Absence of breast tissue (after mastectomy)
Recreates the volume and natural shape of the removed breast.
Breast Surgery
Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy
Specialised plastic surgery in the service of women after mastectomy
ResultsRestoration of volume and shape
SafetyDoes not affect oncological follow-up or treatment
PersonalisationChoice between implants or autologous tissue (from your own body)
Psychological SupportSignificant boost in confidence after overcoming the disease
Overview
Modern breast reconstruction techniques that respect a woman's nature and anatomy
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy comprises a series of specialised surgical techniques aimed at recreating the removed breast, giving the woman back her body's symmetry, her femininity and her lost confidence. Modern plastic surgery treats every woman individually, offering solutions aligned with her body's needs and medical history, with her safety as the priority.
Breast
Reconstruction
Reconstruction
WHAT WE CORRECT
When and how does breast reconstruction help?
The procedure aims for reconstruction of the breast and symmetry with the contralateral (healthy) breast. It offers substantial benefits in the following cases:
Breast asymmetry
Allows correction, lifting or augmentation of the other breast, to achieve a harmonious and balanced visual result.
Absence of nipple and areola
In the final stage, recreates the nipple and areola using specialised techniques or medical tattooing.
Restoration of tissue deficits
Covers skin and tissue deficits in the chest area.
Beauty by Design
Rebuilding with care, restoring confidence.
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy restores natural shape and volume, tailored to each patient's needs and recovery journey.
Preparation before the procedure
Preparation before the procedure
Close and thorough collaboration between the plastic surgeon, the treating oncologist and the breast surgeon is essential to determine the appropriate plan (immediate or delayed reconstruction). A full preoperative assessment is carried out before surgery. The patient must inform the team of her complete medical history, any medications she is taking, or any previous treatments (radiotherapy/chemotherapy). Strict cessation of smoking (usually 1 month before and 1 month after) and avoidance of alcohol is required, as smoking negatively affects tissue perfusion. Complete abstinence from food and water for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure is required.
TECHNIQUE
How Breast Reconstruction is performed step by step
Each patient is unique and reconstruction is based on the type of mastectomy and her body type. It may be performed in a single surgery or in multiple stages, with the placement of silicone implants and mesh for support. The stages are as follows:
Placement of a tissue expander
Placement of a tissue expander beneath the pectoralis major muscle. Through a small valve, gradual expansion is performed periodically until it is filled over a period of several weeks or months.
Final reconstruction
Removal of the expander and placement of a silicone implant. We use the certified Mentor silicone implants, which meet all safety specifications and have received FDA approval. (Duration: ~2 hours | Anaesthesia: General | Clinic stay: 1 day).
Nipple reconstruction
Reconstruction of the nipple and areola. (Duration: ~1 hour | Anaesthesia: Local | Stay: Not required).
Procedure Details
Breast reconstruction at a glance
- Operating time
- 1–2 hours for the main stages
- Anaesthesia
- General anaesthesia only (for the major stages), local anaesthesia (for the nipple)
- Clinic stay
- Includes a 1-day clinic stay (for stage 2)
- Pain / Sensation
- Postoperatively there may be a feeling of tightness or pressure, numbness or a burning sensation in the area or the inner side of the arm (due to small nerves that may be affected). Pain is managed effectively with medication.
- Recommended season
- Every season is appropriate for breast reconstruction
- Result
- Visible upon waking (but initially higher and swollen). Healing time (3–6 months) is needed for it to "soften" and appear natural
AFTER SURGERY
What to expect after breast reconstruction – Recovery
Support and Protection
The patient will need a compression bra, which she should wear for at least 2 weeks. After that, she will need to wear a sports bra. The use of underwire bras is prohibited for at least 4 weeks after the procedure.
Sutures
All sutures are absorbable.
Return to activities
The patient may: shower 2 days after surgery, return to work 15 days after surgery, and drive normally.
What is prohibited
Lifting weights, intense arm exercises and sudden chest movements for at least 6 weeks.
Risks / Complications
Possibility of haematoma, fluid accumulation (seroma), infection, skin healing problems (more common in smokers or after radiotherapy), or implant complications (capsular contracture). Close medical monitoring helps with timely management of any issues.
Personalised
Approach
Approach
Results
Before & After — Breast Reconstruction.
Representative breast reconstruction cases. Results are always assessed in the context of medical history, anatomy and each patient's goals.
Breast recreation after mastectomy
Symmetry and femininity restored
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about breast reconstruction.
No. Using ultrasound, mammography and MRI mammography, monitoring remains possible even behind implants or within flaps.
Immediate reconstruction is performed at the same surgical time as the mastectomy, meaning the woman wakes from surgery already having a reshaped breast (or a tissue expander). Delayed reconstruction is performed at a second stage, months or even years later, once the patient has safely completed all her oncological treatments (radiotherapy, chemotherapy). The choice depends on the stage of the disease and the recommendation of the oncology board.
The reconstructed breast will be very close in shape, volume and appearance to the natural one, providing good balance in clothing and in a bra. However, the sense of touch (the sensitivity of the skin) will be reduced or different compared to before, as the superficial nerves are cut during the mastectomy.
Start with a personal consultation.
Discuss your needs, goals and available options with the doctor, so that a safe and personalised treatment plan can be designed.
Results vary from person to person and cannot be guaranteed. Suitability for any treatment is determined by the doctor after a personal consultation.