Breast reconstructive surgery poses a transformative option for patients who have undergone a mastectomy or experienced significant breast tissue loss due to injury or congenital anomalies. Breast reconstructive surgery is a medical procedure that aims to restore the shape and appearance of the breasts using a combination of techniques. Beyond restoring the physical appearance of the breasts, this procedure can have numerous lifestyle, psychological, and emotional benefits. Choosing breast reconstructive surgery is a complex, multidimensional decision, and Cutting Edge Surgery Toowoomba provides holistic patient education for informed decision-making. There are many reasons women choose breast reconstructive surgery, and we’ve summarised some of these considerations below.
Restored Symmetry of Size and Shape
Breast reconstruction – sometimes performed with a breast lift – allows for greater symmetry in the size and shape of breasts, resulting in a more balanced appearance. This can significantly impact an individual’s confidence in their skin.
No Need for External Prosthesis
The use of external breast prosthetics can be cumbersome and emotionally challenging for many individuals. Breast reconstruction eliminates the need for external devices, freeing patients from worrying about the prosthesis being noticeable or causing discomfort.
Permanent Breast Shape
One of the most significant advantages of breast reconstructive surgery is establishing a permanent breast shape. Unlike external prosthetics, which may shift, cause discomfort, or require regular adjustments, reconstructed breasts remain in place. This permanence gives patients peace of mind and convenience in their daily lives.
More Balanced Appearance When Wearing a Bra or Swimwear
After a mastectomy, achieving balance between the breasts can be challenging, leading to discomfort, frustration, or self-consciousness while wearing bras or swimwear. Breast reconstructive procedures recreate the breast’s shape and size, providing better comfort and security in various bras and swimming suits.
Clothes Fit Better
With breast reconstruction, individuals can bid farewell to the struggles of finding clothes that fit well. Uneven breasts can cause clothing to hang unevenly or create bulges in certain areas, making it challenging to find flattering garments and necessitating specialised clothing. Reconstructive surgery helps create a more uniform chest contour, resulting in better-fitting clothing across a broad range of clothing styles.
Greater Confidence and Improved Emotional Well-Being
Breast reconstructive surgery can have a profound impact on a person’s self-confidence and emotional well-being. Restoring the breasts can help individuals feel more at ease with their bodies, positively influencing personal relationships, social interactions, and quality of life.
Enhanced Intimacy
Some women find that restored breasts can positively impact intimacy, fostering confidence, comfort, and pleasure in intimate situations.
Sense of Closure
Breast reconstruction can bring cancer survivors a sense of closure and completion to their treatment journey.
Performed Simultaneously or Later
The timing of breast reconstructive surgery is flexible, offering patients different options based on their unique circumstances and preferences. Some individuals choose to undergo reconstruction simultaneously with a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction), while others may opt for delayed reconstruction after completing cancer treatments. Discussing these choices with a medical team can help determine the most suitable approach.
Breast reconstructive surgery offers a host of physical and lifestyle benefits. From increased confidence and emotional well-being to improved clothing choices, choosing breast reconstruction surgery can be a life-altering decision. By offering restored symmetry, balance, and a permanent solution, this transformative procedure empowers women to embrace their bodies and practice body autonomy.
If you are considering breast reconstructive surgery, consult with one of our highly qualified and experienced surgeons to explore the best approach for your specific needs and goals. Dr Nasrin Davarpanah has a special interest and advanced training in breast surgery and provides evidence-based, compassionate care. Contact Cutting Edge Surgery today for more information about breast reconstructive surgery.