Decision-Making Support

Breast surgery is never a “one size fits all” decision. Women and men may choose surgery for many different reasons—sometimes because of cancer, sometimes because of genetics, sometimes because of personal comfort or preference.

At Coastal Hope for Healing, we believe it’s important to understand the different reasons surgery may be considered, so you feel informed and supported at every step. Below are some of the most common indications for breast surgery and reconstruction.

Breast Cancer

For many women, breast surgery is part of cancer treatment. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, your care team may recommend:

• Lumpectomy – removing the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue, while preserving most of the breast.

• Mastectomy – removing the entire breast to treat or prevent cancer from returning.

Reconstruction can be performed at the same time (immediate reconstruction) or later (delayed reconstruction).

Mastectomy

A mastectomy may be performed for:

• Cancer treatment – removing one or both breasts affected by cancer.

• Preventive (prophylactic) surgery – reducing risk for women at high genetic risk.

After mastectomy, some women choose reconstruction with implants or flaps, while others prefer going flat. Each option is valid and personal.

BRCA / Hereditary Risk

Women who carry a BRCA1, BRCA2, or other genetic mutation have a much higher lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. For some, preventive mastectomy offers peace of mind.

Reconstruction—whether immediate or delayed—can help restore balance and confidence after surgery.

Poland Syndrome

Poland Syndrome is a rare condition where the chest muscle and breast tissue don’t develop fully on one side of the body. Reconstruction can help create a more natural, symmetrical chest using implants, flaps, or fat grafting.

Implant Failure or Unsatisfactory Reconstruction

Sometimes implants don’t last forever, or a previous reconstruction may no longer feel comfortable or look the way you want. Common reasons for revision include:

• Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant)

• Implant rupture or deflation

• Shifting or rippling of implants

• Desire for a different size or look

Revision surgery can replace or remove implants, refine flaps, or add fat grafting for a softer, natural contour.

Natural Tissue Breast Augmentation

Some women choose to enhance or restore their breasts using their own tissue rather than implants. This is sometimes called “autologous augmentation.” Techniques include fat grafting or flap procedures.

This approach may be considered after weight loss, pregnancy, or when implants are not desired.

Reconstruction for Symmetry

Even without cancer or genetic risk, surgery may be recommended to restore balance between the breasts. This can include:

• Lifting, reducing, or enlarging the opposite breast

• Adjusting size, shape, or position for improved symmetry

• Revision after prior surgery to create a more natural look

A Personal Path

Whether you’re facing breast cancer, living with a genetic risk, considering preventive surgery, or seeking improved balance, your reasons are valid. There are many reasons for breast surgery—but there is only one reason that matters most: yours.