Cancer Australia

Breast reconstruction

E-mail Print PDF Site Map
Breast reconstruction involves rebuilding a breast shape after breast surgery using an implant or tissue from another part of the body. It may involve several operations. Breast reconstruction can sometimes be done at the same time as a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or it may be done later (delayed reconstruction). Some women choose to have surgery to the other breast as well so that both breasts look similar.

Benefits of breast reconstruction

One of the benefits of a breast reconstruction is that there’s no need to wear a breast prosthesis. Having a breast reconstruction can also help to reduce feelings of grief or loss after breast surgery and can lead to fewer sexual or self-esteem problems. Some women say that having a breast reconstruction means they are reminded less about their cancer.

Deciding about breast reconstruction

It’s important for women to have realistic expectations about breast reconstruction. This includes understanding what’s involved and how the breast might look afterwards. When deciding about breast reconstruction, it’s important to bear in mind that the new breast will not look and feel like the old one. Depending on the type of reconstruction there may be scars on the breast and on other parts of the body.

Things to think about include:

  • the cost of surgery
  • the recovery time
  • whether an expert surgeon is available to do the operation
  • what other treatments may be needed.

Talking to other women who have had breast reconstructions or looking at photographs of women who have had similar operations can be helpful.

Find out more about:

Last Updated on Saturday, 19 September 2009 20:11  

Where to next?

Related articles

Quick feedback