The terms “breast reconstruction” and “boob job” are often used interchangeably in today’s society. However, it is important to note that they are not the same thing. In fact, many women who have undergone breast reconstruction will probably get offended if you call their procedure a boob job.
According to renowned Florida plastic surgeon, Dr. John B. Fasano, “Breast reconstruction is a procedure that attempt to restore the breasts to near normal appearance, size and shape after a person has undergone a mastectomy. A boob job, or breast augmenation, is a procedure that is performed to enhance the size of the breasts. This procedure can also be used to improve the symmetry of the breasts.”
Technical Differences:Surgery and Recovery
In most cases, breast reconstruction is done immediately after a woman gets her mastectomy. Plastic surgeons begin the reconstruction process by placing temporary tissue expanders in place. They are filled over the course of a couple of weeks. The surgeon will then have to wait a couple of months in order to allow time for the skin to stretch slowly. After the skin has stretched, the tissue expanders will be removed, and the implants will be placed.
There are several things that can delay breast reconstruction. Some of those things include side effects of the cancer treatment, skin damage and personal preference. Additionally, some women choose to not undergo breast reconstruction at all for personal preferences.
Breast reconstruction is a lengthier procedure than breast augmentation. A woman is more likely to have complications during and after a breast reconstruction. Furthermore, it takes patients longer to recover from breast augmentation. One similarity between breast reconstruction and breast augmentation is that the results can vary from woman to woman.
Personal Testament: Choices and Emotions
Lisa Duncanson, who is a law teacher residing in Orange County, is one of the many people who would most likely be offended if you call breast reconstruction a boob job. She underwent breast reconstruction after she had a mastectomy due to breast cancer. Before her surgery, she had undergone radiation treatment and chemotherapy.
Duncanson’s breast reconstruction began about four years ago, and it still is not completely finished. Duncanson suffered complications during her breast reconstruction surgery. The chemotherapy and radiation treatment that she has received make it harder for her to heal.
Duncanson’s breasts are still a work in progress. She has had infections and been hospitalized as the result of the complications that she had from her procedure. Duncanson stated that all women should be aware of the possible risks that could happen if they choose to undergo breast reconstruction. Additionally, she sometimes asks herself if all that she is going through is really worth it.
More publicly, Angelina Jolie made headlines early in 2013 when she decided to get a mastectomy. Even though she did not cancer, she had an elevated risk of developing the condition because of her family history. Her mother, grandmother and aunt passed away from the condition. She underwent breast reconstruction after she got her mastectomy.
Dr. John B. Fasano is experienced in both breast augmentation and breast reconstruction procedures. He develops unique care plans for each of his patients at his Stuart, Florida practice. Check out his office’s Facebook page for more information.
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