By Alexander Chase Castillo, M.D.
DHR Health Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Institute
Breast reconstruction after cancer is an individual choice as each patient undergoes a personalized oncologic treatment plan. Reconstruction can be a challenging topic to consider, given the already difficult situation at hand; however, numerous studies have been published that demonstrate an increase in quality of life for patients and an improved sense of ‘self’ after breast reconstruction.
In my experience, many reconstruction patients are happy they chose to undergo reconstruction and look forward to sharing their experience with patients in similar circumstances. Breast reconstruction is not necessary, but it is an opportunity for cancer-survivor patients to feel ‘whole’ again after a life-changing experience, as in surviving breast cancer. Depending on the cancer treatment undertaken, there may be different options available.
At the DHR Health Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Institute, we are able to provide multiple reconstruction options to our community, such as implant-based reconstruction or using the patient’s own tissue in reconstruction. These options are largely tailored to the patient’s previous oncologic treatment. Breast reconstruction is a journey that can be done at the same time as oncologic treatment (or shortly thereafter) or can be started years after cancer treatment. Some patients desire to have reconstruction right away, and some desire to wait until they are ready–and that’s OK, too!
One last topic that might cause patients to shy away from reconstruction is insurance coverage. In 1998, the United States government passed the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), which is a federal law that provides protection and coverage to patients who choose to have breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy. This law applies to both group-health plans and individual health-insurance policies.
To discuss breast reconstruction options or get more information from one of our experts, please call DHR Health Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Institute at (956) 362-8160.
