Breast reconstruction
Reconstruction can take place at the time of the mastectomy (immediate) or later once your cancer treatment is complete (delayed).
Your team will discuss which option may be more appropriate for you. Decisions are individualised, and are based on your general fitness, whether you smoke, the type of breast cancer you have and what further treatment you may need.
We work closely alongside our plastic surgery colleagues to offer a complete range of implant-based or tissue-based (autologous) reconstructions. As part of deciding what is right for you, you may be seen in one of our joint breast surgery and plastic surgery clinics.
These are co-ordinated by our team of breast reconstruction nurse specialists who are here to help guide and support you at each step.
Implant-based
This technique uses a synthetic implant or expander placed under the breast skin or pectoralis muscle to re-create a breast shape. Sometimes an internal bra is used to support the implant inside. This can be made out of some of the breast skin or specially processed tissue that has come from an animal source (Acellular Collagen Matrix).
Tissue-based (autologous)
This technique uses some of your own tissue to re-create a breast shape. This can involve using the muscle from your back (latissimus dorsi or ‘LD’) or elsewhere (tummy fat, thighs, bottom).
Only certain ladies are suitable for this type of reconstruction which has a long recovery period. Your surgeon and nurse specialist will be able to discuss this further with you.
