The Breast Reconstruction Journey

While many women face the risk of losing one breast or both due to cancer, the advances in breast reconstruction continues to evolve. An important part of this is to also remember that breast reconstruction, despite which avenue taken, takes time and patience.

Sometimes, reconstruction can be started immediately following a mastectomy. While in other instances, there may be a delay due to cancer treatments or health issues which need to be resolved before reconstruction begins.

Despite the process, the reconstruction road is a great deal easier when there is a solid support system by a patient’s side. Additionally, a mixture of realism, patience, and determination will help carry patients to that finish line.

When teamed up with a plastic surgeon, they will help provide patients with a timeline. This is very important, as it keeps patients up-to-date with the progress and personal milestones.

“The biggest lesson for me as a physician is that breast reconstruction really is a journey,” said Dr. Bolitho a board certified plastic surgeon in San Diego and the current Chief of Plastic Surgery at Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla. “Although we may not have the perfect modality of reconstruction, one really has to have a relationship with a physician who can guide you through that process.”

There are various breast reconstruction modalities, such as:

1.      A flap technique may use the muscle, skin and fat on a patient to help create or cover a reconstructed breast.

2.      Different flap techniques for breast reconstruction are TRAM, DIEP, or SGAP

3.      Tissue expansion reconstruction offers an easier recovery process, but the reconstruction phase is generally longer.

“One modality may be better suited for a patient, while another type may not be as valid two or three years down the road,” Dr. Bolitho said.

In breast cancer reconstruction, Dr. Bolitho shared, if one modality does not fit a patient’s individual needs, invariably, another one will. There are always options.

Due to the information age of the Internet, patients are well-versed on reconstruction. From articles to online breast cancer support forums, women have more information and knowledge than ever before which gives them a sense of empowerment.

Breast reconstruction is not meant to be confused with breast augmentation. The goal of breast reconstruction is to recreate a breast.

“These two operations are clearly not similar and this is a misconception we sometimes run into.  I am always cautious of this because it sets the patient’s expectations a little higher than what can be delivered,” Dr. Bolitho said.

This is why, Dr. Bolitho explained, clear communication is so important.

For plastic surgeons, breast reconstruction is one of the most rewarding procedures. And for their patients, the last step in their breast cancer journey. 

The goal for every patient is to have a pure sense of trust and confidence in her plastic surgeon and their support staff. Breast reconstruction may be challenging at times and fueled with emotion.

Oftentimes, a patient will lean on their doctor and staff for guidance and support. Finding the right surgeon is imperative and makes all the difference in the world. 

“Above all, I think it’s important to utilize the resources available to you in terms of family members, friends and physicians so you know you are never alone,” Dr. Bolitho said.