Medically reviewed by David Bogue, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time to support those affected by breast cancer and help patients understand the choices available to them.
If a mastectomy is part of your treatment plan, you may wonder when to speak with a plastic surgeon about breast reconstruction. Do you need to decide before surgery? Can reconstruction wait? What if you are unsure whether you want it?
You do not need to arrive at your consultation with those answers. The purpose of the conversation is to understand your options.
Start the conversation before your mastectomy when possible
If you are considering reconstruction, ask your breast surgeon about meeting with a plastic surgeon before your mastectomy. This gives your care team an opportunity to discuss how reconstruction could fit into your treatment.
Reconstruction may begin during the mastectomy operation, called immediate reconstruction, or take place later, called delayed reconstruction. An early consultation does not commit you to either approach. National Cancer Institute
Your cancer treatment helps guide the timing
The need for radiation, your health, and the condition of the tissues can influence the reconstruction plan.
At his Boca Raton practice, Dr. David Bogue works with the breast surgeon to coordinate planning. His practice primarily focuses on implant-based reconstruction. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve placing an implant during the mastectomy or using a temporary tissue expander followed by an implant at a later operation.
You can learn more about these approaches on our breast reconstruction page.
It may not be too late if you have already had a mastectomy
Reconstruction can sometimes be considered months or years after mastectomy. A consultation can help clarify what is possible based on your previous treatment, current health, and goals. Choosing to wait does not automatically mean giving up the option. National Cancer Institute
Bring your questions—not a predetermined decision
Useful questions to discuss include:
- How would my cancer treatment affect reconstruction?
- Which options fit my circumstances, and why?
- Would treatment involve more than one operation?
- What should I understand about recovery, risks, and changes in sensation?
- If another reconstructive approach would suit me better, would a referral be recommended?
Bring the information you have about your planned or completed treatment, along with a list of your concerns. You can also ask whether a trusted support person may join the discussion.
Reconstruction is a personal choice
Some patients choose reconstruction. Others choose an external breast prosthesis or decide to remain flat. The conversation should respect your preferences without assuming that surgery is the right choice for everyone. National Cancer Institute
Discuss your options with Dr. Bogue
David Bogue, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon providing breast reconstruction consultations in Boca Raton.
To discuss reconstruction planning or options after a previous mastectomy, request a consultation or call 561-886-1000.