I want to have breast reconstruction, but am concerned from the horror stories about silicone implants. what should i do?

Silicone is safe: There is no medical device that has been more intensively studied than silicone breast implants, and the fda has confirmed that they are safe and effective. Breast reconstruction with implants is very often the best choice for reconstruction, especially with increasing use of skin-nipple sparing mastectomy. Talk to a plastic surgeon before mastectomy if possible.

See plastic surgeon: Breast implants have been shown to be extremely safe. If you still have significant reservations about implants, you should talk to a plastic surgeon who is well versed in autologous reconstruction to see if tissue could be taken from your abdomen, inner thigh, or buttocks to reconstruct you breasts.

Talk with surgeon: I always encourage patients to trust their instincts. However you should always ask many questions and become as educated as you can regarding your surgery. If you still have reservations, i would go with your gut and avoid any potential problems. A good surgeon will always give you informed answer as well as the risks and benefits of any option.

Talk to you surgeon: Though silicone implants have been shown to be safe in multiple studies, if you are uncomfortable with the idea of silicone implants, i would suggest that you speak to your plastic surgeon about tissue reconstruction, either pedicled or free, as well as saline implants. There are other options for reconstruction other than implants.

Get informed: There are many options for breast reconstruction, with and without breast implants. And most of the horror stories you have heard are simply not true. Have a consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon and get the facts.

Read Below: There is no way to answer that in 400 characters. Please talk with a plastic surgeon. They will give you the best info on the current state of the art.

Older implant issues: Many of the "horror stories" are related to either older generations of implants that are no longer in use today, or to "junk science" popularized by the media. Present-day implants are safe, effective for their intended use, and any reputable abps-certified plastic surgeon can discuss these as well as other reconstructive options in detail. Don't fall for urban legends, even if seem reasonable!

Breast cancer: You should consider immediate breast reconstruction. You can find plastic surgeons in your area who perform reconstructions as well as those you breast surgeon should recommend. The forms of reconstruction after mastectomy are fat grafting with brava, single stage and two stage implant, flap surgery such the diep and and combination of these techniques.