Salvage of the failed breast reconstruction

Failure of a breast reconstruction is a devastating event for both the patient and the physician alike. By the very nature of reconstructive surgery, much is invested by the patient and the surgeon to accomplish a successful breast reconstruction. It is sometimes difficult to think rationally about the fate of a reconstruction once failure looms on the horizon and the decision-making process can become clouded. The reconstructive surgeon must play an active role in the decision-making process regarding salvage of a reconstructed breast versus abandonment of a failed reconstruction. Although many reconstructive options are available, the patient's prognosis, need for adjuvant therapy, physiologic and mental state, and desires must all be factored into any decision regarding the ultimate fate of the breast reconstruction.