When should you consider breast reconstruction?

Post-mastectomy: Almost every woman who needs a mastectomy is a potential candidate for the option of reconstruction. Studies show that most women who do not get a reconstruction at the same time of their mastectomy do not return for a "delayed" reconstruction. Therefore, i offer to almost all of my mastectomy patients the option of meeting with a plastic surgeon pre-operatively.

Before mastectomy: It is very important to have complete information about your reconstruction options before the mastectomy is done. In many cases an immediate reconstruction can be started or even completed in one stage at the time of the mastectomy. It is not suitable for every case but knowing your options can help you make the right decisions.

As soon as possible: I understand that receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is very difficult. That being said, as soon as you speak to your breast cancer surgeon, you should always inquire about the options for reconstruction, even if you are having breast conserving surgery. You may consider to have a procedure to match your other breast to the affected side.

As soon as diagnosed: Though hearing a breast cancer diagnosis is difficult and overwhelming, it is important to know your options both for cancer treatment and reconstruction. That way you can make a good decision as to what to do.

Decreases adverse : Psychological reaction secondary to grief reaction caused by loss of body part & best clinical results when 1st stage done concommitantly w mastectomy( plus saves 1 trip to or) if mastectomy is chosen, bilateral mastectomy & reconstruction is always a good choice in my opinion because aesthetic results are better & there is some protection from future new breast cancers.

Earlier....: Earlier surgery in patients with small cancers leads to better results in general.

Timing : Timing is everything. I attend meeting every week with breast specialists to discuss options. If you are having a mastectomy you should see a plastic surgeon. Having reconstruction at the same time is the majority of my patients choice. I work closely with breast surgeons to accommodate the scheduling of these cases. Good luck.

Timing for BR: Will depend on the postoperative plan. If you will need radiation it might be better to wait although more and more we are trying to speed up the process by addressing the breast reconstruction at the time of mastectomy (immediate). This will be the preferred time as you save time and risks of added surgery.