Breast reconstruction is surgery to recreate breasts after a mastectomy. There are several types of breast reconstruction. Some techniques use implants. Others use tissue from your body (such as the belly) to form a breast. Breast reconstruction can happen right after a mastectomy or much later. 

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There are two main types of breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomies.

Flap reconstruction

In flap reconstruction, your surgeon takes tissue from your own body (autologous tissue) and uses it to form a breast

Implant reconstruction

In implant reconstruction, surgeons use saline or silicone implants to recreate breast tissue. Sometimes surgeons use a combination of implants and tissue from your body. Implant reconstruction can happen along with a mastectomy. 

Some types of mastectomy leave the nipple and areola in place

If necessary, providers can create a new nipple. They do this by transferring skin from another part of your body (skin graft) or local skin on the breast to shape into a nipple.

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Dr Mohamed will recommend the most appropriate technique for you based on:

• Your age, overall health and lifestyle.

• The kind of mastectomy or lumpectomy you had and how much tissue remains.

• Whether you need additional treatments for breast cancer (such as chemotherapy or radiation).

• Past surgeries you’ve had that may make it difficult or impossible to take a flap from your belly. One example is abdominal surgery.

• Your goals and desired appearance.