Breast reconstruction is a common procedure for women who have had a mastectomy due to breast cancer. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, an estimated 1.8 million women worldwide were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020.
Of those, about 20–30% underwent breast reconstruction surgery. This translates to an estimated 3,60,000–5,40,000 women who received reconstructive breast surgery after cancer worldwide. Read ahead to learn more in detail about breast reconstruction after cancer, its types, possible risks etc.
Why do people choose breast reconstruction after cancer?
Breast reconstruction after cancer can be an important step in the physical and emotional recovery process for many women who have undergone a mastectomy after cancer. It is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the breast and can be a physically and emotionally traumatic experience. Breast reconstruction can help restore the appearance of the breast and help women feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies after the cancer surgery.
Breast reconstruction after cancer can have many benefits. Some of the potential benefits of breast reconstruction surgery include the following:
- Improved self-esteem and body image: Breast reconstruction can help restore a sense of femininity and self-confidence by recreating the breast’s natural appearance.
- Improved physical comfort: Breast reconstruction can help alleviate physical discomfort caused by the absence of breast tissue, such as the feeling of weight or pressure on the chest.
- Symmetry: Breast reconstruction can help restore symmetry to the chest by recreating a breast on the side of the body where a mastectomy was performed.
- Clothes fit better: Breast reconstruction can help clothes fit better by recreating the natural contours of the breast, which can be particularly helpful for women who prefer form-fitting clothing.
- Emotional well-being: Breast reconstruction can positively impact emotional well-being by helping women feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies.
