Those of us who need -- or choose -- a total or radical mastectomy will probably consider having that breast 'rebuilt' through breast reconstruction.

Breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction can be done either during your surgery or at a future time, and are generally made from your own tissues or by using implants filled with saline. (Because of the controversies over the potential dangers of silicone breast implants, the US Food and Drug Administration will only allow silicone breast implants to be used in clinical trials).

Whether to reconstruct and how is a decision each of us needs to make for ourselves, along with input from our support network, our oncologist and other medical professionals such as a plastic surgeon.

Share your experience!

If you've had a breast removed and have had -- or decided not to have -- reconstructive surgery, share your experience. Telling your story will help others when it comes time for them to make this important decision.

See also

• Breast cancer - introduction
• Breast cancer - prevalence
• Breast cancer - prevention
• Breast cancer - causes and risk factors
• Breast cancer - detection and diagnosis
• Breast cancer - treatment options
• Breast cancer - prognosis
• Building a support network