The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons
Reconstruction of the breasts following cancer excision is an essential component of cancer therapy which emphasizes the importance of quality of life after successful treatment of breast cancer. There are multiple techniques for breast reconstruction ranging from use of implants to one’s own tissue or variations of each.
Morad Askari, MD, MBA, FACS
Implant-based breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape and appearance of the breast following a mastectomy (breast removal due to cancer or risk of cancer). This method uses a saline or silicone breast implant to rebuild the breast mound, often in a staged approach involving a tissue expander.
This is the most common type of breast reconstruction in the U.S. and can provide natural-looking, symmetrical results with minimal recovery time compared to flap-based procedures.
Implant reconstruction offers several advantages:
You may be a good candidate for implant-based reconstruction if:
Your surgeon will work closely with your oncologist to determine the safest and most effective timing and technique for your reconstruction.
Implant-based breast reconstruction happens either immediately during your mastectomy or as a delayed procedure weeks or months later. Immediate reconstruction preserves the breast skin envelope, while delayed reconstruction may be necessary if radiation therapy is part of your treatment. The initial surgery takes 2 to 3 hours, with most patients going home the same day.
If tissue expansion is needed, you’ll visit the office every 1-2 weeks where a small amount of saline is gradually added to stretch the skin and muscle. This phase lasts a few weeks to months depending on your body’s response, after which a second surgery exchanges the expander for a permanent implant.
The second-stage surgery is simpler – the expander is removed, your permanent implant is placed, and recovery is typically faster at 1-2 weeks. Follow-up visits monitor healing and symmetry, with your final result continuing to improve over several months.
As with any surgery, there are some risks and limitations to consider:
Your surgeon will review all risks and how they apply to your specific case during your consultation.
Yes. Surgeons carefully shape the breast using modern implants and techniques. While results vary, most patients are pleased with the appearance.
Implants are long-lasting, but not considered lifetime devices. They may eventually need to be replaced due to aging, rupture, or other changes.
Yes, but radiation can increase the risk of complications. In some cases, delayed reconstruction or alternative techniques may be recommended.
Initial recovery takes about 2–3 weeks, with full recovery in about 6 weeks. If a tissue expander is used, the timeline is slightly longer.
Usually, yes. Most implant-based reconstructions are staged, with at least two surgeries (expander placement and implant exchange). Minor revisions may be needed later.
What Should I Do Next?
Schedule a consultation with an FSPS member and discover how breast reconstruction can help you feel more confident in your skin.