Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women today, possibly affecting one out of every eight women. Many women make a complete recovery from breast cancer, and breast reconstruction can be a very helpful step in that process.

Breast reconstruction can be done at the time of a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at some point afterwards (delayed reconstruction). It may be accomplished by the use of a breast implant, the body’s tissues, or a combination of the two. The breast reconstruction procedure and products that are right for you will vary depending on desired outcome, personal preferences and clinical factors.

Breast reconstruction using the body’s tissue without the use of implants is called autologous flap surgery. It uses a combination of skin, fat, and/or muscle that is moved from areas such as the abdomen, upper back, upper hip, or buttocks to the chest, where it is shaped into a new breast. Not every woman is a candidate for this type of breast reconstruction, and it is best to discuss the pros and cons of these procedures with your surgeon.

You can hear women who have undergone breast reconstruction talk about their personal experiences here.

Compiled using information from yourbreastoptions.com.