Imaging of the Reconstructed Breast.

The incidence of breast cancer and, therefore, the need for breast reconstruction are expected to increase. The many reconstructive options available and the changing aspects of the field make this a complex area of plastic surgery, requiring knowledge and expertise. Two major types of breast reconstruction can be distinguished: breast implants and autologous flaps.

Long-term quality-of-life assessment following one-stage immediate breast reconstruction using biodimensional expander implants: the patient's perspective.

Background: Biodimensional devices may provide a superior breast form when an implant is considered for immediate breast reconstruction for breast cancer. The authors prospectively report patient perception of outcome using a permanent anatomical expander implant following a planned one-stage procedure.

Methods: The Quality of Life Questionnaire BR-23 was modified to measure body image perception, physical effects, cancer worry, and surgical choice.

Evaluation of outcome after immediate breast reconstruction: prospective comparison of four methods.

Background: Little is known about the association among different methods to assess outcome following breast reconstruction. The aim of this study was to comprehensively compare four distinct methods of outcome evaluation following immediate breast reconstruction.

Methods: There were 102 women who were prospectively evaluated: 46 patients had submuscular implants, and 56 patients had implant-assisted latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction.

Immediate breast reconstruction using biodimensional anatomical permanent expander implants: a prospective analysis of outcome and patient satisfaction.

Immediate breast reconstruction is offered to the majority of women requiring a mastectomy for cancer treatment. Improvements in implant technology have seen the evolution of shaped, fixed-volume implants and permanent expanders. The theoretical benefits of biodimensional anatomical expander implants include better reconstructed breast form, the potential for achieving this at a single procedure, and the avoidance of a contralateral procedure as a result of improved ipsilateral cosmesis.