Should I Go Smaller or Bigger for a Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy?Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a very important part of the recovery process. It’s a procedure that can help to bring some closure to an extremely sensitive situation and helps a woman feel whole again.
Related: 3 Ways to Say Goodbye to Your Breasts Before a Mastectomy
Women who have elected to have breast reconstruction surgery are faced with some key decisions, such as what they want their breasts to look like once the procedure is over. One of the most common questions women ask themselves is whether they should choose to go with bigger or smaller breasts than what they had before. Here are few points to consider when making this decision.
1. Stage of Life – Your Age
Breast cancer can affect women at all different ages, which is an important consideration when choosing whether to go with bigger or smaller breasts during breast reconstruction. For example, if you are younger and still plan on having children or other breast enhancement surgeries down the road, you may want to plan accordingly. Women in their 50’s and 60’s may have a completely different view of breast reconstruction than those in their 20’s.
2. What’s Available to Work With
As you consult with your surgeon before breast reconstruction surgery, it will be important to consider the amount of skin and muscle that is left after the mastectomy and how that will affect your breast size. Some mastectomies will take more tissue than others. You may not be able to go as large as you would like to if there isn’t enough skin to work with.
3. Body Type and Size
With any breast augmentation procedure, your surgeon will talk with you about options that make the most sense for your body type and size. For example, smaller women with shorter frames may not want breasts that are too large, as they can impact their appearance. Your surgeon will be able to show you several options and ideas so you can find something that fits your size and look just right.
4. Future Breast Enhancement
One thing to consider as you go through the breast reconstruction process is that this will probably not be your last breast surgery. While modern day breast implants are built for longevity and durability, chances are that you will need breast enhancement surgery again down the road. This might happen anywhere from 10 to 30 years after your first surgery. Knowing this can help you to know what size breasts you want for now.
Have A Question About Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy?
When you work with Dr. Richard J. Brown for a breast reconstruction surgery, he is prepared to discuss breast size options at length so you feel confident in your final decision. The first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brown by calling 480-568-3804.
