Complicated: Pros: enhanced body image, decreased grief over loss of a body part/ sexual id, no need thereafter for mammograms of reconstructed breast, enhanced long term physical comfort & convenience (vs. external prosthesis), clothing fits, mastectomy usually avoids radiation cons: time and many dr visits, as w/ any surgery, can have complications, but usually minor/ manageable. No nipple sensation.
Answered 11/27/2017
4.5k views
A personal choice: Pursuing breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a personal decision that a plastic surgeon can help you make. Women that get reconstruction report feeling more feminine and report that it helps them get back to 'normal'. There are many options available for reconstruction including using implants or your own tissue. It's important to know that any route you go will involve multiple procedures.
Answered 3/15/2016
4.4k views
Beneficial: In short, breast reconstruction has been shown to have significant positive psychological effects. The only downside is that it requires surgery, which carries some risk. The advantages include improved self-esteem and quality of life. I recommend seeing a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery so they can discuss this with you in more more detail.
Answered 4/20/2015
3.2k views
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