What is the purpose of breast reconstruction surgery?

Breast reconstruction surgery is primarily aimed at restoring the shape, appearance, and symmetry of the breast after a mastectomy, which is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or both breasts, typically due to breast cancer. This type of surgery helps to provide a sense of normalcy and self-esteem for individuals who have undergone a mastectomy.

Reconstruction can be performed immediately following the mastectomy or can be delayed to a later date, depending on the patient's needs and treatment plans. The various techniques employed in breast reconstruction can include the use of implants or the transfer of tissue from other parts of the body, and the goal is to create a breast that closely resembles the natural breast in size and shape.

Improving breast health, removing cancerous tissue, and preventing breast cancer are not the primary objectives of breast reconstruction surgery. These issues relate more to treatment and preventive strategies in managing breast cancer rather than the aesthetic and psychological aspects that reconstruction addresses. Hence, focusing on restoring the appearance and shape post-mastectomy accurately captures the central purpose of the procedure.