Reconstruction after removal of tumor

stokerfan

I had a lumpectomy done instead of a mastectomy. Where the tumor was removed is an indentation (guess that is what I want to call it). It is about 3 inches I guess. I've heard of reconstruction for complete breast removal but does anyone know if I can have one for my problem?

Beesie

Yes, reconstruction can be done after a lumpectomy.

Here is the information from BCO about this: https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/reconstruction/types/lumpectomy

When did you have your lumpectomy? Often it takes time for the breast tissue to rearrange itself and fill in gaps, so if your surgery wasn't too long ago, you should wait a bit because the appearance of your breast might improve on it's own. But if it doesn't, reconstruction can be done.

stokerfan

I had it done back on Feb 6th. I will talk to the doctor on the 19th when I see him. Thanks

MinusTwo

Stoker - I think Beesie is talking about a few months, not a few weeks. It's hard to be patient.

stokerfan

Yes it is

AliceBastable

The timing might also might depend on if you're going to have radiation.

OnTarget

I feel like they said that insurance only covers reconstruction for mastectomies, not lumpectomies. Is that correct?

I feel like that contributed to my mastectomy decision at the time...

stokerfan

I would have to check with my insurance company on this.

stokerfan

Didn't think about that.