Hi,
Here is a link to a previous thread in which one of our members, SueYoung55, did a wonderful job of describing the different types of reconstruction that are available.
http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Breast-Cancer/Trans-flap-vs-implants/show/1308880#post_5999697
Unfortunately, there is always the possibility of a recurrence, so you would need to continue to have follow-up surveillance according to the recommendations of your oncologist.
Bestwishes...
There is no BEST way to do reconstruction that would fit all people. It's not a one size fits all situation. But you can read those posts that I did that I think took me 3 days to complete and then ask questions and we can try and help you narrow down what suits you and your time frame and tolerance for.. well, everything.
From personal experience I know that there is no STANDARD of treatment for follow up after reconstructive surgery. I am a survivor and my doctors and I agree that I do not get mammograms anymore but I get a PET/CT and an MRI with contrast each year as follow up along with regular appointments with my oncologist & gynecologist. And then there are those doctors who believe that a mammogram will suffice for follow up. That's something you really need to discuss with your doctors as they are your personal support team. You get a voice in your follow up and treatment so make sure to take advantage of it.
Bilateral mastectomies remove most of your breast tissue but never 100 percent of it, so breast cancer can come back. It can also come back in another area of the body. But should it appear in the breast area it should be readily seen and felt. Reconstruction doesn't put you at a higher risk for cancer.
Best wishes.
Best wishes.