Traditional medical opinion states that women with metastatic breast cancer are not candidates for breast reconstruction. Once metastases are diagnosed (stage 4 breast cancer), attention turns solely to aggressive medical treatment to prolong life. Breast reconstruction is typically no longer discussed as an option. At least that was the consensus up until fairly recently. Opinions have started to change over the last few years.
While we are still losing the battle with stage 4 breast cancer, some women with stable metastatic disease are interested in pursuing breast reconstruction. As long as these patients have stable, unchanged disease that is medically controlled for some time, and they have the approval of their medical oncologist, the psycho-social and quality of life benefits that breast reconstruction can provide should not be ignored. Breast reconstruction should still be discussed and considered in interested, appropriate candidates.
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Dr Chrysopoulo is a breast reconstruction surgeon and microsurgeon in San Antonio, TX, specializing in state-of-the-art breast reconstruction procedures . He is in-network for most US insurance plans. Patients are welcomed from across and outside the US. Please call (800) 692-5565 or email patientadvocate@PRMAplasticsurgery.com to learn more about your breast reconstruction options. Connect with Dr C on Twitter and Facebook.
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