Losing a breast is a difficult experience, but it does not have to be permanent. If you have lost a breast to cancer or other causes, breast reconstruction in Stockton may provide a way to restore your look and help you regain confidence in your body and yourself.
Many women may need a mastectomy because they have been diagnosed with breast cancer or are at a very high risk of developing breast cancer. Often, the treatment for breast cancer requires the removal of one or both of the breast mounds. While this procedure can be life-saving, for many women it comes with a high price. An important part of the road to recovery, and an option suitable for many mastectomy patients, is breast reconstruction.
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that attempts to restore the natural shape and appearance of breasts that have undergone mastectomy. The procedure may deal with one or both breast mounds, depending on the specifics of the mastectomy. One of the most important aspects of breast reconstruction is that the procedure is highly individualized to meet the needs and concerns of the patient.
The results of the procedure are variable. Reconstructed breasts will not feel the same as the natural breast, and there will be visible surgical marks. Ideally, candidates for breast reconstruction should be in a good place with their diagnosis and treatment. They should not have additional medical issues that may complicate healing. It is also critical for patients to have realistic goals and a positive outlook on their body image.
One of the key considerations of breast reconstruction is the timing of the procedure. Generally, a procedure can begin at the same time as the mastectomy or may be delayed until after the patient recovers from breast cancer treatments.
There are a number of reasons why patients may choose one option over the other. Some may want to delay the procedure because they are not emotionally ready for reconstruction surgery, while others may want some of the options available for a procedure performed during the mastectomy. Breast reconstruction performed at the same time as a mastectomy can often yield results that appear more natural.
In recent years, breast cancer researchers have made huge advances in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and reconstruction. Dr. Kludt has been trained in the most current and advanced techniques for reconstructing defects after breast conservation therapy or mastectomy. In general, breast reconstruction is divided into two categories: alloplastic, or the use of tissue expanders and permanent breast implants; and autologous, using tissue from elsewhere on the body. To reconstruct both the breast and nipple-areolar complex to best match the size and shape of the unaffected breast, most reconstructive plans involve a staged approach.
Dr. Kludt has a special interest in helping women through the breast reconstruction process, and will work closely with you and your medical team to achieve a successful outcome. There are numerous methods for breast reconstruction, and Dr. Kludt will guide you through the decision-making process to find the right solution for you.
