The timing of your reconstruction will depend on your unique set of circumstances. Many factors play a role in determining what surgery will best suit you and your reconstructive goals, including your cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, your physical anatomy and overall health.

Some patients may start their reconstruction process at the same time that their mastectomy is completed. This is known as immediate reconstruction, where a breast surgeon will perform the mastectomy, followed by a plastic surgeon that will start the reconstructive process. Other patients may end up waiting to start their reconstruction months to even years after mastectomy. This is known as delayed reconstruction. Delayed reconstruction is sometimes necessary if a patient has had radiation to the affected breast or is at high risk for radiation. This allows time for the breast tissue to soften and recover from the radiation. Still, other patients choose to wait to do reconstruction due to personal issues; such as waiting to be emotionally prepared for further surgery, fitting it into busy family schedules and getting time off of work. Dr. Burgess will assist you in creating a surgical timeline that suits you.

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