Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Mastectomy represents a form of amputation for the female body. The breast expresses feelings of motherhood and femininity for a woman. The goal of breast reconstruction is to create a natural contour of the female body and breast appearance. Breast reconstruction can be performed using various techniques, such as the insertion of a tissue expander/silicone implant, or the transfer of nearby or distant autologous tissue. At the same time as the reconstruction, the opposite breast can undergo plastic surgery (augmentation, lift, or reduction) for symmetry, resulting in even more impressive results. The methods of reconstruction are as follows: a) Insertion of tissue expander/silicone implant b) Reconstruction with transfer of nearby tissue (pedicled flap) c) Reconstruction with free flap transfer.
Application/Action
The wishes of our patients have led us to develop and apply, in specific cases, a comprehensive approach combining oncological and aesthetic treatment in a single surgery. This allows the woman to achieve the desired aesthetic result immediately, while being free from disease. The technique we use requires careful preoperative planning by the surgical team (breast surgeon and plastic surgeon). The procedure is performed through a relatively small incision, usually in the inframammary fold of the breast, through which the mastectomy is performed—that is, the removal of the entire breast tissue under the skin. Then, a special silicone implant, matching the volume and shape of the removed breast, is placed under the pectoralis major muscle and stabilized with a special titanium mesh (Ti-LOOP), all in one surgery. The total duration of the procedure (mastectomy and reconstruction) ranges from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the type of mastectomy (unilateral or bilateral).
Return to everyday life
The patient’s hospital stay lasts 2–3 days and usually does not require strong pain medication. The postoperative course is relatively painless. Some dressing changes and follow-up appointments at the clinic are necessary. Wearing a special bra is required for about one month, and the patient can return to daily activities after 10–15 days. Skin sensitivity gradually returns, in most cases within 3–6 months.