Challenges in breast reconstruction after breast cancer: on perioperative and postoperative complications and postoperative patient satisfaction

This dissertation investigates the quality of life after breast-conserving surgery to treat breast cancer that requires a plastic surgeon to maintain a natural breast shape. For the patient, this means a larger operation with larger scars. The alternative is a total breast repair operation and therefore amputation. This thesis examines the perspectives of both patient and physician while designing the treatment plan for breast reconstruction after breast cancer. This thesis also describes different aspects of total breast reconstruction operations with own tissue (free flap) and with breast prostheses. The focus is mainly on research into (the prevention of) postoperative complications. Some questions that are addressed are: 'Does a “mesh” have a positive effect on breast reconstruction with a breast implant?' and 'What is an important predictor for the setback or failure of a breast reconstruction with a free flap?'