breast reconstruction after mastectomy and radiation

[barbor]

What types of breast reconstruction does the Cleveland Clinic do?I had a radical mastectomy in Oct.,2005 and also had radiation to chest wall. I am not a candidate using my back or abdomen as a donor site and I am told that implants can not be done. Do you have a procedure that uses the hip or fanny as a donor site?
I live in Dayton, Ohio.
John Hopkins told me they do a procedure that would involve using my hip as a donor site, but they are so far away.
Thank you,
Barbor

[Macela]

Is it better to wait on reconstruction until after you get all of the pathology reports after a mastectomy?  They told me it would take up to two weeks to get all reports in.  What if you need radiation, won't that effect the new breast that is built?  Do most people these days do the reconstruction right away as I am being led to believe or wait? I don't think I would do well to wake up to no breast, but I don't want to go through all of that pain and effort just to have the work radiated.  No one seems to know if I will need radiation or not.  I have DCIS and will be having a left mastectomy with consideration of a profolatic mastectomy on my right side as well.  I plan to do a tram flap.  Thank you for any insights!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Barbor:  Without examination, it is not possible for us to speculate on what breast reconstruction options are available in your particular situation.  If you are interested, we would be happy to set you up for an appointment with one of the plastic surgeons specializing in breast reconstruction for evaluation.  You may call toll-free 1-866-223-8100, Monday-Friday 8:30AM-4:30PM, if you are interested.