More people today are beating breast cancer, but surviving is no longer the finish line; thriving is.
Healing means reclaiming a sense of wholeness. For many women, breast reconstruction can play a vital role in regaining that well-being. It is not a cosmetic procedure, but restores the body, as much as possible, to its pre-cancer state.
Dr. Judy C. Boughey
Breast Surgical Oncologist, Mayo Clinic Rochester; Past-President, American Society of Breast Surgeons
“Partnership between breast surgeons and plastic surgeons, with the patient at the center of decision-making, is important to ensure patients considering reconstruction understand all their options,” said Dr. Judy Boughey, a breast surgical oncologist at Mayo Clinic Rochester and past-president of the American Society of Breast Surgeons.
Early consultation is critical
The best results happen when breast and plastic surgeons are part of the care team from the beginning. A breast surgeon will discuss removal of the tumor, breast surgery, and lymph node surgery, and initiate a discussion regarding options for reconstruction. Although there are some patients who are not candidates for immediate reconstruction, either due to the extent of their breast cancer or due to patient factors, flat closure or delayed reconstruction should also be discussed with the patient. Breast surgeons should discuss the option of reconstruction with all patients planning a mastectomy. Then, for patients interested in reconstruction, refer to a plastic surgeon who will then ensure reconstruction is integrated into the overall treatment plan. This collaboration gives patients the most options from the outset.
Dr. Geoffroy Sisk
Faculty Member, Duke University; Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
“The important interplay between quality of life and cancer safety is part of what makes breast care so unique,” said Dr. Geoffroy Sisk, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and faculty member at Duke University. “Ultimately, the best outcomes and the most patient-centered care are achieved through collaborative partnerships between breast surgical oncologists and plastic surgeons who understand and value the importance of each other’s roles.”
More options, better outcomes
A discussion with your care team is the best way to learn about your options, because there is no standard breast reconstruction. Patients face several decisions. First is choosing either breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) or removal of the whole breast (mastectomy).
Another is removing one breast or both. Then there is the question of reconstruction. Options include implant-based, flap (using the patient’s own tissue), or tissue rearrangement procedures. Yet, not all patients will choose reconstruction. Aesthetic flat closure refers to mastectomy without preserving skin for reconstruction and involves removing redundant skin with flat closure.
Dr. Michael P. Berry
Breast Surgical Oncologist, West Cancer Institute; President, American Society of Breast Surgeons
“Every person facing breast cancer deserves the chance to not only survive but to feel complete in their own body. Reconstruction is a vital part of the recovery process, and understanding all surgical options empowers patients to move forward with confidence and hope,” said Dr. Michael P. Berry, president of the American Society of Breast Surgeons and breast surgical oncologist at West Cancer Institute.
Two surgeons, one team
Breast surgeons and plastic surgeons help patients make the best decisions that align with their goals.
Dr. Meredith Collins
Chief of Plastic Surgery, Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center (New Orleans); Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
“Understanding all the options available for breast reconstruction and what each choice entails, including timing, details of the procedure, and the anticipated recovery, is incredibly important,” said Dr. Meredith Collins, chief of plastic surgery at Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center in New Orleans and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Ensuring patients know all the facts and what to expect with each surgical option will allow them to make an informed decision and choose the right procedure for their aesthetic goals and lifestyle.”
Breast and plastic surgeons are working together to close the gaps in access to care and awareness so every patient is informed and supported, so they not only recover but are also empowered.
