Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction restores the appearance of one (or both) breasts after mastectomy to   allow maintenance of breast shape, size and symmetry.

Reconstruction may be immediate, performed at the same time as mastectomy, or delayed until a later time. The timing of reconstruction varies for everyone depending on the stage of disease, additional (adjuvant) treatment required, past medical history, lifestyle and personal preference.

Autologous (or Flap-based) reconstruction involves creation of a new breast mound using the patient’s own skin and fat tissue taken from another part of the body. The most common donor site is the tummy (abdominal pannus). In some cases, tissue can be used from the thigh or buttock areas.

Prosthetic-based reconstruction recreates the breast appearance by insertion of a breast implant behind the muscle of the chest (sub-pectoral prosthesis). Implant reconstruction uses a silicone or saline filled prosthesis, often in combination with a supportive sling (acellular dermal matrix) for a more natural and feminine appearance. A tissue expander is used in select circumstances as a temporary prosthesis prior to later definitive reconstruction.