What is Delayed Breast Reconstruction?
If you’ve had, or are planning to have a mastectomy, one of the biggest decisions to consider is whether, and when, to have breast reconstruction. While some women choose to have reconstruction at the same time as their mastectomy, others may wait. This is known as delayed breast reconstruction, and for many patients, it offers a flexible path to rebuilding confidence and body image after cancer treatment.
In this blog, we’ll look at what delayed reconstruction involves, why some women choose it over immediate surgery, and how Mr Nigel Horlock supports patients through this personal journey.
What does delayed reconstruction mean?
Delayed breast reconstruction refers to having reconstructive surgery weeks, months, or even years after a mastectomy. This approach gives patients time to focus on their cancer treatment and recovery.
Some patients know from the start that they want reconstruction but opt to delay it because of upcoming treatments like radiotherapy, which can affect the skin and tissue around the chest. Others aren’t sure what kind of reconstruction they want, or whether they want it at all, and prefer to revisit the decision once the dust has settled.
Why choose delayed over immediate reconstruction?
There are several medical and emotional reasons why delayed reconstruction could be the best option.
From a clinical point of view, delayed reconstruction avoids any complications from surgery interfering with ongoing cancer treatment. If you need radiotherapy or chemotherapy after your mastectomy, it’s often better to let those treatments finish before going ahead with reconstruction. This helps to ensure that the reconstruction site isn’t compromised by radiation and gives your body the best chance to heal.
It also allows for a clearer assessment of the chest area after treatment. In some cases, scarring or skin changes only become fully visible months down the line, and planning reconstruction after these changes have settled can lead to a more tailored and successful outcome.
From an emotional perspective, the delayed approach gives patients more time to consider their options. Breast reconstruction is a deeply personal decision and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some women feel ready to make that choice straight away, while others need time to process everything they’ve been through and decide what they want for their body going forward.
What are the options for delayed reconstruction?
The surgical options for delayed reconstruction are similar to those used in immediate procedures. You may choose to have implant-based reconstruction, where a tissue expander is used to gradually stretch the skin before placing a breast implant. Alternatively, you may prefer autologous reconstruction, which uses tissue from another part of your body, such as the abdomen or back, to recreate a natural-looking breast. For 86% of patients in one study, restoration of the body image was the most important aspect, irrespective of the type of reconstruction.
Each method has its pros and cons, and your choice will depend on factors like your medical history, body shape, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Mr Nigel Horlock has extensive experience in all forms of breast reconstruction, and he’ll talk you through your options in detail, helping you choose the approach that fits best with your needs and goals.
Book a consultation to explore your options
One of the most empowering aspects of delayed breast reconstruction is that there’s no strict timeline. Whether you’re exploring your options soon after a mastectomy or thinking about surgery years later, Mr Nigel Horlock will guide you with empathy, expertise, and personalised care every step of the way.
If you’re considering reconstruction but aren’t sure when, or how, to take the next step, call 02380 764969 to book a consultation with Mr Horlock to explore your options and make a plan that works for you.
