Breast reconstruction
"Reconstruction techniques have evolved significantly in recent years, which gives us the possibility of achieving better results and a higher quality of life for patients".
DR. CRISTINA AUBÁ GUEDEA SPECIALIST. RESTORATIVE AND PLASTIC SURGERY DEPARTMENT
Breast reconstruction is an essential part of treating a patient with breast cancer. It can be total or partial, using prosthesis or own tissues.
The goal is to achieve an improved physical appearance, as close as possible to the previous situation, which helps the patient improve her self-esteem.
The Clinica Universidad de Navarra has a Breast Cancer Area formed by professionals with extensive experience. Our plastic surgeons are highly specialized, and they can begin with the reconstructive techniques as soon as possible, if the patient wishes.
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When is breast reconstruction indicated?
The choice of the most appropriate breast reconstruction technique for each person depends on various factors such as body constitution, the presence of excess skin fat in certain locations, the need or not to administer radiation therapy, lifestyle or preferences of each patient.
In any case, the plastic surgeon will be the one who guides each person on the options and the most appropriate technique to perform the procedure.
Learn about the different breast reconstruction techniques that can be performed (only in spanish).
Have you been diagnosed with breast cancer?
Breast reconstruction may be possible
How breast reconstruction is performed
Total breast reconstruction is performed on those women who have had their entire breast removed to control their breast cancer.
There are various techniques and each has its indications and advantages. The choice of one or another will depend on the decision of the plastic surgeon, who will evaluate the characteristics of each patient.
- Total breast reconstruction with expander-prosthesis.
- Breast reconstruction with wide dorsal muscle with prosthesis.
- Total breast reconstruction with the patient's own tissues.
- Total mammary reconstruction with direct prosthesis and dermal mesh.
Partial reconstruction techniques are used in those patients who have had part of their breast removed (lumpectomy or quadrantectomy).
These interventions can produce defects that cause evident mammary asymmetries and an unsightly appearance.
There are two procedures, whose indication will depend on the characteristics of the patient and the area to be reconstructed:
- Techniques of displacement. Indicated in those cases where the area to be repaired is not too extensive. In addition, it must have sufficient surrounding tissue to be able to reconstruct the affected area and achieve a harmonious and aesthetic appearance.
- Replacement techniques. When the area to be reconstructed is too extensive and it is not possible to repair it with the surrounding tissues. Partial resections of distal tissues are used.
The goal is to achieve the best aesthetic result for the patient. To this end, there are several techniques that improve the appearance of both the reconstructed breast and the contralateral breast.
Reconstruction of the areola-nipple complex
It is a simple procedure, whose application is indicated approximately six months after the last breast surgery. This technique can be performed by surgery, under local anesthesia and with skin from the inguinal region, or by tattooing.
Symmetrization of the contralateral breast
Breast reconstruction sometimes involves performing a procedure on the contralateral breast to achieve greater symmetry.
Among these procedures are:
- Reduction: decrease in the size of the contralateral breast.
- Pexia: elevation of the contralateral breast.
- Augmentation: placement of a breast implant in the contralateral breast.
Although these procedures can be performed at the same time of reconstruction, it is advisable to carry them out after a few months.
Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial compartment, which cannot circulate due to a disturbance in the lymphatic system.
It is a pathology with a prevalence of up to 40% in women with breast cancer.
In many cases, it significantly affects the quality of life of patients who suffer from it.
The objective of the surgical treatment is the decrease of the volume, the functional recovery, the disappearance of the pain, the improvement of the conditions of the skin, the decrease of the fibrosis and the prevention and treatment of the infections.
Where do we do it?
IN NAVARRA AND MADRID
The Breast Cancer Area
of the Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra
The multidisciplinary team of the Breast Cancer Area of the Clinic is expert in the management of patients with breast cancer and is equipped with the most advanced technology to offer an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of this disease.
In 2-3 days the patient has the results of all the tests to be able to begin, in less than a week, with her personalized treatment.
Specialized treatments for breast cancer
- Surgical treatment.
- Treatment with radiotherapy.
- Treatment with chemotherapy.
- Treatment with hormone therapy.
- Treatment with immunotherapy.
- Other biological therapies.
- Breast reconstruction.
Why at the Clinica?
- Integral evaluation of the patient.
- Possibility of beginning personalized treatment a week after the first consultation.
- High level of satisfaction after reconstruction.
Our team of professionals
