Breast Reconstruction

Learn about the types of breast reconstruction and what to expect before, during and after surgery. View Breast Cancer Comics focusing on breast reconstruction, from TRAM flaps to implants to breast prostheses.

After Mastectomy or Lumpectomy

Breast Reconstruction FAQs
Choosing breast reconstruction (or no reconstruction) is about feeling normal and healthy, even though you’ve lost your breast or part of your breast.

Breast Reconstruction FAQs

Breast Reconstruction FAQs: What Are My Choices After Mastectomy?
Expert Patient PJ Hamel discusses the pros and cons of breast reconstruction and prosthesis options.
Breast Reconstruction FAQs: Choosing Breast Implants
I’m having a mastectomy, and I’ve decided on an implant afterwards. Now I have to decide whether to have the it done right away, or wait. Help!
Breast Reconstruction FAQs: Body Tissue Reconstruction
I’ve decided on breast reconstruction after my mastectomy, and I’d like them to use my own body tissue, rather than an implant.

What If I Don't Want More Surgery?

Breast Reconstruction FAQs: Opting for a Prosthesis (Breast Form) After Surgery

Post-Mastectomy Care: Expert Patient PJ Hamel discusses how to choose a breast form or prosthesis.

Find out more >>

Perspective: Saying No to More Surgery

Why Do So Few of Us Opt for Reconstruction?
Despite vast improvements in reconstruction, positive surgical outcomes, and the fact that federal law mandates insurers pick up the tab for it, fewer than 20% of women undergoing mastectomy choose reconstruction. Why?

Reconstruction After Lumpectomy

Watch a Video on Partial Reconstruction

My Reconstructed Breasts + Nipples

Bilateral Mastectomy + Sentinel Node Removal + Reconstruction + Tummy Tuck: First Thoughts, Post-Op
Laura Zigman describes her TRAM flap surgery in full detail.
Putting on the Finishing Touches: Nipples
At first, Laura kept canceling her appointments to discuss nipple reconstruction. More surgery seemed unfathomable. Learn what happened after Laura chose to have her nipples reconstructed.
Life After Mastectomy: Adjusting to Reconstruction
Jeannette Vagnozzi, who chose saline implants after double mastectomy, offers tips on adjusting to a new body.
Life After Mastectomy: Nipple Reconstruction
Learn why nipple reconstruction after getting saline implants mattered to Jeanette Vagnozzi.

Font size
- A
- A
- A
Email This
Bookmark
Save

What Do They Look Like?

Show and Smile: Breast Reconstruction

PJ Hamel, who had a mastectomy and tram-flap reconstruction, explains why she has no problem lifting her shirt to a perfect stranger and showing the results.

Find out more >>