Breast Reconstruction Techniques

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring the shape and appearance of a breast following a mastectomy or breast injury. The primary goal of this surgery is to rebuild a breast that closely resembles the form and size of the original breast, thereby enhancing both the physical and psychological well-being of the patient. At RG Aesthetics, breast reconstruction is not just about aesthetics; it’s about helping patients reclaim their body image and self-esteem after a significant medical journey. It is a reassurance of a new life filled with body confidence and self-love.

 

Immediate vs. Delayed Reconstruction

After a mastectomy, breast reconstruction can be done either immediately or at a later time, depending on the patient’s medical condition and preferences.

Immediate Reconstruction: This type of reconstruction is performed during the same surgery as the mastectomy. One of its key benefits is that the patient wakes up with the breast shape already intact, reducing the psychological impact of the mastectomy. Additionally, it can reduce the number of surgeries needed and often leads to better aesthetic outcomes, as the skin and tissue are preserved during the mastectomy. However, for patients requiring post-mastectomy radiation, immediate reconstruction may not be the best option, as radiation can affect the healing process and compromise cosmetic results.

Delayed Reconstruction: In contrast, delayed reconstruction occurs months or even years after the mastectomy, typically once cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation are complete. This allows the patient to focus entirely on cancer treatment, reducing the risk of complications related to these therapies. Although waiting for reconstruction can be emotionally challenging for some, this approach offers greater flexibility in choosing the type of reconstruction and optimal timing. Both immediate and delayed reconstruction options have distinct advantages and should be carefully discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Microvascular (Free Flap) Techniques for Breast Reconstruction

Contralateral Summarization Procedures

To achieve a balanced and symmetrical appearance, contralateral symmetrization procedures can be performed on the opposite breast. These procedures help ensure that the reconstructed breast matches the natural breast in terms of size, shape, and position, contributing to a harmonious overall result. Two common symmetrization techniques are:

Mastopexy (Breast Lift)

Mastopexy is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape the natural breast to better align with the reconstructed breast.

• Procedure Overview: During a mastopexy, excess skin is removed, and the surrounding breast tissue is tightened to create a firmer, more uplifted appearance. The areola may also be resized and repositioned for a more symmetrical look.
• When to Consider Mastopexy: This technique is ideal for patients whose natural breasts has sagged over time due to ageing, weight fluctuations, or other factors. It can be done in conjunction with the initial reconstruction surgery or at a later stage, depending on the patient’s recovery and personal preferences.
• Advantages: Mastopexy enhances the overall aesthetic balance between the reconstructed and natural breast, providing a more youthful contour and a lifted appearance.
• Disadvantages: Recovery from a mastopexy typically involves swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort. It may also leave scars, although these usually fade over time and are often concealed along the natural contours of the breast.

 

Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin from the natural breast to achieve symmetry with the reconstructed breast.

• Procedure Overview: The surgeon carefully reduces and reshapes the natural breast to match the size and shape of the reconstructed breast. The areola may also be adjusted to maintain proportionate positioning.
• When to Consider Breast Reduction: This option is suitable for patients with larger natural breasts who wish to achieve a more balanced, proportional appearance after reconstruction. It can be performed simultaneously with the reconstruction or as a separate procedure.
• Advantages: Breast reduction not only helps achieve aesthetic symmetry but can also relieve physical discomfort associated with larger breasts, such as back, neck, or shoulder pain. It also reduces the risk of skin irritation under the breastfold.
• Disadvantages: Like other breast surgeries, breast reduction requires a longer recovery period and may result in visible scars. However, these scars are usually well-hidden and fade over time.

Complete Makeover: Tummy Tuck with Breast Reconstruction & Contralateral Rejuvenation

At RG Aesthetics, we understand that breast reconstruction is often part of a broader transformation journey. For patients seeking a more comprehensive change, we offer a complete makeover that combines breast reconstruction with a tummy tuck and contralateral breast rejuvenation to achieve a youthful, proportionate, and perky appearance.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) with Breast Reconstruction

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is often performed alongside breast reconstruction, particularly with DIEP flap surgery. This approach utilizes skin and fat from the lower abdomen to recreate the breast, while simultaneously tightening the abdominal area for a slimmer and more toned midsection.

