I am a breast cancer patient interested in breast reconstructive surgery. What are my options?
There are several reconstructive options available for breast cancer patients. The breast can be reconstructed using either the patient’s body tissue or with a breast implant. The use of body tissue from the abdomen will yield good cosmetic results. The procedure, called TRAM flap (transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous) is the most commonly body tissue used. However, this procedure is a lengthy operation with potential complications and prolonged hospitalization. The use of a breast implant and tissue expander is much simpler and provides good cosmetic results.