According to the Centers for Disease Control, breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women, and more than 40,000 patients died from the disease in 2006. With the number of women undergoing treatment, The Huffington Post reports that it is crucial that women know all their options for breast reconstruction.

Experts say that one popular technique involves taking muscle, fat and skin from the lower abdomen to the chest, to create a new breast. Patients may choose this technique because it does not require an implant; however, there are a number of disadvantages because of the prolonged surgery time and the possibility of flap failure.

Many women choose to have breast reconstruction at the same time as the mastectomy. This not only results in one less operation and an overall shortened recovery time, but may also expedite psychological benefits.

Recent research supports the notion that immediate instead of delayed reconstruction is best for the patient. A retroactive analysis reported in the European Journal of Surgical Oncology in 2000 found that 95 percent of women who underwent immediate reconstruction preferred the technique.

Breast reconstruction is a team approach that will require a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform the reconstruction after the cancer surgeon has completed the mastectomy. It is crucial to go over the options with both doctors, and understand the risks and outcomes of the surgery.