The present status of breast reconstruction following mastectomy in the female.

During the last 10 years increased interest has developed in reconstruction of the female breast following mastectomy. A number of methods of reconstruction are now available. These are immediate reconstruction by means of a silicone implant, delayed reconstruction by means of a silicon implant, use of local flaps with the silicone implant, and use of distant tissue and movement of tissue by microvascular anastomosis.The simplest and most efficient procedure is the one-stage reconstruction which consists of insertion of a silicone prosthesis approximately 6 months following the mastectomy. This can be combined, when necessary, with an elevation and reduction of the remaining breast and the reconstruction at the same time of an areolar and nipple complex.Reconstruction of the female breast in no way jeopardizes the survival of the patients. In addition, it may bring the patient to the surgeon sooner since the knowledge of reconstruction helps to reduce the woman's fear of mutilization.