Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a deeply personal decision, and understanding the full picture is essential before choosing to proceed. In this article, our specialists at Blooming explain the significant benefits of breast reconstruction, including improved body image, restored symmetry, and psychological wellbeing, as well as the practical considerations such as surgery duration, recovery, and the possibility of multiple procedures. We work closely with oncology teams and support every patient through this journey. This honest overview will help you feel more informed and empowered as you explore your options.
Breast reconstruction is not performed at Blooming, as the procedure is generally carried out for medical reasons. Our plastic surgeons, who also work in the hospital, are highly experienced in this field and are therefore happy to inform you about this procedure. The pros and cons of breast reconstruction give you a better understanding of what you can expect from the procedure. It is important that you make a well-considered decision and carefully weigh up the pros and cons of breast reconstruction for yourself.
- Breast reconstruction immediately or at a later stage
- Regaining your confidence
- Reimbursement by your health insurer
- Choice from various types of reconstruction
Immediate or Later Breast Reconstruction
There is no rush to make a decision about a potential breast reconstruction. If you are certain early on that you want a reconstruction, this can take place at the same time as the mastectomy. The immediate reconstruction has the advantage that the preserved skin can be used to cover the prosthesis. You may also choose to have the reconstruction performed at a later stage. We do advise you to wait until six months after the mastectomy. This gives your body sufficient time to recover. If you are to receive post-operative radiotherapy, we advise postponing the breast reconstruction until a later stage. Radiotherapy can cause additional scarring and pain. We therefore recommend waiting one year after radiotherapy before proceeding with the breast reconstruction.
Regaining Your Confidence
A mastectomy can affect your confidence and even impact your quality of life. By reconstructing a new breast, you have the opportunity to regain your confidence. It is important that you have realistic expectations about breast reconstruction. Your treating plastic surgeon will endeavour during the reconstruction to make the breast resemble the healthy breast as closely as possible in terms of shape and size. Please bear in mind that differences will always remain visible. Scars, for example, will always remain visible, and the sensation of the breast may also be different. Nevertheless, 99% of women who have undergone breast reconstruction are satisfied with the final result. They feel more confident and gradually regain their self-assurance.
Reimbursement by the Health Insurer
Breast reconstruction is not regarded as a cosmetic procedure, but as a treatment to restore the effects of a mastectomy. Breast reconstruction is therefore reimbursed by health insurers under the basic package. Please note that your own excess will need to be paid. To avoid surprises afterwards, you can consult your health insurer prior to the procedure. The insurer can tell you precisely whether you are eligible for reimbursement. On this basis, you can make an appointment at the plastic surgery outpatient clinic in the hospital for an initial consultation to discuss your wishes and the possibilities.
Choice of Various Types of Breast Reconstruction
A breast can be reconstructed in various ways. There are two main forms of breast reconstruction:
- Reconstruction using a breast prosthesis placed beneath the skin
- Reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue from the abdomen or back.