Immediate Breast Reconstruction
When women undergo breast reconstruction surgery at the same time as their lumpectomy or mastectomy this is known as immediate breast reconstruction. If you choose immediate breast reconstruction, Dr. Ravi Tandon will work closely with your breast cancer surgeon to coordinate the two surgeries. During your consultation at Tandon Plastic Surgery in Metairie, LA, Dr. Tandon will review the surgical options available for immediate breast reconstruction, including the use of natural tissue or breast implants. Dr. Tandon is a compassionate surgeon, committed to helping women restore their breast and achieve an attractive, natural look and feel.
About Immediate Breast Reconstruction
When planning an immediate reconstruction, your plastic surgeon and breast cancer surgeon work together to streamline the treatment process. After your breast cancer surgeon has removed the cancerous tissue, the plastic surgeon will then begin the process of reconstructing your breasts. If you are a good candidate for natural-tissue reconstruction, likely donor sites on your body may include your back, stomach, buttocks, or thighs. Women who are concerned about scarring on areas of the body and would prefer a shorter recovery time may opt for breast implants instead.
When Is Immediate Reconstruction Recommended?
At Tandon Plastic Surgery, we highly recommend immediate reconstruction. However, there are instances when it is preferred or required to delay reconstruction. Immediate reconstruction is best suited for instances when the patient will not need to undergo chemotherapy or radiation once surgery is complete. For instance, radiation therapy can have negative effects on a reconstructed breast, such as reduced chances for success and extended healing and scarring timelines.
When breast cancer is detected and treated in its earliest stages, the need for ongoing radiation treatment after cancer surgery is reduced. However, if your cancer progressed to stage three and beyond, you may likely need additional radiation therapy, making it best to delay reconstruction until your oncologist says otherwise.
What Are the Benefits of Immediate Over Delayed Reconstruction?
When considering immediate vs. delayed reconstruction, women often prefer immediate breast reconstruction since it allows them to eliminate cancer and restore their breast during the same procedure. Beating cancer is a great feeling, but the appearance of breasts after a mastectomy or lumpectomy can weigh heavily on a woman’s mind. Aside from cosmetic reasons, streamlining the surgery reduces how many additional surgeries you may need. This also reduces your long-term medical costs.
Women often prefer immediate reconstruction since it eliminates cancer and restores the breast at the same time.
Additionally, immediate breast reconstruction creates less scarring, which contributes to a better overall appearance. During an immediate breast reconstruction, Dr. Tandon is better able to preserve the original natural shape of the breast to ensure symmetry. This may also help to reduce the number of surgeries you may need later on to achieve the look you want.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Ravi Tandon understands your concerns about breast cancer and breast reconstruction. Along with his compassionate nature, Dr. Tandon completed a prestigious reconstructive microsurgery fellowship at New York University Medical Center to better serve his patients. To schedule your appointment, or consult with Dr. Tandon about immediate breast reconstruction, send us a message or call (504) 455-1000.
