A modified radical mastectomy also allows for immediate or delayed breast reconstruction.
The method used for performing breast reconstruction is based on the preference of the patient. The reconstruction can be done by immediate reconstruction, where reconstruction occurs in the same time period in which mastectomy is done, or by delayed reconstruction, where reconstruction of the breast is done after mastectomy.
Breast reconstruction can be undertaken either during or after a mastectomy depending on the advice of the surgeon and the wishes of the patient. It is possible to have an immediate reconstruction if there is no need for irradiation treatment after the surgery. Should this be necessary the reconstruction can be undertaken following treatment.
Many women choose to have breast reconstruction performed in conjunction with the mastectomy.
Breast reconstruction, especially if it is begun at the same time as the simple mastectomy, can minimize the sense of loss that women feel when having a breast removed.
If enlargement is part of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, health plans may pay for some or all of it
No, Breast reconstruction is only covered following a Mastectomy
When a breast is removed as part of breast cancer treatment, it is typically referred to as a mastectomy. A mastectomy may be recommended in cases where the cancer is large, aggressive, or has spread to surrounding tissues, or if the patient has a high risk of recurrence. There are different types of mastectomy procedures, including: Total (Simple) Mastectomy: In a total mastectomy, the entire breast tissue, including the nipple and areola, is removed, but the lymph nodes under the arm are left intact. Modified Radical Mastectomy: This procedure involves removing the entire breast tissue, as well as some of the lymph nodes under the arm (axillary lymph nodes). Radical Mastectomy: This less common procedure involves removing the entire breast tissue, as well as the chest muscles under the breast and lymph nodes in the armpit. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: In this procedure, the breast tissue is removed, but the skin covering the breast is preserved to facilitate breast reconstruction. Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: In a nipple-sparing mastectomy, the breast tissue is removed, but the nipple and areola are preserved. This approach is often used when breast reconstruction is planned. After a mastectomy, patients may undergo additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy depending on the characteristics of the cancer and the individual's overall health. Breast reconstruction may also be considered to restore the appearance of the breast after surgery. It's important for individuals undergoing mastectomy to discuss their treatment options and preferences with their healthcare team to make informed decisions about their care.
Removal of the breast is a Mastectomy.
A skin-sparing mastectomy uses special techniques that preserve the patient's breast skin for use in reconstruction, although the nipple still is removed.
A modified version of abdominoplasty may be used to reconstruct a breast in a patient who has undergone mastectomy (surgical removal of the breast, usually as a treatment for cancer
In 1998, the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act required insurance plans to cover the cost of breast reconstruction in conjunction with a mastectomy procedure.
Two setups may be required if reconstruction is done immediately following the mastectomy to prevent spreading of cancer cells aka seeding.