Breast reconstruction surgery

Pokanga waihanga ū

Breast reconstruction is an operation that restores shape to your breast after a mastectomy. The aim is to match the remaining breast as closely as possible. This is done by creating a breast mound using an implant, your own tissues or a combination of both.

Breast reconstruction will result in you having a breast mound that will best resemble your natural breast when you are dressed. But the reconstructed breast will be scarred and have no sensation or nipple. It may appear a different size and shape when you are undressed.

Smokers who have breast reconstruction surgery do not heal as well. If you need help to quit smoking, use the resources on How to become smokefree.

The breast reconstruction operation

Breast reconstruction is a major operation, and some women need more than one operation.

Breast reconstruction may be done at the same time as the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction), or some time after the mastectomy (delayed reconstruction). You will need to discuss the timing of your reconstruction with your surgeon to work out what is best for you.

Types of breast reconstruction

There are different types of breast reconstruction, including:

Implant

This is the simplest type of reconstruction. An implant is placed under your chest muscle.

An inflatable implant called an expander is sometimes used. This has an opening, or port, under the skin so saline can be added using a needle and syringe. This makes the skin and muscles stretch gradually so the breast mound droop appears more natural.

Tissue flap and implant

You have a muscle in your back called the latissimus dorsi. It sits just below your shoulder blade. The operation uses a flap of this muscle, with its skin and own blood supply. The surgeon moves the muscle flap under the skin below your armpit. They reposition it on your chest to create a breast mound. Usually, you will need a silicone gel implant or tissue expander behind it to help match the size of your other breast.

Tissue flap with no implant

This type of surgery is complex, takes many hours and has a longer recovery time. But it can give the most natural looking breast.

Tissue is taken from your tummy and moved up to your chest to form a breast.

Nipple reconstruction

Some women choose to get a nipple reconstruction, but some prefer to use stick-on nipples. In some cases, part of your own nipple can be used. In other cases, the surgeon will make a new nipple from a flap or graft. Sometimes nipple tattoos are used.

After breast reconstruction

You will need to avoid driving, lifting and activities using your arms such as hanging out washing for 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.

It can take several months before you can return to some activities such as sports.

HealthInfo recommends the following pages

Breast Cancer Foundation NZ – Breast reconstruction
Detailed information about breast reconstruction.
Cancer Council Victoria – Types of breast reconstruction
Detailed information about types of breast reconstruction.

On the next page: Caring for your drain at home after surgery

Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed July 2024.

Sources

Page reference: 85838

Review key: HIBRC-85838