Before and after bilateral delayed implant reconstruction in a 57 year old breast cancer survivor. In her home state on the East Coast, she was told by local surgeons that she was “too fat for reconstruction” and that she should just wear a prosthesis in her bra.
These stories break our heart! Most women indeed ARE candidates for breast reconstruction, no matter their body shape or weight. As long as you are healthy enough to undergo surgery and you know what to expect, including the risks and benefits, alternatives, expected outcomes and potential complications of surgery – this is called “informed consent” – then it is safe to proceed with reconstruction.
Her reconstruction involved placement of smooth round adjustable permanent saline filled breast implants on top of the muscle, in the prepectoral position. These implants fill out the breast space; tissue expanders are not needed and implants are never put under the muscle in our office.
She stayed in the Bay Area with family for one month after surgery and required only two inflations afterward. One year later, she returned for implant port removal and exchange to smooth round high profile silicone gel breast implants. Nipples were reconstructed at the same procedure and medical tattoo created an areolar circle.
Long term follow up photos are shown three years after surgery. She feels comfortable in her skin and no longer has a constant reminder about her breast cancer diagnosis when she undresses. We see her in San Francisco to see us every 2-3 years for long term follow up.
*All photos are actual patient photographs and are for illustrative purposes only. Individual results may vary.
