By. H.W. Mark Miller IV, M.D.

Special to The Pilot

Breast reconstruction is a type of -surgery for women who have had a -mastectomy.

This surgery rebuilds the breast so that it is about the same size and shape as before. The nipple and the areola, the darker area around the nipple, can also be added.

Breast reconstruction is performed by a plastic -surgeon. Reconstruction is possible immediately -following breast removal so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place.

Reconstruction has no known effect on the recurrence of breast cancer, and does not generally interfere with chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

Some women who postpone reconstruction go through a period of emotional stress. It takes time to get used to the loss of a breast and you may feel anxious as you begin to think of reconstruction of your own breast

While reconstruction cannot restore normal sensation to your breast, some feeling may return over time. Most scars will fade over time, but will not totally disappear.

Reconstructed breasts may feel firmer and look rounder or flatter than your -normal breast. But the differences will be apparent only to you. Most patients state that it has dramatically improved their appearance and quality of life following surgery.

In any case, being informed prior to -surgery can help you prepare for a more positive outlook for the future.

H.W. Mark Miller IV, M.D., practices at Fayetteville Plastic Surgery. Find out more about breast reconstruction by -calling (910) 323-1203 or visiting www.FayPlasticSurgery.com.