Breast Reconstruction
Breast cancer is common in Hong Kong females. Although breast cancer can be removed by lumpectomy, the entire breast might have to be removed in some cases. Breasts are naturally important feminine features and breast reconstruction surgery can help restore breast loss to ease patient concerns physically and psychologically. Breast cancer patients can restore their original body shape at the time of mastectomy or later after the completion of all cancer treatments. Breast reconstruction can rebuild and reshape with either autologous tissue or breast implant. Patients can choose their preferred surgery method according to their preferences, health conditions, type of breast cancer and size of the normal breast.
Breast Reconstruction with TRAM Flap
Excess fat and skin in the abdomen is transformed into a breast pocket by flap surgery. The flap is shaped to form a new breast and the abdomen can be tightened at the same time. The success rate of the surgery is high. Rare complications include flap necrosis and hernia.
Breast Reconstruction with Implant
Breast reconstruction surgery with implant can be done at the time of mastectomy or later after the completion of all cancer treatments. Depending on the implant or type of cancer, breast reconstruction surgery can be performed in one or two stages. An immediate reconstruction is only suitable for patients who do not need radiotherapy after mastectomy.
Since radiotherapy increases the chance of capsular contracture, the plastic surgeon may delay the reconstruction operation until after all adjuvant treatments. During the reconstruction, the doctor will create a breast shape by using a tissue expander. Saline is injected regularly for a period of time until the breast area is big enough to insert the permanent implant. No new incision is required for breast reconstruction. Recovery time is short. Some rare complications may include displacement of the implant, leakage or capsular contracture.