Choices in Reconstructive Procedures

The type of breast reconstruction procedure available to you depends on your medical situation, your breast shape and size, your general health and lifestyle, and your goals. Every woman's situation is unique.

Breast reconstruction can be accomplished by the use of a prosthesis (a breast implant) or your own tissues (a tissue flap). A breast implant is a fluid-filled breast form which is surgically implanted under your chest tissues to create a new breast. A tissue flap is a section of skin, fat and muscle which is moved from your stomach, back or other area of your body, to the chest area, and shaped into a new breast. The following pages contain a brief discussion of these commonly used breast reconstruction procedures.

If you are considering breast reconstruction, your plastic surgeon can provide you with information that fully explains the risks and complications associated with breast implants, tissue flaps, and with surgery itself. It is recommended that you read all of the information provided before scheduling surgery, so that you have plenty of time to ask questions and evaluate all of your options.