What is a Pre-pectoral Reconstruction?
A pre-pectoral reconstruction is a type reconstruction procedure that starts with a tissue expander or implant, over the pectoral muscle rather than under it. This procedure can be performed either during the mastectomy procedure or at a later date. A second surgical procedure maybe used to replace the expander with an implant. This technique has many advantages such as it being a less invasive method with a quicker recovery period.
When is a pre-pectoral reconstruction recommended?
A pre-pectoral reconstruction is recommended for patients who want to have an implant reconstruction with a reduced risk of capsular contraction after a mastectomy has been performed. This reconstruction method is recommended for patients who want a quicker recovery and a less invasive procedure.
To be eligible for this technique, the patient’s mastectomy skin flap must have good vascularity and enough subcutaneous fat tissue.
Even if one breast is healthy, your doctor may recommend the procedure for both breasts to maximize the symmetry and harmony between the two breasts. Patients should be aware that the surgeon will work to get the best results possible from this procedure but the patients must have realistic expectations that the mastectomy scars will remain and that their breasts will look much nicer after the procedure but will not look or feel exactly like they did before the mastectomy.
What are the benefits of a pre-pectoral reconstruction?
This surgical technique offers a simpler and less invasive approach with a shorter surgery time than a subcutaneous approach. The muscle is left intact, which will lead to less bleeding, less pain, and a faster recovery. The pre-pectoral reconstruction approach also reduces the occurrence of capsular contracture which is an implant complication that will result in the deformation of the breast and pain.
Since a pre-pectoral reconstruction involves the insertion of an implant, the results will be noticeable instantly after the second surgery where the tissue expander is replaced with an implant.
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