Immediate Versus Delayed Breast Reconstruction for Postmastectomy Patients. Controversies and Solutions

Abstract

When considering breast reconstruction, two main decisions have to be made: optimal timing and appropriate reconstruction technique,that would best suit each patient, while also taking into consideration the complications and risks that these decisions might lead to. By careful patient selection and individualized breast reconstruction approach, the risks and complications of the procedure can be minimized, while attaining successful aesthetic outcomes and high patient satisfaction. Breast reconstruction can be performed in three different settings: immediate reconstruction - at the time of mastectomy; delayed reconstruction " after the completion of the adjuvant treatment and in a delayed-immediate setting that uses both previous methods" includes tissue expansion at the time of mastectomy and definitive reconstruction performed after completion of the adjuvant treatment. The strategies perfected for decades in breast reconstructive surgery have now made breast reconstruction more possible than ever, thus offering patients the chance to recover after a mastectomy procedure with a new reconstructed breast. Although, the choice of breast reconstruction is not adressed by all breast cancer patients, rates are gradually expanding while new and improved techniques are rapidly developing.

Keywords: breastcancer; breastimplant; breastreconstruction; mastectomy; skin-sparing.