18 Jan 2023
Breast Reconstruction Flap vs Implant
News
Breast reconstruction is a surgery to make the breasts look and feel as natural as possible after all or part has been removed. In fact, breast reconstruction after a mastectomy is recommended to achieve improved physical and psychosocial outcomes.
Flap reconstruction, silicone implants, and autologous tissues are three fundamental ways to reform breasts. Read further to understand which best suits you and make an informed decision about breast reconstruction surgery.
Breast Reconstruction Options
Dr Rory performs all the possible options for breast reconstruction. Breasts can be rebuilt using implants or autologous tissue. Sometimes, implants and autologous tissue are used together for the best possible results.
The breast reconstruction surgery can be performed at two stages for those considering mastectomy,
- Immediate breast reconstruction surgery is done at the time of the mastectomy for aligning the breasts.
- Delayed breast reconstruction surgery is done after the mastectomy incisions have recovered and breast cancer therapy is completed. This procedure can be done months after the mastectomy results have stabilised.
Here are some added procedures that may be done during breast reconstruction:
- The nipple and areola may be re-created on the reconstructed breast in the final stage of the procedure if they were not preserved during the mastectomy.
- Breast reconstruction surgery may include simultaneous surgery on the other breast to match both breasts’ size, shape, and symmetry.
Dr Rory customises the reconstruction for each patient based on their individual needs.
Breast Reconstruction: Flap vs Implant
Explore the two great options, flap and implant reconstruction, to select the right one for your breast reconstruction.
Flap or Autologous Reconstruction
Flap reconstruction is a tissue-based reconstruction procedure. It requires moving healthy live body tissues from one location on your body to another. For example, flap reconstruction may utilise the extra fat tissue from your abdomen, thigh, buttocks, or back and transplants it to the breasts.
Flap reconstruction surgeries require more effort, time, and a longer recovery. However, the benefit of using your tissue is that it offers a more natural feel to your breasts. It offers better outcomes over time if performed by a specialist like Dr Rory.
Implant Reconstruction
Implant reconstruction is a well-known technique to rebuild the breast with an implant. Dr Rory recommends silicone implant because it’s softer and feels like natural breasts.
Implant surgery is a two-step process: the first step expands the breast tissue to create room for the implant. Next, a tissue expander is inserted and filled with saline solution. This expander is kept for 6 to 8 weeks to stretch the tissues and check the size and shape of the breast. Placing the implant requires a lot of precision and discipline, therefore, choose your surgeon wisely.
Breast reconstruction surgery is life-changing as it helps regain confidence, look attractive, and feel younger. But if you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, be sure to choose an experienced surgeon for breast reconstruction in Dubai.