Breast Reconstruction After Lumpectomy

A lumpectomy which is sometimes referred to as breast conservation surgery is the most common type of breast cancer surgery currently performed. The greatest benefit of the surgery is that only a partial amount of the breast is removed, but as a result the physical appearance of the breast is likely to be disfigured, dented, and uneven. According to recent article “although breast conversation therapies are a huge advance in the treatment of breast cancer, women are still concerned about how their breast will look after surgery,” said Sumner Slavin, MD, ASPS Member and report co-author. “Breast conservation surgery or lumpectomy can mean many things; a biopsy, partial mastectomy, wedge resection, or having a quarter of the breast taken. Women are often left with portions of their breasts removed and there are currently no implants that can address this unique cosmetic issue.” Following lumpectomy or breast conservation surgery, plastic surgeons are now using fat grafting for immediate reconstruction of the breast. Other promising advances include nipple sparing mastectomy, deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps and acellular dermis graft slings. These are options for women who will need a full mastectomy and young women who opt for preventative mastectomy because of a strong family history of breast cancer. “Many women don’t know the full scope of their reconstructive options or are intimidated to ask,” said Dr. Slavin. “For breast cancer patients, even though they are living through the anguish of cancer, there are reconstructive procedures that will improve their quality of life and reduce the negative long-term impact of the disease and its treatment.” Dr. Seify encourages his patients to actively participate in gaining new knowledge concerning not only their breast cancer treatment but also their breast reconstruction options. Every patient is different and breast reconstruction options are heavily dependent upon many different factors. These factors include but are not limited to the health of the patient, the age of the patient, the breast cancer diagnosis, proportionate weight of the patient, patient desires and many more. It is critical the patients maintain a healthy positive attitude concerning their diagnosis as well as their prognosis. This helps patients to make effective long-term decisions without compromising their long-term results. Dr. Seify and his staff are committed to working closely with each patient to navigate the breast reconstruction experience that can be sometimes intimidating. Patients who are diagnosed with breast cancer and considering breast reconstruction are encouraged to contact Dr. Seify and schedule a consultation.