ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION The offer of immediate breast reconstruction to a woman undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer is usually viewed as “good news” at an emotionally traumatic time in her life. Breast reconstruction significantly reduces the psychological morbidity associated with mastectomy with improvements in emotional, social and functional well-being (1-4). In addition, the practical advantage of not wearing an external prosthesis, with its potential for discomfort and inconvenience, is an added benefit (5). Nonetheless, the decision whether or not to undertake reconstruction remains a matter for individual choice and the patient herself has the final say. Reconstruction does not enhance survival or impact on mortality, but it ameliorates some of the associated psychological morbidity. Unlike procedures such as breast augmentation, it should not be regarded as a “cosmetic” operation.
