Understanding Mastectomy with Implant and Reconstruction in the UAE

For women facing a mastectomy, the option of breast reconstruction offers a path to regaining both form and confidence. In the UAE, advanced techniques and skilled surgeons are available to support women through this journey. This blog post delves into the details of Mastectomy with implant and reconstruction UAE, exploring the available options and what to expect.

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to rebuild a breast's shape after a mastectomy (removal of the breast). It can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or later (delayed reconstruction). The goal is to create a breast that closely resembles the natural breast in appearance and size.

Types of Breast Reconstruction

There are primarily two types of breast reconstruction:

1. Implant Reconstruction: This involves using silicone or saline implants to create the new breast mound. Implants can be placed directly under the chest muscle or after a tissue expander has gradually stretched the skin and muscle.

2. Autologous Tissue Reconstruction: This method uses tissue from other parts of the body (such as the abdomen, back, thighs, or buttocks) to create the new breast. This tissue, called a flap, can be transferred to the chest area while keeping its original blood supply (pedicled flap) or by reconnecting blood vessels using microsurgery (free flap).

Implant Reconstruction: A Closer Look

Implant reconstruction typically involves a two-stage process:

• Stage 1: Tissue Expander Placement: A tissue expander is inserted under the chest muscle or skin. Over time, saline is injected into the expander to gradually stretch the tissue.
• Stage 2: Implant Placement: Once the tissue has expanded sufficiently, the tissue expander is removed and replaced with a permanent implant.

Autologous Tissue Reconstruction: Using Your Body's Own Tissue

Autologous tissue reconstruction offers a natural-looking and feeling result. Common flap procedures include:

• DIEP Flap: This procedure uses skin and fat from the abdomen, without taking any muscle tissue.
• Latissimus Dorsi (LD) Flap: This involves using tissue from the upper back, along with a small portion of muscle.
• TRAM Flap: Similar to the DIEP flap but includes muscle from the abdomen.

Other flap options include the SIEA flap, IGAP flap, PAP flap, SGAP flap, and TUG flap, each utilizing tissue from different areas of the body.

Nipple and Areola Reconstruction

If the nipple and areola were removed during the mastectomy, they can be reconstructed in a later stage. This can involve tattooing to create the areola and using skin flaps to create the nipple.

New Developments in Breast Reconstruction

• Oncoplastic Surgery: This approach combines breast cancer surgery with plastic surgery techniques to reshape the breast during the initial cancer surgery.
• Autologous Fat Grafting: Fat is harvested from other parts of the body via liposuction, processed, and injected into the reconstructed breast to improve its shape and appearance.

Finding the Right Specialist in the UAE

Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for a successful breast reconstruction. Dr. Haytham El Salhat is an experienced specialist in the UAE who can provide personalized guidance and perform advanced breast reconstruction procedures.

If you are considering Mastectomy with implant and reconstruction UAE, consulting with a qualified surgeon is the first step toward making an informed decision and achieving the best possible outcome.