Breast Reconstruction

Many women choose to have a breast reconstruction after mastectomy rather than wearing a prosthesis in their bra to recreate the appearance of a normal breast.

Some breast reconstruction surgeons recommend you have the surgery at the same time as your mastectomy, others suggest you wait up to 12 months and completely recover from your mastectomy first.

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy involves creating a new “breast”, using either your own body tissue or breast reconstruction implants. Your surgeon will discuss which is the best option for you.

Breast reconstruction implants

Before inserting breast reconstruction implants, surgeons may first place an inflatable “tissue expander” under your skin. Over several weeks, injections of fluid gradually fill this to stretch your skin. Once you are ready, the surgeon will remove the tissue expander and insert a breast implant to create your new breast.

Breast reconstruction surgeons agree reconstruction after mastectomy can never perfectly match your original breast. But it can provide you with a very acceptable outcome. As well as improving your appearance after a mastectomy, it can also help to improve your balance and posture.

Breast reconstruction using your own tissue

A new breast can also be reconstructed using you own tissue (autologous tissue reconstruction). This method can be utilised when implants may not be suitable, or through patient choice. Common locations from which tissue can be used for reconstruction include the abdomen or the back.

These forms of reconstruction can give a very natural looking and feeling breast. Autologous tissue reconstruction involves more complex surgery and a plastic surgeon works together with a breast surgeon to give the best results.

Your surgeon will discuss with you whether this form of reconstruction might be most suitable for you.