Have you had a mastectomy or a lumpectomy? It can be extremely traumatic for many different reasons, but you should know that breast reconstruction is an option if you decide you would like to go that route. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to discuss breast reconstruction surgery with your doctor to help you decide if it’s the right decision for you.

Some things to know about breast reconstruction surgery

Every patient is different, of course, and you and your doctor can discuss your options and what each of them involves. But here are a few things to think about:

1. The decision on what (if anything) you want to do about having a breast rebuilt is up to you, and you don’t have to rush the decision. Some women opt to have reconstruction done at the time of mastectomy, while others wait until any treatment they have to undergo is complete. Reconstruction can be done months or even years after surgery to remove cancer.

2. If you would like to have breast implants, there are two types: saline and silicone. Your doctor will go over the pros and cons of each and help you decide which one might be right for you.

3. Even if you’ve only had one breast affected by cancer, the reconstruction procedure may include surgery on the other breast as well so that the breasts are the same size and shape.

4. Having breast reconstruction won’t increase the odds that cancer will reoccur in the future, and it won’t make it more difficult to check for cancer in the future.

5. Reaching out to other women who have had breast reconstruction (or those who have opted against it) can be invaluable (plus, it can give you the support you need when you are trying to make a decision!).

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect reminder to check your breast health – but it’s also a time to celebrate survival and think about the future. If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, contact the office of Dr. Alfonso Barrera in Houston for a consultation. Call (713) 468-5200 today!