Breast reconstruction / breast reconstruction
A breast cancer diagnosis or early detection of breast cancer are often the reason why it becomes necessary to remove parts of the breast, the whole breast or even both breasts. Accidents can also mean that breast tissue has to be irreversibly removed. Many affected women would like to regain their sense of femininity following their serious illness and would like a breast reconstruction. This is where reconstructive breast surgery comes into play, with the aim of restoring shape, size and symmetry in order to regain a sense of aesthetic well-being.
Which techniques are used in breast reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a highly individualised surgical procedure that depends on the findings. This can involve local flap surgery, reconstruction with an expander and then with an implant, as well as a Reconstruction with autologous fat can be used. A nipple reconstruction (reconstruction of the nipple complex, nipple-areola complex) may also be necessary, either frequently or on its own. Here we offer various techniques that allow an extremely lifelike reconstruction.
Brief overview:
Duration of treatment:
1-2 hours
Anaesthesia:
General anaesthesia
Follow-up treatment:
Wearing a special bra and chest strap
Load restrictions:
1-2 weeks; no heavy work or sporting activities for up to 6 weeks
Associated terms:
Breast augmentation, breast surgery with silicone implants, breast enlargement
How is breast reconstruction performed?
How breast reconstruction is performed depends very much on the technique chosen. Nevertheless, all operations in this area are performed on an outpatient basis and under general anaesthetic. Depending on the technique and findings, the procedure takes approx. 1 - 2 hours. If an expander has to be inserted to pre-stretch the breast tissue before an implant is inserted, two operations are necessary several months apart.
What needs to be considered after breast reconstruction?
If wound drains were inserted during the operation, these can usually be removed after 1-2 days. Suture material is removed after 2 weeks.
To support the breast shape during the healing phase, we recommend wearing a compression bra day and night for a period of 6 weeks. In addition, it may be necessary to wear a chest strap for at least 14 days to prevent the implants from slipping or twisting. You should also not sleep on your stomach for the first two weeks.
In general, you will be largely symptom-free again after just a few days and, depending on the activity, will be able to work after 1-2 weeks. If there are no complications, you should only resume sports training, lifting loads and overhead work after approx. 6 weeks.
The final result is usually seen after 3-6 months.
To help the scars heal, you can treat them with a moisturising cream. Also protect them from direct sunlight to avoid hyperpigmentation.
Frequently asked questions and answers about breast reconstruction
In a personal and individual consultation, we will be happy to analyse your wishes and expectations and discuss in detail the realistic results to be expected, conceivable risks and any possible complications in order to design a treatment concept that is right for you.