A plastic and reconstructive surgeon Ass. Prof. Peter Zorman MD, paid a professional visit to the University Clinical Center Tuzla. Together with surgeons from the Clinic for Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery he performed breast reconstruction using tissue from other parts of patient’s body after mastectomy. This reconstruction technique is currently the gold standard for reconstruction among available options for patients after mastectomy.
According to the head of the Clinic for Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery, Ass. Prof. Emir Halilbašić MD, breast reconstruction has become a vital part of the healing process after breast cancer surgery. “Breasts can be reconstructed using patient’s own tissue, reconstruction using a breast silicone implant, or using a combination of both techniques. All the mentioned techniques are performed at the Clinic for Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Clinical Center Tuzla, but breast reconstruction using patient’s own tissue is a demanding surgical procedure that is performed in the health centers of excellence. The goal of Dr. Zorman’s visit is to provide advanced education and training for the clinic’s staff and to introduce the mentioned procedure into our standard surgical program,” said Dr. Halilbašić.
Dr. Peter Zorman explained that the goal of the reconstruction is not only to compensate the tissue, but also to restore the appearance and symmetry of the breast. “It is an excellent alternative to implant reconstruction and the only method of reconstruction for patients who want a warm, soft and natural feeling of a reconstructed breast. Experience shows that, except in selected cases, natural and permanent results of breast reconstruction can only be achieved by transferring tissue from another part of the body. Usually after a mastectomy, the only tissue left on the breast is the muscle and part of the skin, so our task is to restore the shape of the breast and achieve the most natural and beautiful shape possible,” said Dr. Zorman.
Dr. Eldar Brkić, specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery explained that the abdominal wall is the most popular and common donor site for autologous breast reconstruction. “The abdominal tissue used in the flap has a greater chance of matching the appearance of the other breast, and removing tissue from the lower abdomen can give the effect of an abdominoplasty that will improve the shape of the body.”, explained Dr. Brkić.
The postoperative recovery for patient lasts four to six weeks, and the patient can be discharged from hospital the fifth postoperative day.
During the official reception Prof. Dr. Ervin Alibegović, director for education and scientific research thanked Ass. Prof. Zorman for his visit and said that such professional visits and meetings are an ideal opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience among colleagues.