What is breast (mastectomy) reconstruction surgery?

Breast (mastectomy) reconstruction surgery aims to restore one or both breasts to a near-normal shape, appearance, and size to correct congenital deformities, such as mastectomy (removal of the breasts for cancer), lumpectomy (removal of a portion of breast tissue to treat tumor or cancer).

Istanbul-Mastectomy,Breast Reconstruction,Lumpectomy

Breast (mastectomy) repair usually involves more than one procedure performed in stages. With mastectomy, breast reconstruction can be started or postponed later.

How is breast reconstruction surgery performed in Istanbul,Turkey?

Breast reconstruction is generally divided into two categories: implant-based reconstruction and flap reconstruction. In implant reconstruction, implants are used to help create a new breast. Flap reconstruction uses tissue from another part of the patient's body to create a new breast.

If only one breast is affected, it can be configured individually. In some cases, lift, reduction or augmentation can be applied to the other breast to equalize both breasts' size, shape, and position.

TRAM flap (abdominal tissue) uses donor muscle, fat, and skin in a woman's lower abdomen to reconstruct the breast. Other donor sites such as the hips or thighs may be selected if there is insufficient tissue in the lower abdomen.

How long does it take to heal after breast reconstruction surgery in Istanbul,Turkey?

The operation takes approximately 2-3 hours and the patient spends the night in the hospital. Small tube-shaped drains can be placed to prevent fluid accumulation during surgery. These are removed one week after surgery. It is possible to return to normal life within 4 weeks after breast reconstruction surgeries.

Scarring is likely to remain after breast repair surgery. This scar, which is red at first, will fade over time. It is possible to minimize these scars with good postoperative wound care.

What should I do after breast (mastectomy) reconstruction surgery?

Op.Dr. Mehmet KÖKSAL will explain in detail what you need to do after the breast (mastectomy) reconstruction surgery. Your breasts are wrapped with a special bandage after boob (mastectomy) reconstruction surgery, and a special supportive bra is given to be used for a few weeks. Especially in the first two days, you should only rest and avoid sudden movements that will move your breasts in first week. During the first month, you should not do heavy sports and should not neglect to wear a sports bra when you plan to do sports.