Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction With Mastectomy, 
or Following Mastectomy, and Partial Breast Reconstruction following Lumpectomy 

Breast reconstruction surgery can be performed:
  • at the same time as your breast cancer surgery (immediate reconstruction), or 
  • at a later time (delayed reconstruction)
  • as a partial breast reconstruction to fill the gap in the breast tissue where the cancer once was
Some women leave it for a number of years. Breast reconstruction is a very personal decision. 

Your surgeon will ask you how you feel about a full or partial breast reconstruction.

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is performed to restore the shape and size of the breast. 

Indications for Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction may be performed in the following cases:
  • Mastectomy for treatment of breast cancer
  • Loss of breast tissue secondary to trauma or injury
  • Birth defects in the breast
  • Partial breast Reconstruction after lumpectomy 

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction has been found to greatly enhance your self-image and quality-of-life.

If you choose to rebuild your breasts after mastectomy or lumpectomy, Your surgeon may refer you to a reconstructive or oncoplastic surgeon who will perform your breast reconstruction. 

During reconstruction, your oncoplastic/plastic surgeon creates a breast mound using an implant or tissue flap taken from your stomach, thighs, back, or buttocks.

Breast Reconstruction Procedure

Breast reconstruction can be performed in two ways:
  • Using implants
  • Using your own body tissues

What are Breast Implants?

Breast implants are artificial shells filled with silicone gel that is surgically implanted to replace breast tissue. They vary in shape and texture and can be placed either under or over your chest muscles.

Breast Reconstruction Using Implants

If the procedure is performed during breast cancer surgery, and you have sufficient tissue to cover the implant, (for example, if the breast skin and nipple is spared) your doctor will place the implant above the chest wall muscles (modern day prepectoral breast reconstruction) wrapped in a biological wrap (like a Wanton or Ravioli) called an Acellular Dermal Matrix or within a mesh bra - or partly under the chest wall muscles (dual plane reconstruction). With modern techniques it is becoming very uncommon indeed to place an implant completely under the chest wall muscles, as these have a very poor shape, are painful, and do not move naturally with your body. Surgeons at Melbourne Breast Unit are at the leading edge of using sophisticated modern techniques of breast reconstruction.


For any further information feel free to contact us on (03) 9419 1166 or via email breast.unit@breastunit.com.au