How to Prepare for Breast Reconstruction after a Double Mastectomy

The majority of women with breast cancer will undergo some sort of surgery as part of their treatment program. This is usually predominantly to remove the cancer from the breast, but in some cases, surgery is necessary as part of the diagnostic procedure or to determine if the cancer has spread beyond the breast area. Some women will also choose to have their breast tissue removed to prevent the cancer from returning in the future, and a very small number choose to have surgery to remove the breasts to avoid breast cancer altogether (usually due to a strong family history of breast cancer, or gene testing to show that they are exceptionally high risk). The removal of a single breast is known as a mastectomy, and if both breasts are removed, it is called a double mastectomy. Many women who undergo a mastectomy later decide to have their feminine curves restored using breast reconstruction surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, preparation for breast reconstruction is crucial for you to achieve the best physical and psychological outcome of your procedure. It’s essential for patients to be aware of what to expect from their procedure, including what the risks are and how long it will take them to recover. Here’s what you need to know about how to prepare for breast reconstruction after a double mastectomy.

 

Preparing for a breast reconstruction procedure

Your surgeon will give you very specific advice about the best way to prepare for your breast reconstruction procedure and it is crucial that you follow this guidance. It may involve elements such as:
 

-       Stopping or adjusting certain medications that could influence the procedure or its outcome.

-       Stopping smoking. This is essential as smoking increases the likelihood of complications and prolongs the healing process.

-       What and when you should eat/drink ahead of your surgery.

-       Making sure that you attend your pre-op medical evaluation.

-       Arranging for someone to drive you home and support you during your recovery.

 

What is involved in breast reconstruction?

A breast reconstruction is exactly what its name suggests – a procedure designed to reconstruct the breasts so that you can enjoy having your curves once more. Reconstruction can take place using implants – which are either silicone or saline – or using your own body fat. Your surgeon will be able to advise you which implants may be best for you and will be able to help you decide which size will be most appropriate.

The surgery to reconstruct your breasts will be performed using a general anesthetic, which will ensure you are asleep and not in any pain. When you wake up, which could be up to several hours later, your new breasts will be swollen and wrapped in dressings and bandages. You’ll also have a support garment in place which will hold your new breasts in position while your body heals. You’ll need to stay in at least one night before you will be allowed to go home.

 

Returning to normal after your breast reconstruction

You’ll need to give yourself time to heal and recover following your breast reconstruction surgery. Most women are advised to take several weeks off of work, but it’s important to bear in mind that it could be as long as 8 weeks before you can fully return to your usual activities.

Some discomfort is to be expected following your breast reconstruction, and you’ll be given medication to help you manage this. You must take this medication, along with any others you are given such as anti-inflammatories or antibiotics exactly as directed. You’ll also need to wear a support bra for a least 6 weeks, and you may be recommended to wear one as much as possible to keep your breasts in the best position. Expect it to take between 8 and 12 weeks for your breasts to fully heal and for the swelling to subside, revealing your final appearance.

 

Risks associated with breast reconstruction

Like all surgeries, there are a number of risks associated with a breast reconstruction procedure. Your cosmetic surgeon will first want to ensure that your oncologist is happy for you to undergo surgery. Your health is the priority of both parties, so it is important to make sure that you are strong and healthy enough for your breast reconstruction as it is a major procedure. The benefits of performing the surgery must outweigh the risks involved, which can include:

-       Problems with the anesthetic

-       Infection

-       Bleeding and blood clots

-       Wound healing complications

-       Tissue necrosis

-       Uneven breasts

-       Problems with the implant used

Mammograms following breast reconstruction

Women who have undergone a mastectomy as part of their breast cancer procedure don’t generally need routine screening mammograms where their breasts have been removed. This remains the case if you later undergo breast reconstruction surgery. However, if you experience any problems with your new breasts, you may be given a diagnostic mammogram in the future. If you aren’t sure if you need to get routine mammograms, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor.

For more information on how to prepare for breast reconstruction after a double mastectomy, please speak to our reassuring team.