Conservative approaches aren't always possible when treating breast cancer, and in these cases, a mastectomy may be recommended to protect your overall health. But you have options when it comes to breast reconstruction surgery, and one of these options is flap reconstruction or autologous tissue reconstruction. The procedure offers benefits over synthetic breast implants and if you would like to learn much more about flap reconstruction you can contact your local experts in Garden City, NY, and Trumbull, CT, Dr. Anke Ott Young, Dr. Mary Pronovost, and Dr. Christine Hodyl.
How It Works
A mastectomy is a breast cancer surgery that involves the entire removal of the breast tissue. It's performed when other treatments were not possible or viable and sometimes as a personal choice, often in cases of high cancer risk.
To restore the shape and size of the breast with flap reconstruction your surgeon uses donor tissue from other parts of your body. Whereas traditional implants often use silicone to reshape the breast.
Preparation
In order to prepare for the procedure you may be asked to modify some of your daily habits, some of these requests are not very different from those required for other surgeries. You will be asked to undergo a medical evaluation and will need lab testing. If you smoke, you'll be asked to stop prior to surgery, and there may be temporary changes to the medications you are currently taking, both prescribed and over the counter, but these are addressed on an individual basis.
Flap Reconstruction in Garden City, NY, and Trumbull, CT
The procedure offers benefits over traditional implants because it's your own tissue being used there is little to no risk of rejection, it's also a permanent procedure, as opposed to synthetic implants which eventually have to be replaced. The appearance and how the breasts feel will also typically be more natural than silicone.
But it's always important to have a discussion with your doctor about what your expectations and goals are, and they can recommend the best treatment for your needs, which could be flap reconstruction or something else.
If you are interested in exploring the benefits of flap reconstruction and live in or near the areas of Garden City, NY, and Trumbull, CT, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Ott Young, Dr. Pronovost, and Dr. Hodyl by dialing (516) 742-3404.