Plastic Surgeons Lead The Way With Best Outcomes For Women Undergoing Breast Reconstruction

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) welcomes new findings from the fourth annual report of the National Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Audit, which reveal that microsurgical and pedicled flap reconstructions after mastectomy provide the best reported outcomes for women. Microsurgical reconstruction, the most technically sophisticated procedure, is almost exclusively the domain of Plastic Surgeons.

rofessor Simon Kay, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, commented: “For many years Plastic Surgery has pioneered the reconstruction of women’s breasts after mastectomy, and most recently has developed highly technical microsurgical skills to enable breast reconstruction which uses the patient’s own abdominal skin and fat. This auditdemonstrates that microsurgical reconstruction provides the highest quality outcomes for women across the country.

“The National Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Audit continues to define the outcomes for women in all areas of England undergoing breast reconstruction after mastectomy, and so helps to identify best practice. These findings provide further solid evidence which supports the Nice guidance that women should have access to all means of reconstruction, even if not offered in their local area, in order that they may make a fully informed choice.

“We are glad to play our part in the collaborative surgical teams that work hard to restore appearance and self esteem to so many women after surgical treatment of breast cancer. We must continue to advise and treat patients in conjunction with partner specialties, including breast surgeons, and as part of a multi-disciplinary team. Ultimately, every woman should be granted access to the best reconstructive treatment for them, including those which for many will require the skills of a Plastic Surgeon.”

BAPRAS draws attention to the national underprovision of Plastic Surgery when compared to other western countries, which seriously risks reducing the rate of quality outcomes for vulnerable patients. BAPRAS recognises that not every clinic has immediate access to Plastic Surgeons, but remains committed to working with health providers to increase the appointment and availability of them. Patients are also reminded of their right to ask for a consultation with a Plastic Surgeon before surgery in order to obtain information about the full range of reconstruction options available,including microsurgical reconstruction, and decide on the best treatment for them.