Preventative mastectomy remains an option for women with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer.
Every year in Spain alone, around 35,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed, the most common among women. However, this type of cancer has a survival rate of more than 80%, and many survivors decide to undergo breast reconstruction. This operation not only restores the aesthetics of the breast, but also contributes to the emotional and psychological recovery of patients, restoring their self-confidence and allowing them to distance themselves emotionally from the disease.
Breast reconstruction has evolved enormously in recent years, not only in more advanced techniques, more personalized options, less invasive and with more natural results. If only for the focus it has acquired, more oriented towards women and less towards society”Years ago, breast reconstruction after a mastectomy was a social thing. The surgeon created something that looked like a breast from the outside, something so that when people saw you dressed, they wouldn’t ask you about it. Nowadays, breast reconstruction focuses on a woman’s personal well-being: we want to give her back a physical appearance with which she feels comfortable and identifies. It’s no longer about how others see you well, but about making women feel good. Reconstruction guarantees quality of life and happier women”explains Ivan Mañero, aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon.
Advanced techniques for breast reconstruction
In post-mastectomy breast reconstruction there are various techniques that allow very natural aesthetic results to be achieved, however, underlines Mañero “It is important to listen to the patient and know what they need, how they need it and why before considering surgery. It’s not about leaving the operating room with two breasts, but about leaving with two beautiful, natural-looking breasts with which the patient feels comfortable.”.
Between the most used techniques included:
- Reconstruction with implants: Consists of placing silicone prostheses to recreate the volume of the breast. It is a recommended option for those patients who do not want a more extensive operation or who prefer to avoid autologous tissue surgery.
- Autologous flap reconstruction: Uses tissue from your abdomen or back to reconstruct your breasts. This option offers very natural results and avoids the use of prostheses, although it involves a longer postoperative period.
- Lipofilling: Less invasive technique that uses the patient’s own fat, obtained through liposuction, to give volume and shape to the reconstructed breast. Lipofilling can also be combined with other techniques to improve symmetry or correct imperfections.
- Biological networks: These are structures that are placed under the skin and help support breast reconstruction. They are made with biocompatible materials that favor integration with the patient’s tissues.
Preserving your mastectomy: Angelina Jolie’s legacy
A fundamental point in the prevention of breast cancer is the preventive or conservative mastectomy, a technique that gained notoriety when the actress Angelina Jolie decided to undergo it after learning of her genetic predisposition to the development of breast cancer. This type of surgery allows you to remove potentially cancerous breast tissue, while preserving the skin, nipple and areola to facilitate a more aesthetic and natural reconstruction.
“Although it is not a common technique, more and more women are faced with the decision to opt for a preventative mastectomy when they are at high risk of developing breast cancer. Knowing that this option exists allows them to decide about their health and this is also very important.”, explains the expert.
Every year, World Breast Cancer Day reminds us of the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and the opportunities that reconstructive surgery offers to give patients back an important part of themselves.
What are the benefits of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy for breast cancer patients?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Ivan Mañero, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Mañero! Thank you for joining us today. The topic of breast cancer is incredibly significant for many women, and it’s heartening to hear that survival rates are above 80%. Can you share what that means for patients considering breast reconstruction?
Dr. Ivan Mañero: Thank you for having me! The high survival rate is indeed a positive trend, but it’s essential to emphasize that the journey does not stop after surviving cancer. For many women, undergoing a mastectomy can be a life-altering experience that affects them physically and emotionally. Breast reconstruction plays a vital role in helping them regain their confidence and overall quality of life.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating to see how breast reconstruction has evolved over the years. You mentioned that it used to be focused on appearance for social acceptance. Can you explain how the perspective has shifted?
Dr. Ivan Mañero: Absolutely. In the past, the goal was often to create a breast that looked aesthetically acceptable from an external viewpoint. The emphasis was on how others perceived the patient rather than how the patient felt. Today, reconstruction focuses on the internal healing of the woman as an individual. It’s about ensuring she feels comfortable and beautiful in her own skin.
Time.news Editor: That personal connection seems vital. When patients come to you for reconstruction, what are some of the considerations they should keep in mind?
Dr. Ivan Mañero: Listening to the patient is crucial. It’s about understanding their needs, expectations, and the emotional journey they’ve been through. Each woman’s experience is unique, so we strive to customize the approach to their preferences. It’s not just about leaving the operating room with two breasts; it’s about ensuring that they feel whole and confident again.
Time.news Editor: Interesting! What are the most commonly used techniques for breast reconstruction today?
Dr. Ivan Mañero: Currently, there are several techniques to achieve natural-looking results. The most popular include:
- Reconstruction with Implants: This method uses silicone prostheses. It’s often recommended for women who prefer a simpler option without the need for extensive surgery.
- Autologous Flap Reconstruction: Here, we take tissue from the patient’s own body, often from the abdomen or back, to create a new breast. This provides very natural results but requires a longer recovery time.
- Lipofilling: This is a less invasive technique where we use the patient’s own fat, harvested via liposuction, to fill out the breast shape.
Time.news Editor: Those options sound very promising! How does the recovery process differ among these techniques?
Dr. Ivan Mañero: Recovery can vary significantly. Implant reconstruction generally offers a quicker recovery when compared to flap reconstruction, which involves more extensive surgery and healing time. Lipofilling tends to have a relatively short recovery period as well, given its minimally invasive nature. Ultimately, we ensure the patient is fully informed and prepared for whatever technique they choose.
Time.news Editor: That’s very insightful. Lastly, what message would you like to share with women who are contemplating breast reconstruction?
Dr. Ivan Mañero: I want women to know that reconstruction is a very personal choice, and it’s okay to take the time to consider all options before deciding. What’s most important is that they feel supported throughout this journey. With advancements in techniques and a focus on personalization, there’s hope and healing ahead.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mañero. This discussion sheds light on such an important topic. We appreciate your insights and hope many women find comfort and confidence in the possibilities ahead.
Dr. Ivan Mañero: Thank you! It’s my pleasure to share this information.