What options after mastectomy?

1. After an amputation, you have three options:either an external breast prosthesis, breast reconstruction, or doing nothing. Some women have a tattoo placed where the breast was.

2. After breast cancer treatment, you usually don't have to decide right away what you want: reconstruction or prosthesis. Unless you are suggested to already have a tissue expander in situ, which stretches your skin with a view to a later reconstruction. However, it is often recommended to start with a provisional external prosthesis after mastectomy. This gives the wound time to heal properly. You can always opt for reconstruction later.

3. An external prosthesis consists of a silicone mixture with a flexible sleeve that you put into a custom bra.Such a bra has a sleeve into which you can place the external prosthesis, so that it does not move.

4. A prosthesis or reconstruction allows you to have good posture, which reduces the risk of back pain.

5. A breast prosthesis is reimbursed by the health insurance fund. The health insurance fund reimburses both the provisional and the definitive prosthesis at a standard price. Those who choose a more expensive prosthesis pay a supplement.

6. It is not always possible to do both amputation and reconstruction in the same surgery. It is not impossible, but usually you are advised not to have it done at one time.

7. The breast implant inserted during breast reconstruction usually does not last a lifetime. You run the risk of having to replace the implant after a decade or so.

8. Breast reconstruction with your own tissue,usually from the abdomen or buttock, is a heavier operation than the mastectomy itself and requires a long rehabilitation.

9. The nipple can be reconstructed, but unfortunately remains insensitive.

10. A new, reconstructed breast can never replace the lost breast. Much progress has been made, but you will always see a difference.

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