4 Myths about Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a personal decision that each breast cancer patient must consider carefully. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation about when, why, and how to reconstruct the breasts after a mastectomy. If you have questions about breast reconstruction, talk to Dr. Brantner about what’s right for you. In the meantime, we’re debunking a few of the most common myths about breast reconstruction.

4 Myths about Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction must take place immediately after a mastectomy. There’s no right time for breast reconstruction. Many women choose reconstruction immediately after their mastectomy, while others wait to finish radiation treatments or until they’re sure reconstruction is right for them. Breast reconstruction can be effective years after a mastectomy.
Radiation or chemotherapy makes breast reconstruction impossible. Radiation affects blood circulation and the elasticity of the skin, while chemotherapy may affect the timeline of breast reconstruction. These treatments can limit reconstruction options, but in most cases, they don’t disqualify patients from breast reconstruction. If you’ve undergone (or are currently undergoing) radiation or chemotherapy treatments, discuss your breast reconstruction options with Dr. Brantner.
Unnatural looking implants are the only option. Women who choose breast reconstruction have a variety of options, ranging from breast implants to breast reconstruction using body tissue. Thanks to surgical advancements, both options can result in natural looking breasts that help cancer survivors reclaim their confidence and sense of femininity.
It’s harder to detect breast cancer after reconstruction. Detection of breast cancer relies on a variety of factors, none of which breast reconstruction has been proven to affect. Ask Dr. Brantner which screening techniques and breast exams are best for after your reconstruction.