Breast reconstruction is becoming an increasingly popular form of cosmetic surgery since more women are losing their breasts due to cancer and other diseases. Without this surgery, women will need prosthetics in order to give the appearance of a balanced bust. Having this surgery will make this unnecessary and will allow the patient to be able to wear clothing that exposes the bust again without it looking unnatural. Breast reconstruction is not to be confused with breast enhancement or enlargement, even though the procedures are similar.

The Procedure

The procedure for a breast reconstruction will take about one to two hours. If flap reconstruction surgery is needed as well, then the overall process will take much longer. The reason for this is due to the fact that microsurgery is needed in order to reconnect tiny little blood vessels. In order for the surgeon to create a new breast, the patient’s own skin tissue is used. It often takes place at the same time as the mastectomy in order for there to be as few operations as possible. You usually have two choices on how the procedure will be performed: with breast implants or by a flap reconstruction.

The Recovery

After you have had the breast reconstruction surgery, it will take you about six weeks to recover from a combination mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery. If you have a flap reconstruction procedure done it will also take about six weeks to recover from that. Because of the more complex nature of this plastic surgery, it will most likely be performed on an inpatient basis. There are few side effects for this procedure; mostly the patient may have to deal with a loss of sensation in the breasts for a period of time.

Cost of Breast Reconstruction

It’s impossible to give a specific cost for a breast reconstruction surgery as the price will vary based on many different factors. You can expect to pay at least $4,000 to $5,000 for a breast implant surgery, more if you opt to have the flap reconstruction done.

The Risks of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

If you have breast reconstruction surgery performed, there are certain risks involved, as there are with any type of cosmetic surgery. These risks may include bleeding, fluid collection, excessive scar tissue, infection, and complications with the anesthesia. If breast implants are used, they may cause problems down the road which may require them to have to be removed or replaced.