Breast reconstruction surgery means meticulous craftsmanship by experienced surgeons

Breast reconstruction surgery is a technically demanding and major procedure. The operation is planned carefully, and the patient’s wishes and needs are always taken into account. The surgeons’ extensive experience and state-of-the-art methods enable even the most demanding microsurgical techniques. The oncologist, radiologist and nuclear medicine physician are also closely involved in the planning of the surgery.

Examples of typical patients undergoing breast reconstruction surgery include:

• A patient for whom breast-conserving cancer surgery is not possible and the entire breast must be removed.
• A patient who has previously undergone breast removal surgery and later decides to have reconstructive surgery.
• A young patient who is recommended to have their breasts removed due to a genetic defect and an increased risk of breast cancer.
• A patient who has undergone breast-conserving cancer surgery, but later pathological examinations reveal that the scope of the surgery was insufficient and additional surgery is required.
• A patient with recurring breast cancer.

Latest treatment methods and satisfied patients

Reconstructive surgery improves the patient’s body image and quality of life. Surveys show that up to 96–97% of patients are satisfied after breast reconstruction. Docrates offers all of the breast reconstruction methods, from fat transfer to implants and more rare microsurgical reconstruction methods. For example, patients suffering from lymphoedema after a previous breast cancer surgery can have their lymph nodes relocated in connection with breast reconstruction surgery to relieve the oedema in their upper extremities. Docrates also provides surgery where sensory nerves are connected to the skin flap to restore sensation in the reconstructed breast. The surgery is arranged without delay and according to the patient’s schedule. Some medical expenses insurances cover reconstructive surgery.

– Our goal is always to achieve the best possible result. For example, we aim to conserve the skin of the breast during breast removal. Nowadays, it is increasingly possible to conserve the nipple or areola as well. When the outline of the breast is conserved, it is easier to achieve a correct shape with the new breast, says plastic surgeon Sinikka Suominen.

The end result is the collaboration of experienced surgeons. Breast cancer surgeon Jari Viinikainen and plastic surgeon Sinikka Suominen have more than ten years’ experience of working together in the operating theatre.

– I really enjoy sharing the theatre with Sinikka. We have known each other for a long time and we have learned to cooperate seamlessly. Sinikka is extremely skilled and efficient. Even the most challenging surgery runs like clockwork, says Viinikainen.

The treatment plan is made with the patient’s life situation in mind

The patient meets with both the operating surgeons before surgery. Jari takes care of cancer surgery and Sinikka conducts the reconstructive process. The patient receives comprehensive information about the various surgical options, associated risks and complications, recovery and rehabilitation. An individualised treatment plan, prepared together with the surgeon, helps the patient prepare for surgery and supports their recovery.

– Each patient is an individual, which is why our treatment plans are always tailored. We take the patient’s needs and wishes into account and find the best treatment option for the patient. Our aim is for the patient to be able to return to their normal life as soon as possible after surgery. This means both physical and mental recovery, says breast cancer surgeon Jari Viinikainen from Docrates.

The planning of breast reconstruction takes into account, for example, the patient’s body type, age, underlying diseases and possible risk factors. Smoking and considerable obesity may be an obstacle to microsurgery. The patient’s work and hobbies also play a role in the choice of breast reconstruction method (scar location, functional aspects).

– Nowadays, more and more patients who are queuing for delayed reconstruction turn to us because the queues in the public sector are long or the patient wants a second opinion on the reconstruction method, says Viinikainen.

Aftercare supports physical and mental recovery

The recovery from breast reconstruction surgery depends on many factors, such as the extent of the surgery, the patient’s general health and lifestyle. It usually takes 4—6 weeks to recover from the surgery. The patient is usually discharged from the hospital after 3—5 days with a drain (a tube that drains excess tissue fluid from the wound cavity) and visits the hospital the following week so that the drain can be removed and the wounds examined. If necessary, excessive tissue fluid can be drained at the hospital with a needle. If there are any problems with the healing process of the wounds, the patient may need to visit the hospital a few times for wound care. In the first few days after discharge, the patient will need some practical assistance at home. If the patient has any questions, concerns or problems, they can easily contact the care provider and receive instructions. At Docrates, patients receive an individual aftercare plan that also takes into account psychological support and rehabilitation. Since a significant proportion of patients arrive for treatment from outside Helsinki, follow-up can also take place in the patient’s home municipality and as a remote service.

– We monitor patients closely after surgery to ensure they receive the support and care they need. The familiar attending doctors are easy to reach at Docrates, which patients really appreciate based on the feedback, says Sinikka Suominen.

– However, recovery is quite quick. The patients usually feel quite recovered after just five weeks. After six months or a year, they may want some additional tweaks, such as getting a nipple tattooed, Suominen continues.

Sinikka Suominen

Associate Professor, Specialist in Surgery and Plastic Surgery

– I have a deep understanding of breast reconstruction and I also give lectures on the subject internationally. Breast cancer and breast loss are always a traumatic experience. I want to encourage patients, as most breast cancers can be treated and the breast can be reconstructed.”

Jari Viinikainen

Specialist in plastic surgery

– At Docrates, I treat breast cancer and skin cancer patients. I have more than 15 years of experience in breast cancer surgery. Carefully planned and executed breast cancer surgery means safety and rapid recovery for the patient, not to mention an aesthetic end result.