Breast Reconstruction

Abstract

Breast reconstruction is an essential component of breast cancer multidisciplinary care. Restoring the breast form has repeatedly been shown to improve self-image, psychological well-being, and overall quality of life. Excellent aesthetic and functional results may be obtained with close collaboration between the breast surgical oncology and reconstructive plastic surgery teams. Plastic surgical consultation should be obtained for all women undergoing mastectomy and in selected women with anticipated contour deformity following breast conservation therapy. Most breast cancer patients will undergo reconstruction in stages coordinated with the individual’s multimodal oncologic therapy. In the majority of patients undergoing mastectomy, this reconstructive process may begin immediately at the time of breast tissue removal. Implant-based and autologous reconstructive approaches may both yield excellent results but need to be matched with patients’ goals, lifestyle, anatomy, and medical comorbidities. This review contains 15 figures, 7 tables and 55 references Key words: autologous reconstruction, breast implant, breast reconstruction, flap, microsurgical breast reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, oncoplastic, perforator flap, single stage