Gangnam Breast Reconstruction: If you don't know ‘this’, it will take longer. Pain, scars, and recovery period.

Gangnam Breast Reconstruction: If you don't know ‘this’, it will take longer. Pain, scars, and recovery period.

Hello. I am Dr. Kim Ju-won, the chief director of Melon Plastic Surgery, a breast specialist with solutions for beauty.

Breast reconstruction is an area in breast surgery that requires the most delicate techniques. Externally, it is about restoring the breast, but internally, it is also a process of healing emotional wounds, and ultimately, it is a very important process that leads to a better life. Therefore, surgical techniques are necessary, but a deep understanding of the psychological aspect is also greatly required.

‘Can I regain my former appearance after reconstruction?’‘Should I have the surgery as soon as possible?’

If there is one difference between breast reconstruction surgery and breast augmentation surgery, it would be the desire to ‘be myself again’. Therefore, breast reconstruction is a surgery that restores collapsed and distorted forms, and at the same time, a plan to re-establish the balance of body and mind.

The attitude of the medical staff towards breast reconstruction is also slightly different. They proceed with the surgery with completion in mind rather than speed. This is because for reconstruction, ‘properly’ comes before ‘quickly’.

Today, I will continue to talk about breast reconstruction.

Breast Reconstruction | Implants vs. Autologous Tissue, which surgical method is right for me?

Breast reconstruction surgery is largely divided into two methods: reconstruction using implants, and reconstruction using one's own tissue (autologous tissue). If there is a better method between the two, it would be the one that suits my condition.

This is because the most appropriate surgery for my current condition is the best surgery. Therefore, in reconstruction, it is important to examine the current condition through communication with the medical staff and discuss the surgery. Whether surgery is possible, which surgery is better, and when is the best time for surgery cannot be determined without examining the current condition.

As I mentioned earlier, there are two methods for breast reconstruction. In the case of implant reconstruction, the surgery time is relatively short, and the recovery speed is also fast. However, there are cases where surgery cannot be performed depending on the treatment history, such as radiation therapy, and the duration of treatment.

Autologous tissue reconstruction is a surgical method that uses muscles from the abdomen or back. The advantage is that the results are more natural because one's own tissue is used, but since an incision is also made in the tissue harvesting area, more scars may occur, and the pattern of pain and recovery period may also differ.

Breast reconstruction surgery can also be divided according to the timing of the surgery: immediate reconstruction and delayed reconstruction. Immediate reconstruction means performing it simultaneously with breast cancer surgery. It is called immediate reconstruction because it is performed immediately.

Delayed reconstruction refers to surgery performed after the cancer treatment is completed. The timing is determined by assessing the possibility based on whether chemotherapy, such as radiation, has been received and the condition of the treated tissue.

Breast Reconstruction | Incision and Suture to Reduce Surgical Scars

‘Will I have a big scar?’‘Is the recovery period for reconstruction longer?’

Scars are an unavoidable factor in breast reconstruction surgery. However, the extent of scarring can vary depending on the incision location and suturing method. Reconstruction is ultimately about restoring the breast, which falls within the realm of plastic surgery. Naturally, we consider the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing shape and line that can be achieved from the current state.

Scars are also an important consideration. Usually, existing incision sites are used. The mastectomy line is used to reduce additional incision scars, and incisions are made along the skin folds to conceal scars.

The suturing method is also important. The skin is a tissue composed of multiple layers. Therefore, suturing is meticulously performed in multiple layers from the inside of the skin. This method of suturing is called multi-layer suturing. It helps to distribute the tension applied to the skin surface, thereby inhibiting the thickening of scars.

Post-operative scar management is also a contributing factor. For some time after surgery, it is advisable to keep the wound area dry and use scar ointment according to the medical staff's guidance. Excessive movement, alcohol consumption, or smoking can delay scar recovery, so moderation is recommended.

Breast Reconstruction | Individual Differences in Recovery

Although it is called by a single surgical name, breast reconstruction, the approach and surgical method differ depending on the case. For example, if a patient has undergone mastectomy and radiation therapy, and the skin tissue has hardened and cannot stretch, a tissue expander can be used.

By using an expander to gradually stretch the hardened skin and observing the tissue's response, a multi-stage approach to reconstruction surgery can be considered. This surgical method is called staged reconstruction. There are also individual differences in recovery speed and duration.

Recovery patterns may vary depending on the individual's treatment history, current breast condition, and skin and blood flow status. In most cases, pain may be felt for the first 2-3 days after surgery but tends to gradually subside. However, if there is a history of radiation therapy, tissue recovery may be slower compared to cases without such a history.

Breast Reconstruction | Communication for More Precise Diagnosis and Surgery

The most important thing in breast reconstruction surgery is sufficient communication with your primary physician.

All conversations during the consultation process, including the history of breast cancer treatment, current condition, and desired image, not only make the surgery more precise but also help reduce any unforeseen variables.

Thoroughly understanding pre- and post-operative precautions and observing the body's signals during the recovery period also contributes to better results.

If you are considering breast reconstruction or have unresolved concerns, please share them with your primary physician. Reconstruction is about understanding your body, aligning with your body's timeline, and choosing the best direction for your body – as a solution for beautiful breasts, we will accompany you on your breast journey.

Thank you.