• Procedure Overview: During the tummy tuck, excess abdominal skin is removed, muscles are tightened, and the remaining skin is smoothed for a flatter stomach. The tissue removed during the tummy tuck can also be used for autologous breast reconstruction. This allows patients to achieve two significant aesthetic improvements in a single surgical session—restoring the breast and enhancing the abdominal contour.
• Advantages: Combining a tummy tuck with breast reconstruction provides a holistic transformation, improving both the upper and lower body contours. Patients benefit from enhanced body confidence, better-fitting clothes, and a more youthful silhouette.
• Disadvantages: As this is a more extensive surgery, the recovery period is longer compared to isolated procedures. Patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and limitations in physical activity during the initial healing phase. However, these effects are temporary and can be effectively managed with proper post-operative care.

Contralateral Rejuvenation: Achieving Perky, Youthful Breasts

To create a balanced and youthful breast appearance, contralateral rejuvenation is often performed along with breast reconstruction. This includes a breast lift (mastopexy) or breast reduction, adjusted to achieve a perky and youthful look that matches the newly reconstructed breast.

• Mastopexy (Breast Lift): As part of the rejuvenation, a breast lift can be performed on the natural breast to raise and reshape it, giving it a more lifted, youthful appearance. This procedure helps achieve symmetrical nipple positioning and a firmer breast contour that complements the reconstructed breast.
• Breast Reduction: For patients with larger natural breasts, a reduction can be performed to ensure the size and shape align with the newly reconstructed breast. This approach not only creates symmetry but also lifts and rejuvenates the breast for a perkier and more youthful result.
• Augmentation for Additional Volume: In some cases, patients may opt to include breast augmentation to add volume to either the reconstructed or natural breast, creating a fuller, more proportionate look.

Benefits of a Complete Makeover

• Holistic Transformation: A combined procedure addresses both breast and body contour, leading to a more proportionate, youthful figure.
• Convenience: By combining multiple procedures, patients can minimize their time in surgery, streamline recovery, and reduce overall downtime.
• Psychological Boost: A full-body makeover not only enhances physical appearance but also boosts self-esteem, helping patients feel rejuvenated and more confident in their own skin.

Detailed Medical Procedure: Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a multi-step medical procedure that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient. At RG Aesthetics, we prioritize patient safety and comfort throughout every phase of the reconstruction process, ensuring that patients are fully informed and prepared before, during, and after surgery.

1. Pre-Operative Consultation and Planning

The first step in the breast reconstruction journey is a comprehensive consultation with your surgical team. During this consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, assess your general health, and discuss your options for breast reconstruction based on your cancer treatment (if applicable), body type, and personal preferences. Your surgeon will also help you understand what to expect during the procedure and recovery process.

If you are undergoing a mastectomy, your breast surgeon and reconstructive surgeon will coordinate to plan the reconstruction surgery, whether it will be performed immediately or delayed. Pre-operative imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI, may be used to evaluate the chest and abdomen area and guide the reconstruction process.

Patients will also be given specific instructions to prepare for surgery, which may include adjusting medications, stopping smoking, and following a particular diet or exercise plan.

2. The Day of Surgery: Preparing for the Procedure

On the day of surgery, patients are admitted to RG Aesthetics, where our surgical team will review the procedure and answer any last-minute questions. The medical team, including anesthesiologists, nurses, and surgeons, will ensure that the patient is comfortable and ready for surgery.

Anaesthesia:

Breast reconstruction is typically performed under general anaesthesia, meaning that the patient will be asleep throughout the entire procedure. The anaesthesia team will closely monitor the patient’s vital signs to ensure safety throughout the surgery.

3. Surgical Procedure for Implant-Based Reconstruction

For patients undergoing implant-based reconstruction, the surgery typically follows these steps:

• Step 1: Tissue Expander (if two-stage reconstruction): If the patient is undergoing a two-stage implant-based reconstruction, the surgeon will first place a tissue expander beneath the chest muscle during the mastectomy. The expander gradually stretches the skin and muscle to create enough space for a permanent implant. This process takes several weeks, with saline being injected into the expander at regular intervals during follow-up visits.
• Step 2: Implant Placement: Once the tissue has expanded enough, the second stage of surgery involves removing the expander and placing the permanent saline or silicone implant. The surgeon will ensure that the implant is placed correctly to achieve the desired breast shape and size.
• Direct-to-Implant Option: In some cases, patients may opt for direct-to-implant reconstruction, where the permanent implant is placed immediately after the mastectomy. This technique eliminates the need for a tissue expander and can lead to a quicker overall recovery time. This is usually done for patients who are going for immediate breast reconstruction at the time of mastectomy and are not candidates for radiotherapy subsequently. This is also a viable option for prophylactic mastectomy, where the breast is removed to prevent the occurrence of cancer in genetically predisposed patients.

4. Surgical Procedure for Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction

For patients choosing autologous tissue reconstruction, the procedure is more complex, involving the transfer of tissue from another part of the body to the chest to recreate the breast.

