Comprehensive Guide for Women: Understanding Breast Reconstruction Surgery Post-Breast Cancer
In Delhi, India, two common types of breast reconstruction surgery are available - implant reconstruction and flap reconstruction. These procedures are designed to restore the shape, appearance, and contour of a breast after a mastectomy or significant breast trauma.
Flap Reconstruction
Flap reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue from areas like the lower abdomen, buttocks, back, or thigh to create a new breast. Common types include DIEP flap, TRAM flap, Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap, and others. This method results in a more natural breast appearance and feel, as it uses real tissue. However, it is a more complex surgery with longer operation and recovery times, and may lead to donor site complications.
The cost of flap reconstruction in Delhi usually ranges from Rs 100,000 to Rs 500,000. Experienced plastic surgeons like Dr. Preeti Pandya offer personalized care using advanced techniques in breast reconstruction, balancing aesthetics and patient safety.
Pros of Flap Reconstruction: - More natural breast appearance and feel - Can be more durable over time compared to implants - Avoids risks related to implants like rupture or capsular contracture
Cons: - More complex surgery with longer operation and recovery times - Potential for donor site complications - Requires microsurgical expertise
Implant Reconstruction
Implant reconstruction uses silicone or saline implants to recreate the breast shape. It is less invasive and often involves a shorter hospital stay and recovery. However, implants may require replacement over time, and there are risks such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, and infection.
Pros of Implant Reconstruction: - Less extensive surgery - Shorter recovery time - No donor site morbidity
Cons: - Implants may require replacement over time - Risks include implant rupture, capsular contracture, and infection - May look less natural compared to flap reconstruction
The choice between flap and implant reconstruction depends on various factors, including patient factors, surgeon expertise, cost, and recovery considerations. Flap methods are favored for natural results and durability, while implants offer a less invasive option with quicker recovery but possible long-term implant-related issues.
At RG Aesthetics, led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rajat Gupta, breast reconstruction surgery is treated as a journey of restoration. Symmetrisation procedures like mastopexy (breast lift), reduction, or augmentation may also be necessary for balance. When only one breast is reconstructed, the natural breast may need shaping for balance.
Nipple and areola reconstruction is often done several months after the main reconstruction. Common flap options at Excel Hospital include DIEP Flap, TRAM Flap, TUG Flap, and Latissimus Dorsi Flap. TUG flap is a great alternative when abdominal tissue isn't suitable.
In immediate reconstruction, the procedure takes place during the mastectomy itself, while delayed reconstruction is chosen when cancer treatments are the immediate focus. Microsurgery teams specialize in life-changing flap reconstruction procedures.
[1] Cost of Breast Reconstruction in Delhi, India: https://www.medigo.com/cost-of-breast-reconstruction-in-delhi-india [3] Dr. Preeti Pandya: https://www.drpreetipandya.com/
- Dr. Preeti Pandya, an experienced plastic surgeon in Delhi, India, employs advanced techniques in breast reconstruction to ensure both aesthetics and patient safety, especially in flap reconstruction where real tissue is used to create a new breast.
- Breast cancer survivors in India often consider reconstructive plastic surgery following a mastectomy or significant breast trauma, and one common approach is aesthetic surgery, which encompasses both flap and implant reconstruction.
- The health and wellness of women, particularly breast cancer survivors, can greatly benefit from medical-conditions-related advancements in reconstructive plastic surgery like flap reconstruction, which uses the patient's own tissue to reconstruct the breast.
- Plastic surgeons like Dr. Rajat Gupta at RG Aesthetics provide a restorative approach to breast reconstruction, not only focusing on recreating the breast shape but also ensuring balance between both breasts through symmetrisation procedures such as mastopexy, reduction, or augmentation.
- Cancers, particularly breast cancer, lead to the removal of the breast, a traumatic experience that can be mitigated by reconstructive plastic surgery methods like flap reconstruction, which utilizes microsurgery for life-changing results.
