TUESDAY TIDINGS - Advantages of Immediate Breast Reconstruction

I read an interesting article that I thought I'd pass along. The article is found at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.

The article showed results from a study on Immediate Breast Reconstruction. It's important to note here, that the reconstructions were mainly done using tissues from the abdominal area (TRAM flaps). Here are a few quotes from the article:

"The outcomes of immediate breast reconstruction were analyzed, focusing on complication rates, timing of other cancer treatments and cosmetic results. The goal was to determine whether the proven benefits of immediate reconstruction were justified in terms of the risks and possible adverse effects."

The article listed several advantages for immediate reconstruction over delayed reconstruction:

1. Improved cosmetic outcomes
2. Shorter recovery time
3. Decreased costs
4. An important coping mechanism associated with improved quality of life
5. A reduced risk of depression.

"The results suggest that immediate reconstruction is safe and well tolerated by patients, and does not lead to an increased risk of complications. Delays in further treatment appear comparable to those of women undergoing mastectomy alone. The study also suggests that a "vast majority" of women experience no or only minor complications related to radiation therapy."

If you'd like to read the entire article, click HERE.