• Step 1: Tissue Harvesting: The surgeon will first identify the donor site, which is typically the abdomen (for DIEP or TRAM flaps), thighs (for TUG flaps), or back (for Latissimus Dorsi flaps). The necessary tissue, including skin, fat, and sometimes muscle, is carefully harvested.
• Step 2: Microvascular Free Flap Surgery: If the patient is undergoing microvascular free flap surgery (such as DIEP or TUG flaps), the harvested tissue is completely detached from the donor site. The surgeon will use specialized microsurgical techniques to reconnect the tiny blood vessels from the flap to the blood vessels in the chest. This is a delicate procedure that requires expertise in microsurgery to ensure the success of the tissue transfer.
• Step 3: Breast Mound Creation: Once the tissue has been successfully transplanted into the chest, the surgeon will carefully shape the tissue to create a natural-looking breast mound. The goal is to recreate a breast that is symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing while preserving as much sensation as possible.

5. Nipple and Areola Reconstruction

After the breast mound has healed, patients can choose to undergo nipple and areola reconstruction. This is typically performed several months after the initial reconstruction surgery. Nipple reconstruction may involve creating a small flap of tissue on the reconstructed breast to form a nipple, while medical tattooing is used to recreate the appearance of the areola.

Tattooing is an effective way to simulate the natural colour and texture of the areola, and patients can customize the size, shape, and colour to match their preferences.

6. Post-Operative Recovery: The Immediate Phase

Once the surgery is complete, patients are closely monitored in the recovery room. Most patients stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days, depending on the type of reconstruction performed. During this time, the medical team will provide pain management, monitor vital signs, and ensure that there are no immediate complications such as bleeding or infection.

• Pain Management: Pain and discomfort are common after breast reconstruction surgery, particularly for flap procedures that involve multiple surgical sites. Patients will be given pain medications to manage discomfort, as well as instructions on how to care for their incisions and surgical drains.
• Wound Care: Surgical drains may be placed to help remove excess fluid from the surgical site, which helps prevent complications such as hematomas or seromas. Patients will be instructed on how to care for these drains, which are typically removed within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery.

7. Long-Term Recovery and Follow-Up Care

Recovery from breast reconstruction can take several weeks to several months, depending on the type of reconstruction and the patient’s individual health. Most patients are able to return to light activities within 4 to 6 weeks, although full recovery may take longer for flap-based procedures.

• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and ensure the success of the reconstruction. During these appointments, the surgeon will check for signs of infection, monitor the health of the reconstructed breast, and assess the patient’s progress. Any concerns about scarring, asymmetry, or complications will be addressed during these visits.
• Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to help patients regain strength and mobility, particularly if a flap procedure was performed. Physical therapy can help reduce stiffness in the chest and improve overall recovery.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise for several weeks after surgery. Wearing compression garments, as recommended by the surgeon, can help reduce swelling and support healing.

8. Revisions and Refinements

While many patients achieve excellent results from their initial breast reconstruction surgery, some may require additional revision surgeries to refine the shape, address asymmetry, or correct minor complications. Revision surgery can involve adjusting the position of implants, reshaping the reconstructed breast, or improving the appearance of scars.

RG Aesthetics offers comprehensive revision options for patients who wish to further enhance the aesthetic outcome of their reconstruction.

Risks and Complications of Breast Reconstruction

Like any surgical procedure, breast reconstruction carries certain risks. At RG Aesthetics, we take every measure to minimise these risks through meticulous planning, state-of-the-art techniques, and ongoing post-operative care. However, it’s important for patients to be informed about potential complications before making a decision.

Common Risks Associated with Breast Reconstruction

• Infection: Infection can occur at the surgical site and may require additional treatment with antibiotics or, in rare cases, surgical intervention. Proper wound care and hygiene and close monitoring by our medical team help reduce the risk of infection.
• Bleeding and Hematoma: As with any surgery, there is a risk of bleeding during or after the procedure. Hematomas, or collections of blood under the skin, may also occur and require drainage.
• Implant Complications: For patients who choose implant-based reconstruction, there is a small risk of complications such as capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant tightens and causes discomfort or alters the breast’s appearance. Implants can also rupture or leak over time, which may necessitate replacement surgery.
• Flap Complications: Flap procedures carry their own set of risks, including partial or complete loss of the flap if the blood supply is compromised. This is more common in patients with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or smokers, who may have reduced circulation.
• Scarring: While every effort is made to minimise scarring, breast reconstruction will leave some scars, both on the breast and at the donor site, for flap procedures. Scars generally fade over time but will always be present to some degree. Patients should discuss their concerns with their surgeon, who can offer options for minimising scar visibility.
• Asymmetry: Achieving perfect symmetry between the reconstructed breast and the natural breast can be challenging. While every effort is made to create a balanced appearance, minor differences in size, shape, or position may occur.
• Delayed Healing: Some patients may experience slower healing due to factors such as age, smoking, or underlying health conditions. Delayed healing can increase the risk of infection and other complications and may prolong the recovery process.

