What to expect during a breast reconstruction consultation

Feb 6

Breast reconstruction is a deeply personal journey, often undertaken after a mastectomy or significant breast trauma. If you’re considering this procedure, understanding what to expect during your consultation can help ease any concerns and prepare you for the next steps.

The Purpose of a Consultation

Your breast reconstruction consultation is a critical first step in the process. Dr James Allan is a sensitive and compassionate doctor who has supported many women through post-cancer breast reconstruction.

Your initial consultation gives you a chance to meet Dr Allan and hopefully feel recognised and understood.

This appointment allows you to:

Understand your breast reconstruction options (outlined below)
Discuss your expectations and goals
Have a thorough health assessment
Learn about the risks, benefits and recovery process after a breast reconstruction procedure.

By the end of your consultation, you should feel well-informed and confident about your options moving forward.

Preparing Your Questions For The Consultation

To make the most of your consultation, you may wish to prepare a list of questions such as:

What type of breast reconstruction do you think is best for me?
How long will my recovery take?
What are the risks and potential complications?
Will my reconstructed breast feel natural?
How many procedures might I need?
What is the cost of the procedure and is it covered by insurance?

Understanding Breast Reconstruction Options

There are several approaches to breast reconstruction and the best choice for you will depend on factors such as your health, body type, and personal preferences.

Dr James Allan is a highly experienced breast reconstruction surgeon who takes the time to explain the various options, including:

Implant-based reconstruction, where silicone or saline implants are used to restore breast shape.
Autologous (flap) reconstruction, where tissue from another part of your body (such as the abdomen or thighs) is used to create a natural-looking breast.
Combination reconstruction, involving a mix of implants and autologous tissue for a tailored result.

Understanding these options allows you to make an informed decision about what’s right for you.

Initial Assessment: Evaluating Your Health

One of the key aspects of your consultation is the clinical examination. Dr Allan will:

Review your medical history to identify any conditions that may impact healing or increase surgical risks.
Discuss your previous treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and how these may affect reconstruction outcomes.
Examine your chest area, looking at skin quality, scars and remaining tissue.
Examine your potential donor sites

Based on this assessment, Dr Allan can tailor a surgical plan that aligns with your health needs and aesthetic goals.

Discussing Your Goals and Expectations

It can feel somewhat strange talking about how you’d like your breasts to look but it’s a very important conversation.

Dr Allan will ask several questions to help him understand what’s important to you. That includes asking about:

Your preferred breast size and shape
If you’re open to additional procedures to refine the results
How you feel about breast reconstruction surgery – your emotional and psychological readiness is an important consideration.
If reconstructing one side only, whether you’d like to match the unaffected side or consider reducing or augmenting it to achieve your desired shape.

Explanation of Procedures and Potential Risks

Breast reconstruction is a major procedure so it’s important to understand the risks and benefits. Dr Allan may:

Outline the main steps involved in your chosen reconstruction method
Discuss the potential risks, such as infection, scarring, implant complications or flap failure.
Explore the possibility of needing additional surgeries for adjustments or enhancements.

Please ask any questions you may have – this is your opportunity to get clarity on all aspects of the procedure.

Preparing For Surgery

To ensure you’re ready for surgery, Dr Allan may recommend:

Lifestyle adjustments, such as stopping smoking to promote better healing
Optimising your health with proper nutrition and exercise
Pre-surgical tests, such as blood work or imaging
Arranging support for post-surgery recovery, such as transportation and assistance at home.

Recovery Insights: What to Expect Post-Surgery

Recovery times vary based on the type of reconstruction. During your consultation, Dr Allan will outline:

The estimated healing time (typically a few weeks to months)
Activity restrictions, such as lifting limitations or time off work
Pain management strategies and medications
Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Emotional Support and Resources

Physical recovery is one thing…emotional adjustment is another. Breast reconstruction can have a significant psychological impact on some patients.

You may find it helpful to:

Join support groups to connect with others who have undergone reconstruction
Seek counselling to navigate your feelings about body image and recovery
Talk to an experienced breast care nurse or friend/family member who’s had breast reconstruction surgery.

It can take time to adjust to your reconstructed breast(s). You’ve been through a trauma, such as an injury or cancer. And then you’ve been through major surgery which has changed your body.

It may take 3-12 months after your breast reconstruction surgery for you to feel at ease with your body.

How can Dr James Allan help?

If you’re considering breast reconstruction, scheduling a consultation is the best way to start your journey. As a highly skilled plastic surgeon who has conducted a substantial number of breast reconstructions, Dr James Allan is here to guide you through the process, providing outstanding care and support tailored to your needs.

Please book your consultation today.

Disclaimer

Dr James Allan (MED0001204818), Registered medical practitioner, specialist registration in plastic surgery. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Results may vary. A second opinion may help you decide if a particular treatment is right for you.

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