Breast Reconstruction – Bursa Breast Reconstruction
Breast Reconstruction – Bursa Breast reconstruction, or breast repair as it is medically known, is a surgical procedure performed to recreate the breast in individuals who have had their breasts removed or damaged due to reasons such as breast cancer treatment or trauma. In addition to restoring aesthetic appearance, it greatly contributes to the psychological and emotional well-being of patients.
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is the surgical reconstruction of part or all of the breast. It is often preferred after a mastectomy (removal of the breast). The reconstruction procedure is planned taking into account the shape, volume, symmetry, and nipple/aesthetic details of the breast.
Why is it done?
– If a breast has been removed due to breast cancer
– If breast deformity has occurred as a result of traumatic injuries
– If there is no congenital breast development (such as in Poland Syndrome)
– If aesthetic problems occurred in previous surgeries
– The surgery aims to strengthen a person’s self-confidence and body image not only physically but also psychologically.
When can it be done?
a. Immediate Reconstruction (Instant Repair):
It is a repair performed simultaneously with a mastectomy. It is psychologically easier and can be completed in a single operation.
b. Delayed Reconstruction:
This procedure is performed several months or years after the completion of additional treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy. This method is preferred, especially in advanced-stage cancers.
Breast Reconstruction Methods
Breast reconstruction is performed using two main methods:
A. Prosthetic (Implant) Based Reconstruction
– Silicone or saline (salt water) filled prostheses are used. They are usually placed under the skin and muscle.
Stages:
– A tissue expander is inserted.
– The skin is stretched by injecting serum over time.
– A permanent prosthesis is placed in the enlarged area.
Advantages:
Shorter surgery time.
Easy technique
Disadvantages:
– Risk of foreign body (infection, capsule contracture)
– Patients who have received radiotherapy may have weakened tissue.
B. Autologous Tissue Reconstruction (Tissue Taken from the Own Body)
Breast reconstruction is performed using tissue (skin, muscle, fat) taken from the patient’s abdomen, back, thigh, or buttocks.
The most common autologous methods are:
– TRAM Flap: Tissue is taken from the abdominal muscle.
– DIEP Flap: Fat and skin taken from the abdominal area are transferred along with the blood vessels (muscle is preserved).
– Latissimus Dorsi Flap: Tissue is taken from the back.
Advantages:
– More natural look and feel
– Long-lasting results
Disadvantages:
– Longer and more difficult surgery
– Scarring in a secondary area (e.g., abdomen)
Repair of the Nipple (Areola and Papilla)
After breast reconstruction, the nipple and the dark-colored areola surrounding it can also be reconstructed through surgical or tattooing methods.
– Nipples can be created using skin grafting.
– 3D medical tattoos provide a natural look.
Evaluation Criteria for Candidates
The following criteria are considered in patients seeking breast reconstruction:
– General health condition should be good.
– Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases must be kept under control.
– Smoking is prohibited.
– The radiotherapy process should have been evaluated.
– Expectations should be realistic.
Surgery Process and Recovery
Surgery Duration:
– Repair with implants: 1-2 hours
– Repair using autologous tissue: May take 4–8 hours.
Hospital Stay:
– Usually 2–5 days
Recovery Process:
– Rest for the first week
– Use of a corset and support bra for 4–6 weeks.
– Normal activities can be resumed within 6 weeks.
– Aesthetic results become noticeable in 3-6 months.
Postoperative Psychological Effects
Breast loss can lead to psychological problems in many women, such as body image issues, low self-esteem, and avoidance of sex. Successful breast reconstruction significantly helps to alleviate these problems.
It has also been observed that women feel freer in their clothing choices again and participate more actively in social life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is breast reconstruction surgery covered by the Turkish Social Security Institution (SGK)?
– Yes, reconstructive surgeries after breast cancer are covered by the Social Security Institution (SGK).
Does breast reconstruction affect the recurrence of breast cancer?
– No. Reconstruction does not increase the risk of cancer recurrence or make it more difficult to diagnose.
Can every patient undergo breast reconstruction surgery?
– It is possible for most patients, but the decision should be made taking into account the person’s overall health and the course of cancer treatment.
Our clinic, specializing in Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery and encompassing all areas of aesthetics, operates under the slogan “For Your Beauty,” aiming to provide healthy and world-class services.
The content of this page is for informational purposes only; please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
