Breast reconstruction is commonly performed on women who have had a Mastectomy (removal of the breast due to cancer or precancerous condition) or who have breast deformities.

Many women feel very insecure or self-conscious about the appearance of their breasts following Mastectomy. Breast Reconstruction can help provide important psychological benefits to women recovering from cancer. As well as aesthetic benefits, Breast Reconstruction allows women to return to an emotional state they enjoyed before their cancer diagnosis. This procedure allows their natural curves to be restored and can drastically improve quality of life.

Breast reconstruction is a procedure available to women who have lost a breast to cancer or women at high risk for breast cancer who want to take a preventative measure against the disease. Through breast reconstruction, a new breast, very similar to a natural breast in form and appearance, is created as a replacement for the original. Breast reconstruction can be performed immediately after mastectomy or as a separate surgery. Breast reconstruction is a two-step procedure. The first step is to reconstruct the breast mound to the proper size and shape using either a patient’s own tissues or a prostheses filled with silicone or saline. Once the breast mound has been created, the nipple-areolar complex is made, using local flaps of skin and medical tattooing to create the desired color.

Breast Reconstruction techniques are usually performed in stages and can span across six months. The first procedure, which is usually performed at the time of the Mastectomy, is the longest and most complex. The subsequent surgeries are usually day surgery procedures and involve minimal pain and recovery.

Once the new breast has been reconstructed, the opposite breast may need to be lifted or reduced in order to achieve symmetry. Patients are typically satisfied with the final result of the surgery.