Our Summary

This research paper is about a 42-year-old woman who had a successful breast reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy, or breast removal, due to cancer. She had already undergone a previous surgery that involved silicone implants for breast augmentation. However, she wanted to keep her natural breast size and appearance.

Thanks to the availability of extra tissue in her abdomen, the doctors performed a unique procedure where they used this tissue to reconstruct the removed breast and also to enhance her other breast. This technique is called a “deep inferior epigastric perforator flap.”

The surgery went well and the patient was able to recover without any complications. She was pleased with the outcome, as her breast size was maintained without the need for implants. The paper concludes that this procedure could be a suitable option for some patients who need breast reconstruction. It avoids the complications that can come with implants, and makes use of excess abdominal tissue.

FAQs

  1. What is the deep inferior epigastric perforator flap procedure and how is it used in breast reconstruction?
  2. What are the advantages of using the deep inferior epigastric perforator flap for breast reconstruction and augmentation?
  3. Can the deep inferior epigastric perforator flap procedure be used to maintain natural appearance and size after mastectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast augmentation is to carefully consider all options available, including non-implant options such as using tissue from other parts of the body for reconstruction. This can help avoid potential complications associated with implants and provide a more natural appearance. It is important to discuss all options with your doctor and choose the best option for your individual needs and goals.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for breast augmentation are those who desire to increase the size or improve the shape of their breasts. This may include individuals who have naturally small breasts, asymmetrical breasts, or have lost breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. Additionally, some patients may choose breast augmentation as part of breast reconstruction following mastectomy for breast cancer or other medical reasons. Ultimately, the decision to undergo breast augmentation should be made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess the patient’s individual goals and anatomy to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Timeline

Before breast augmentation:

  1. Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss desired breast size and appearance.
  2. Patient undergoes a physical examination and medical history review to determine candidacy for the procedure.
  3. Patient discusses implant options, incision placement, and potential risks and complications.
  4. Patient may undergo preoperative tests and imaging studies to ensure optimal surgical planning.

After breast augmentation:

  1. Patient undergoes the breast augmentation surgery, which typically takes 1-2 hours under general anesthesia.
  2. Patient may experience temporary discomfort, swelling, and bruising postoperatively.
  3. Patient is instructed on proper wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
  4. Patient may wear a surgical bra or compression garment to support the breasts during the healing process.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may return to work within a week.
  6. Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  7. Patient enjoys the final results of the breast augmentation, with improved breast size and shape.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and complications associated with breast augmentation surgery?
  2. What type of implant options are available and what are the differences between them?
  3. How will the size and shape of my breasts be determined for the augmentation?
  4. What is the recovery process like after breast augmentation surgery?
  5. How long do the results of breast augmentation typically last?
  6. Will I need to have regular follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  7. What are the potential long-term effects of having breast implants?
  8. How will breast augmentation surgery affect my ability to breastfeed in the future?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to optimize results?
  10. What are the alternative options to breast augmentation surgery that I should consider?

Reference

Authors: Khatib M, Wong KY, Elfaki A, Haywood RM, Masud D. Journal: Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2020 Jul;102(6):e122-e124. doi: 10.1308/rcsann.2019.0186. Epub 2020 Apr 24. PMID: 32326743