Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction in Bangkok, Thailand

What is breast reconstruction surgery?

        Breast reconstruction surgery is a surgical procedure that aims to rebuild the shape and appearance of a breast after a mastectomy (removal of the breast) or lumpectomy (removal of a portion of the breast). The goal of the surgery is to restore the natural shape and size of the breast, as well as the nipple and areola (the dark area around the nipple).

        There are several different techniques that can be used for breast reconstruction surgery, including using a breast implant, using tissue from another part of the body (such as the abdomen or back), or a combination of both. The type of reconstruction that is best for a particular patient will depend on factors such as the patient's overall health, the size and shape of the breast, and the patient's preferences.

        Breast reconstruction surgery can be done at the same time as the mastectomy or lumpectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later date (delayed reconstruction). Many women choose to have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy to improve their body image and self-esteem, but it's not necessary for everyone. Some women choose not to have the surgery, while others may not be good candidates due to health or other factors. It's important for women to discuss the pros and cons of breast reconstruction with their surgeons and make the decision that is best for them.

A good candidate for breast reconstruction

1. The patient must have completed the therapy for breast cancer
2. The patient needs to revise the breast scar that causes a burn or accident.
3. No previous radiation on the breast areas
4. Stop smoking
5. No active connective tissue diseases such as SLE, Rheumatoid disease, and scleroderma              

Kamol Cosmetic Hospital offers two main options for breast reconstruction

1. Reconstruction with implants: the surgeon uses silicone gel or saline-filled prosthesis inserted inside the cavity under the muscle. In the case of fragile skin and scarring, the surgeon may use a tissue expander technique before inserting the implants.
2. Reconstruction with flaps: Kamol Cosmetic Hospital offers a variety of flaps for breast reconstruction as follows:
   1. TRAM flap (Transverse rectus abdominis muscle flap): the surgeon uses the skin, parts of the rectus muscle, and fat below the umbilicus with the vascular pedicle Then, it moves to the breast area. This technique is the most reliable, but the patient will lose parts of the rectus muscle and might have a weakness in the abdominal wall.
      
   2. DIEP flap (Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap): the surgeon uses skin and fat without muscle then moves to the breast area with a microsurgery technique. This method can preserve the abdominal muscle function but takes risks of vessel thrombosis with microsurgery.
      
   3. Other flaps such as LD-flap (latissimus dorsi flap) may be used as an alternative flap depending on the patient's preference and other limitations.

Preparation for breast reconstruction

• Consult with the surgeon about your goals, lab test, and medical evaluation
• Stop smoking at least two weeks before and after surgery
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements that may increase bleeding

Postoperative care for Breast reconstruction.

1. Reconstruction with implantation
   1. Keep bandage for 7^th days after surgery
   2. Remove stitches at 7^th day
   3. The patient may need breast massage depends on the type and shape of the implants.
   4. The nipple and areola reconstruction can be reconstructed at the second stage.
2. Reconstruction with flaps, the patient needs more specialized care.
   1. In the case of pedicled TRAM-flap is used, the patient needs to keep light activity for at least two weeks after surgery.
   2. For DIEP flap with microsurgery technique, the patient needs hospitalization for at least seven days and limited activity for four weeks.

Risks and complications

1. Flap loss: Basically, the surgeon will use the most reliable flap for each patient. However, in some situations and individualize, the patient might have poor wound healing and deficiency blood supply due to the previous treatment.
2. Delayed wound healing: mostly occurred in case of fragile skin
3. Loss of breast sensation
4. Bleeding, hematoma, and seroma
5. Surgical wound infection
6. Abdominal wall weakness/Loss of sensation at the donor site
7. Unfavorable results: the patient might notice the unequal, symmetry, or unnatural look of the new breast, particularly in flap reconstruction.

Recovery

          The recovery of breast reconstruction varies depending on the surgical technique performed.

1.  The patient who has reconstruction with the implants needs two weeks for the recovery time
2. In the case of using a tissue expander, the patient needs to expand the pocket by gradually increasing the volume for about 4-6 weeks before inserting the implants. The patient will need to stay longer than simple implantation.         
3. The patient who has undergone reconstruction with flap needs to stay for the recovery around 2-4 weeks.
4. The patient who has undergone with flap technique needs to wait for 6-12 months to have secondary nipple-areola reconstruction.

How to recover from Cancer related breast reconstruction surgery?

Recovering from cancer-related breast reconstruction surgery can take several months. The specific recovery process will depend on the type of surgery you had, but generally, it's important to follow your surgeon's instructions for post-operative care, which may include:

• Resting and limiting physical activity: You may need to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks after surgery.
• Incision care: Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to care for your incisions, which may include keeping them clean and dry, and changing bandages as directed.
• Pain management: You may experience some pain and discomfort after surgery, and your surgeon may prescribe medication to help manage it.
• Monitoring for complications: It's important to monitor for signs of infection, bleeding, or other complications, and to contact your surgeon if you notice anything unusual.

You may also need to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and address any issues that may arise. Additionally, it's important to take care of your overall health by eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Physical therapy or occupational therapy may be recommended to help restore range of motion, strength, and function.

It's also important to seek out support from friends and family, as well as professional support groups, to help cope with the physical and emotional effects of breast cancer surgery.

See more

Getting to Know for Breast Reconstruction

What to expect from breast reconstruction surgery

The goal of the surgery is to recreate the appearance of a natural breast using either...

Risks and Complications for Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a safe surgical procedure, but like any surgical...

The timeline for breast reconstruction surgery

Breast reconstruction surgery is typically divided into two stages: the initial reconstruction,...

See more

How can Kamol Cosmetic Hospital assist you in obtaining attractive breasts following Cancer Related Breast Reconstruction?

        Kamol Cosmetic Hospital is a specialized facility offering a range of cosmetic surgery services, including breast reconstruction after cancer treatment. The hospital has a team of experienced and skilled plastic surgeons who use advanced surgical techniques to help women achieve a more aesthetically pleasing appearance after undergoing mastectomy or lumpectomy.

Breast reconstruction after cancer is a multi-step process that can involve one or several surgeries and may take several months to complete.

"The reconstruction process is personalized to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient. The surgeons at Kamol Cosmetic Hospital work closely with patients to determine the best approach to achieve their desired results."

One of the most popular breast reconstruction techniques offered at Kamol Cosmetic Hospital is implant-based reconstruction. This involves placing a breast implant in the breast to restore its shape and volume.

In addition to breast reconstruction, Kamol Cosmetic Hospital also offers a range of breast enhancement procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and reduction. These procedures can help women achieve their desired breast shape and size and enhance their overall self-confidence and body image.

In conclusion,

Kamol Cosmetic Hospital can help you achieve beautiful breasts after cancer-related breast reconstruction by offering a range of advanced surgical techniques and a personalized approach to care. The hospital's team of experienced plastic surgeons will work with you to determine the best approach to meet your unique needs and goals and help you achieve a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.