Breast Reconstruction

There is no required delay. In fact, breast reconstruction can be performed immediately (at the same time as the mastectomy) or in a delayed fashion.

Basically, there are two ways to rebuild a breast, either by using breast implants or using tissue taken from the patient's body (often the abdomen).

This depends on the choice of reconstruction as well as the timing of the reconstruction (immediate or delayed). This also depends on whether we are operating one or both breasts.

In general, immediate reconstruction with implant takes about 45 minutes (after 1-2 hours of mastectomy). Immediate breast reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue varies between 3-8 hours.

Today, the goal of reconstruction is to give you breasts that are as natural and symmetrical as possible. That said, your breasts never be the same as before and the sensation to touch will not be the same.

Every surgery has risks and complications. The majority of these complications are rare and will be discussed with you during your consultation

The recovery time varies between minimum 2 weeks and 2 months. In general, for immediate reconstruction by implants, you will be in the hospital between 1-2 days. For a flap reconstruction, hospital stay is between 3-5 days.