconstruction Patient
We welcome you to give us a call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Reedy; we’re eager to help.
