As you prepare for breast reconstruction surgery, ask your surgeon what you can expect. Your surgeon can help you get as prepared as possible. You want to have realistic expectations of how your body will look and feel following surgery and understand the benefits and dangers of the type of reconstruction you are having. Ask questions and follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully. 

Breast reconstruction can make you feel better about your appearance and boost your self-confidence, but keep in mind that the reconstructed breast will not be a perfect match or replacement for your natural breast. If tissue from your tummy, back, thigh, or buttocks is used, the locations will appear different following surgery. Consult your surgeon regarding surgical scars and changes in shape or contour. Inquire about where they will be and how they will appear and feel following healing.

Your surgeon or other associated doctors/staff should discuss the specifics of your surgery, including:

• The medications (anesthesia) will be used to make you sleep and not experience discomfort during the surgery;

• Where will the procedure be performed;

• How long will the surgery take;

• Possible surgical consequences (long and short-term);

• What to expect following surgery;

• The plan of follow-up;

• Costs linked with surgery.

Understanding Your Surgery Costs

Health insurance coverage frequently covers the majority or all of the expense of mastectomy reconstruction, but this may not always be the case if reconstruction is performed following breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy or partial mastectomy). Check your insurance to ensure you are protected, and find out what portion you will be responsible for paying. Also, check to see if there are any limitations on the reconstruction covered.

Before surgery, confirm that your insurance provider will not deny breast reconstruction payments (for mastectomy or lumpectomy). If your insurance plan denies coverage, your surgeon may be able to assist you with this, so ask if you require assistance. It may require some time and effort. In the past, health insurance companies withheld coverage for certain reconstruction treatments despite federal rules requiring coverage in most circumstances. They frequently reverse such decisions on appeal.

Getting Prepared for Surgery

Your breast surgeon and plastic surgeon should provide detailed advice on how to prepare for surgery. These will likely include:

• Help with quitting smoking if you smoke;

• Instructions for taking or avoiding certain vitamins, medications, and dietary or herbal supplements for a period of time before your surgery;

• Instructions for eating and drinking prior to surgery;

• Plan to have someone drive you home after your surgery or stay in the hospital. You may also require them to stay and assist you for a few days or more.

Where Will Your Procedure Be Done?

Breast reconstruction frequently requires more than one operation. The first forms the breast mound. This can be done during or after the mastectomy. It is often done at a hospital. Outpatient facilities are typically where follow-up treatments such as filling expanders or forming the nipple and areola take place. However, this option depends on the amount of surgery required and your surgeon's preferences, so you should inquire about it.

What Anesthetic Will Be Used?

The first stage of reconstruction is generally always performed under general anesthesia. This means you'll be given medicines to help you sleep and avoid pain during surgery.

Follow-up operations may only require local anesthetic. This means that the doctor will only numb the area he is working on. A sedative pill may also be used to make you feel calm while remaining awake. You might experience some discomfort.

Possible Hazards of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Any form of surgery carries dangers, and breast reconstruction may provide special challenges for some women. Your surgeon will discuss the potential dangers of reconstructive surgery with you. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.