Delayed Reconstruction
Delayed reconstruction is performed months to even years after mastectomy.
Treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy after surgery can cause the reconstructed breast to change colour, texture, volume, and appearance, therefore it is common for women to choose to wait to undergo reconstruction.
Things to know about delayed reconstruction:
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Commonality
Delayed reconstruction is more common than immediate reconstruction.
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Tumour-free
It is usually performed once you have completed your breast cancer treatment (including radiation and/or chemotherapy).
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Timeframe
It is usually planned at least 6 months after completion of radiation therapy in order to minimize the damage to the surrounding skin and breast tissue.