Ideal Candidates for Breast Reconstruction

While breast reconstruction can be a life-changing procedure, it’s not suitable for everyone. Several factors must be considered to determine whether a patient is a good candidate for breast reconstruction.

1. Physical Health

Patients must be in good overall health to undergo breast reconstruction. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders can complicate the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Additionally, patients who smoke or have a history of blood clotting disorders may be at higher risk for complications during and after surgery.

2. Timing of Reconstruction

As discussed earlier, breast reconstruction can be done immediately after a mastectomy or delayed until after other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, are complete. Patients must discuss the timing of reconstruction with their healthcare provider to determine the best approach based on their individual treatment plan and overall health.

3. Realistic Expectations

It’s essential for patients to have realistic expectations about the results of breast reconstruction. While the goal is to create a breast that closely resembles the natural breast in size and shape, it may not be possible to achieve perfect symmetry or an exact match to the patient’s pre-mastectomy appearance. Patients should also understand that the reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation as a natural breast, although some sensations may return over time.

4. Emotional Readiness

Breast reconstruction is a highly personal decision, and it’s important for patients to be emotionally prepared for the physical and emotional journey ahead. Some women may feel excited about the prospect of restoring their body image, while others may have mixed feelings about the procedure. At RG Aesthetics, we provide emotional support throughout the process, including access to counselling services and support groups for patients who need additional assistance in coping with the emotional aspects of reconstruction.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Breast Reconstruction

The total cost of breast reconstruction surgery can vary based on several factors:

1. Type of Reconstruction: The cost varies depending on whether you opt for implant-based reconstruction or autologous (flap) reconstruction. Flap procedures tend to be more complex and involve longer operating times, which can increase the cost.
2. Immediate vs. Delayed Reconstruction: Immediate reconstruction (performed during mastectomy) may differ in cost compared to delayed reconstruction, which can require multiple stages or surgeries.
3. Hospital Stay and Recovery: The length of the hospital stay, the complexity of the procedure, and the need for additional services like post-operative care, physical therapy, or revisions may affect the total cost.
4. Nipple and Areola Reconstruction: The inclusion of nipple and areola reconstruction, which can be done through surgical techniques or medical tattooing, may add to the overall cost.
5. Use of Advanced Techniques: Microvascular-free flap surgery, such as DIEP or TUG flaps, generally costs more than traditional methods due to its complexity and the specialised skills required.

 

Estimated Cost Range

While the exact cost depends on individual circumstances, here’s a general estimate of breast reconstruction costs at RG Aesthetics:

• Implant-Based Reconstruction: The cost typically ranges between $5,000 – $8,000 (approx. ₹4,00,000 – ₹6,50,000) depending on whether a tissue expander is needed or if it’s a direct-to-implant approach.
• Autologous Tissue Reconstruction (Flap Procedures): These procedures range from $8,000 – $15,000 (approx. ₹6,50,000 – ₹12,00,000), reflecting the complexity and specialised nature of the surgery.
• Nipple and Areola Reconstruction: This is typically the final step in breast reconstruction, but it’s important to note that nipple reconstruction and areola tattooing are done separately, with at least a 3-month gap between the two procedures. Each of these steps incurs its own cost. Generally, nipple reconstruction may cost between $1,000 – $2,000 (approx. ₹80,000 – ₹1,60,000), while areola tattooing involves additional expenses based on the complexity and technique used.

These are estimated costs and may vary based on your personalised treatment plan, the specific techniques used, and other medical factors.

Why Choose RG Aesthetics and the Recon Team led by Dr. Rajat Gupta and Dr. Juhi Agrawal for Breast Reconstruction?

When choosing where to undergo breast reconstruction, it’s essential to select a facility and a surgeon with a reputation for excellence in both medical care and patient support. At RG Aesthetics, the breast recon team is led by the renowned surgeons Dr. Rajat Gupta and Dr. Juhi Agrawal. We provide a comprehensive, compassionate approach to breast reconstruction that goes beyond the operating room.

Here’s why the team is the right choice for your breast reconstruction journey:

Knowledge Centre

For Patient Education