Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction. The goal is to restore one or both breast to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry following mastectomy. Breast reconstruction usually involves multiple procedures performed in stages. There are 2 broad categories of reconstruction options, implants or flap reconstruction. When the breast reconstruction process starts at the time of mastectomy it is referred to as immediate breast reconstruction. When breast reconstruction starts any time after the mastectomy it is referred to as delayed breast reconstruction. The type of mastectomy, the type of treatment for cancer (chemotherapy and radiation) can have a large effect on the outcome of the breast reconstruction. Prophylactic mastectomies refer to patients who choose to undergo mastectomies to reduce their risk for the development of breast cancer where there is a high rate of breast cancer in their family. This Harrisburg area patient is a 45 year old female with an C cup bra size who developed Right sided breast cancer. She did not receive radiation. She was treated with bilateral skin sparing mastectomies with delayed breast reconstruction via tissue expander placement under the pectoralis muscle. After 5 months of tissue expansion, her tissue expanders were exchanged for Mentor 600 cc High Profile Silicone Gel Implants ( C cup bra size ). Photos are 3 months after implants were placed.