Breast reconstruction is a surgery typically performed after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Some women may have a new breast constructed using an implant to match the shape and size of their remaining breast, or they may use a flap of skin and tissues harvested from elsewhere in the body. However, some patients may need a total reconstruction of both breasts. While plastic surgeons often perform this procedure, Dr. Elijah Mobley, a general surgeon serving Victorville and Glendale, California, and the surrounding area, also provides consultations for this.
Choosing to have a breast reconstruction following mastectomy can be a very personal decision for most women. Their breasts are associated with their femininity and often with how they nourished their babies. Losing a breast can be a very saddening process that leaves a woman feeling like less of a woman than she once was. However, in some cases, breast reconstruction can be performed immediately following a mastectomy. For women who do not choose to have breast reconstruction until several months or even years following mastectomy, they will be pleased to know that this procedure can be performed at any time. Because Dr. Mobley performs both mastectomies and breast reconstruction, he is an excellent surgeon to consult in situations where lumpectomies or total mastectomies are recommended.
What to Expect from Reconstruction Surgery
Women considering breast reconstruction should have realistic expectations for the results of the procedure. They should know that while the breast can be made to look just like their former breast did complete with an areolar area; it will not have the same sense of touch or pressure as it once did. In addition, they should know that they will be able to see some of the healed incisions although most surgeons can hide many of the incisions. Finally, women who have breast reconstruction using a skin and tissue donation from their own body will have some scarring at this secondary site.
