Breast Reconstruction Surgery

What are the types of breast reconstruction and when can they be performed?

Breast reconstruction is the formation of a new breast following mastectomy. There are 2 main types of reconstruction and either can be performed at the time of the mastectomy (immediate) or at any time after the full completion of the breast cancer treatment and recovery (delayed). Ideally, all breast cancer patients who have had a mastectomy should be made aware of the possibility of breast reconstruction and what suitable options might be available. The discussion around breast reconstruction can be quite complex and Dr Bell will be able help you decide what type of reconstruction is a suitable option for you or you might decide not to have a breast reconstruction at all. Another option would be to wear a breast prosthesis. In this case, Dr Bell will put you in touch with a trained fitter, who can help you choose the right prosthesis.

Implant based breast reconstruction

This type of reconstruction uses silicone implants to recreate the breast shape. The procedure is usually a 2-step process. First, saline expanders are inserted and gradually inflated to get to the desired breast volume. At the second stage, these expanders are exchanged for permanent silicone implants. The advantage of this type of surgery is that is lower risk and doesn’t involve surgery on other body parts. However, the reconstructed breast might have a less natural look and feel and may require further adjustment procedures in the future.

Autologous breast reconstruction

This type of reconstruction uses your own body tissue (flap) from another location (usually tummy fat +/- muscle) to create a new breast. The most commonly used flaps are TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous) flap, DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flaps and Latissimus Dorsi flaps. The advantage of this type of surgery is that the reconstructed breast will look and feel more natural, but the surgery is much more complex, involves other body parts and has a longer recovery.

To learn more about breast reconstruction, please read this Booklet provided by the Cancer Council.