Treatment for Post-Mastectomy Reconstruction in Delafield

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is breast reconstruction after mastectomy?
  Breast reconstruction is surgery that rebuilds the shape and appearance of a breast removed by mastectomy or altered by lumpectomy. It may use breast implants, a person’s own tissue from another part of the body, called a flap, or a combination of the two. Reconstruction restores breast shape, but it does not restore the original breast’s sensation or function.
• Who is a candidate for breast reconstruction?
  People who have had or will have a mastectomy or lumpectomy for breast cancer may consider reconstruction, as may some people having a risk-reducing, or prophylactic, mastectomy. Candidacy depends on overall health, the type of cancer surgery, prior radiation, and personal preference. These factors and the available options can be reviewed for each person.
• When can breast reconstruction be done?
  Reconstruction may be immediate, during the same operation as the mastectomy, or delayed until months or years after cancer treatment is complete. Timing depends on the cancer treatment plan, whether radiation is needed, and individual preferences. Completing a reconstruction may involve several stages.
• What are the options for breast reconstruction?
  The main approaches are implant-based reconstruction and autologous, or flap, reconstruction. Implant-based reconstruction uses a saline or silicone implant. Flap reconstruction uses the person’s own skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from an area such as the abdomen or back. These approaches may be combined, and fat grafting may refine the result. Nipple reconstruction or tattooing may complete the appearance.
• Do I have to have reconstruction after a mastectomy?
  No. Reconstruction is a personal choice, not the default. Some people pursue it, while others remain without reconstruction, often called going flat. A person who does not reconstruct may use an external breast form, or prosthesis, or wear nothing. The options can be discussed without pressure either way.
• How is fat grafting used in breast reconstruction?
  Fat grafting, also called fat transfer, removes fat from one part of the body through liposuction and injects it into the reconstructed breast. It may smooth a contour irregularity, fill a defect, or add volume while completing or refining a reconstruction. Fat grafting may be combined with implant-based or flap reconstruction.
• Where does Consona fit into a breast reconstruction pathway?
  Dr. Boehm performs breast reconstruction, and Consona publishes a separate page explaining how implant-based and flap reconstruction differ. He also performs procedures that refine a reconstruction afterward, including fat grafting for a contour irregularity, revision to adjust shape, implant exchange, and symmetry surgery on the opposite breast. Each is listed separately. Ask him directly about timing because whether reconstruction can begin at the time of mastectomy depends on the hospital and surgical oncologist as much as on the plastic surgeon.
• Is choosing not to have reconstruction a legitimate option?
  Entirely. Going flat, with or without an external prosthesis, is a recognized choice that avoids further surgery and recovery. It does not close the door on reconstruction: delayed reconstruction may take place months or years later, so a decision made during cancer treatment does not have to be final. Flat closure is not an exception to a presumed default of reconstruction. Delayed reconstruction is also on Dr. Boehm’s service list, keeping the later option available.