Breast Reconstruction - Main Questions
- Clínica Fabio Carramaschi
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
Breast removal for cancer is a life-saving procedure, but it can also be physically and psychologically traumatic for women. Fortunately, there are ways to reconstruct the breast, restoring its shape, the patient's self-esteem, and her quality of life.
What is breast reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a surgery performed after a mastectomy, a surgical procedure that removes one or both breasts. Removal can be partial, when only a portion is removed, or total, when the entire breast is removed. Partial or total removal depends on the size of the tumor being treated. With breast reconstruction, the patient's breast shape and volume are restored, as well as self-esteem and social life.
Immediate and delayed restoration
There are two stages in which breast reconstruction surgery can be performed. Immediate breast reconstruction (preferred by specialists) is performed immediately by the plastic surgeon after the breast surgeon has removed the tumor. Delayed breast reconstruction is performed after some time has passed since breast removal. It is recommended for cases where immediate reconstruction is prevented by some other condition, such as tumor size or the patient's overall clinical condition.
What about breast sensitivity?
Breast sensitivity after removal depends largely on the type of tumor removed. When the breast is completely removed, sensitivity is significantly reduced, especially in the areola area. In cases of partial removal, sensitivity may decrease, but it can recover after a few months.
Does surgery leave a scar?
Yes. Like all plastic surgery, the procedure leaves a scar, but this also depends on the reconstruction and the tumor that was removed. Typically, the scar left by the procedure is similar to a breast reduction, the so-called "inverted T."
Where is the surgery performed?
Surgery, both removal and reconstruction, is always performed in a hospital. In some cases, removal requires an areola tattoo, which can be done in a specialist's office.
What is post-operative recovery like?
The postoperative period is very similar to that of breast implant surgery. A balanced diet and progressively increased physical activity are recommended. In some cases, anticoagulants and medications such as antibiotics and painkillers may be prescribed. Another common recommendation is to avoid sleeping on your side for at least two weeks. However, it's important to remember that these recommendations should be made by the attending physician during the consultation.
Pay attention! What should you ask your plastic surgeon?
How will the reconstruction be done?
Will prosthetics or tissue from the body itself be used?
Will you need a second procedure?
What can affect the outcome of reconstruction?
Will it be the same as it was before?
Is there any indication to remove the breast on the other side?
Finally, what are the benefits of breast reconstruction?
To schedule an appointment with one of our specialists or to ask any questions regarding the procedure, contact us via WhatsApp (11) 94719 – 6082 .
