Newer breast reconstruction option could reduce pain

Women who need breast-reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy may have a new option that could reduce the pain and discomfort as they recover.

Dr. Jennifer Caudle, a family physician and associate professor at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, talked to Fox 5 News about these breast implant options.

Surgeons commonly put breast implants between ribs and chest muscles. This procedure is called sub-muscular placement. This causes many women pain and discomfort.

Now some surgeons are placing the implants on top of the major chest muscles instead of under them. This is called prepectoral breast reconstruction. Dr. Caudle explained that surgeons cover the implant with a mesh.

The hope, Dr. Caudle said, is that this method can reduce pain in the chest wall and also minimize breast deformities and the uneven appearance of the implants. She said it is not common yet, but could become more widespread if patients report better outcomes.

"What I like about it is it's another option for women," Dr. Caudle said. "It's a matter of finding what's right for you."

Read more at the New York Times.