Who Is a Good Candidate Surgery?
It’s important to note that candidates for after breast reconstruction surgery must meet a list of requirements before they can schedule their surgery. First, it’s important to be in good overall physical and mental health. If, for any reason, you are in poor health, the reconstruction procedure may exacerbate symptoms and put you at risk. This is especially true if you continue to require ongoing treatment for breast cancer or any other form of cancer or medical condition. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy should be completed before you even consider reconstruction surgery. Next, keep in mind that smoking puts you at added risk when it comes to any type of surgery, including reconstruction. If you are a smoker, speak with Dr. Mohan about quitting before scheduling your procedure. It’s also important to be at a healthy weight. Those who are overweight or obese will face added risks as well. Finally, remember that although reconstruction surgery can certainly help you feel more like yourself again and restore the overall shape and size of your breasts, this procedure will not bring your breasts back to exactly the way they were prior to your mastectomy. There will be some changes that you will have to adjust to. Having realistic expectations about the procedure will set you up for success. For an idea of what to expect when it comes to this type of surgery, take a look at some reconstruction before and after photographs.