Reconstructive Surgery and Postoperative Care for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Breast cancer patients are commonly seen by Plastic and Reconstructive surgeons, as nearly half of all women who undergo mastectomy also receive breast reconstruction. The benefits of breast reconstruction after mastectomy include improved quality of life, body image, psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being, and patient satisfaction. Implant-based breast reconstruction is the most common method of breast reconstruction in the United States, followed by autologous reconstruction. Complications and functional deficits and may arise postoperatively depending on risk factors, reconstructive technique, postoperative care, and rehabilitation. Utilization of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery protocols can help minimize the length of hospital stay and decrease reliance on narcotic pain medication without increasing morbidity. Involvement of physical therapists in the pre- and postoperative period may help patients return to their baseline level of activity with minimal functional deficit.