Own fat transplantation
This method can be considered if sufficient skin of the patient’s own is preserved after the removal of the breast. Then the breast can be built up using fatty tissue which has previously been suctioned from various suitable parts of the body. Often a fat transplantation has to be repeated, because the body partially decomposes the fat again, which can lead to a difference in the size of the breasts again.
Reconstruction of the nipple
Once the breast has been reconstructed and healing is largely complete, the nipple can also be reconstructed in a further operation. Various methods can also be used for this. Skin and corresponding tissue can be removed again and formed into a nipple.
This procedure can usually also be performed under local anesthesia. A further variant is the so-called “nipple sharing”. This is a method in which the healthy nipple, if it is large enough, is divided and a new one is formed from it. However, there is a risk that the sensitivity of the healthy nipple will change. The nipple atrium is then darkened accordingly by means of tattooing or transplantation.
Complications
Every operation involves various risks and complications, including breast reconstruction. Possible complications include infections, wound healing disorders, post-operative bleeding, excessive scarring, incompatibility with the implants and the need for follow-up surgery. In addition, the reconstruction can also cause numbness, especially when the nipple is built up by nipple sharing. Therefore, the patient should be informed that the breast can often be reconstructed in a very good and natural looking way, but that the original sensation of the breast cannot be achieved. Also generally known risks of thrombosis or embolism can occur.
After the reconstruction
During the operation, drains are inserted into the wound to drain off blood and wound secretions for several days after the operation. If they convey only very little wound fluid, they can be removed. As a rule, patients can be discharged from the hospital after a few days if the treatment proceeds without complications.
The maximum stay in hospital is usually up to two weeks. After the procedure, the patient should take sufficient time to recover and rest. Depending on the job, a sick note is still necessary.
In addition, for sports that also require the activity of the arms, the patient should take a break for at least six weeks after the operation. During this time, patients also wear certain bras or bodices that compress the breasts, thus preventing scars from tearing. The cosmetically pleasing healing of scars can also be promoted by protecting them from the sun’s rays and regularly applying appropriate scar ointments.
Cost of the operation
In case of an existing breast cancer, the subsequent reconstruction of the breast is part of the treatment plan. Accordingly, the costs of the operation and any necessary follow-up operations are covered by statutory and private health insurance companies. Congenital malformations and preventive breast removal in the case of a family disposition can also be covered. Before the operation, the patient can obtain sufficient information on this from her responsible health insurance company.
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