A diagnosis of breast cancer and the subsequent treatments, such as mastectomy or lumpectomy, can bring profound physical and emotional changes. For many women, breast reconstruction surgery in Birmingham offers a positive and empowering step towards restoring their physical form, sense of wholeness, and confidence. Mr Jamie Vatish, an experienced consultant oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgeon, provides comprehensive breast reconstruction services in Birmingham.
What is breast reconstruction surgery?
Breast reconstruction surgery recreates the shape of a breast after removal surgery. This could be full (mastectomy) or partial removal (lumpectomy) due to cancer or other conditions. It is a highly individualised set of procedures tailored to each patient’s unique circumstances, body type, cancer treatment plan and personal preferences. The primary goals of breast reconstruction are to restore a breast mound and also to achieve symmetry with the remaining breast (if applicable), create a natural-looking appearance in and out of clothing and help patients feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies after cancer treatment.
When is breast reconstruction performed?
You can discuss and decide the best timing for your breast reconstruction surgery in Birmingham with your breast surgeon and oncology team. There are generally two main options:
Immediate Reconstruction
This is performed at the same time as the mastectomy. Once the breast surgeon has removed the breast tissue, the reconstructive surgeon (often the same oncoplastic breast surgeon like Mr Vatish) begins the reconstruction in the same operation. Advantages can include a single surgical procedure and anaesthetic, and for some women, a potentially better cosmetic outcome and a more positive psychological adjustment as they do not experience a period without a breast mound.
Delayed Reconstruction
As the name suggests, this reconstruction is at a later date. This may be months or even years after the mastectomy and any other necessary cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy. This approach allows patients to focus entirely on their cancer treatment first and gives them more time to consider their reconstructive options without pressure. It also allows any effects of radiotherapy on the skin and chest wall to settle.
Exploring breast reconstruction options
As a specialist in oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery, Mr Jamie Vatish offers a range of techniques. The choice of method depends on many factors, including the amount of tissue removed, the quality of the remaining skin, previous or planned radiotherapy, body type, and patient preference.
Implant-Based Reconstruction
This is one of the most common methods. It involves using breast implants to create the new breast shape.
Tissue Expanders followed by Permanent Implants
Often, a temporary inflatable implant called a tissue expander is placed under the skin and chest muscle at the time of mastectomy. Over several weeks or months, saline is gradually injected into the expander to stretch the overlying skin and muscle, creating a pocket for a permanent implant. In a second, smaller operation, the expander is removed and replaced with a permanent silicone implant.
Direct-to-Implant Reconstruction
In selected cases, your surgeon may opt for a permanent implant at the same time as the mastectomy. This removes the need for a tissue expander. This is often possible when there is enough healthy skin remaining.
Autologous (Own Tissue) Reconstruction / Flap Reconstruction
This type of reconstruction uses skin, fat, and sometimes muscle transferred from another part of your body (a “flap”) to create the new breast mound.
Latissimus Dorsi (LD) Flap
This uses skin, fat, and muscle from your upper back. The flap remains connected to its original blood supply and is tunnelled under the skin to the chest. Your surgeon may opt for this procedure alone or combined with an implant to add volume.
Abdominal Flaps (e.g., DIEP or TRAM flap)
These advanced microsurgical techniques use skin and fat from the lower abdomen to reconstruct the breast. The DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap preserves abdominal muscle strength. These flaps provide a natural, warm feel and can change with your body weight, like a natural breast.
Taking the next step for Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Birmingham
Breast reconstruction surgery can be a vital part of recovery after breast cancer. If you would like to learn more about your options for breast reconstruction surgery in Birmingham, please contact Mr Vatish’s secretary, Elizabeth Nelson, to schedule a consultation.