Breast reconstruction will be discussed with all patients who are advised to undergo a mastectomy as part of their breast cancer treatment. Not all reconstruction options are suitable for every patient, so Dr. Mahmoud Abu Dakka will create a personalized plan based on each individual’s needs. In some cases, immediate breast reconstruction may not be recommended if it could interfere with cancer treatment, and delayed reconstruction might be a better option. The primary goals of breast reconstruction are to restore breast volume and achieve symmetry. For many patients, the reconstructed breast may differ in shape and size compared to the unaffected breast, so a conversation about symmetry procedures, such as a breast uplift or reduction, will be considered if necessary.
 

The main options for breast reconstruction involve either the use of implants or the patient’s own tissue (typically from the back or abdomen). Each option comes with varying surgery durations, recovery times, and risks. In certain cases, some reconstruction options may not be possible at the time of mastectomy due to the need for post-surgery cancer treatments. In such situations, a two-stage reconstruction may be recommended, where a temporary reconstruction is performed first, followed by the final reconstruction after cancer treatment is complete.