Breast Reconstruction Surgery

If you have surgery as part of your breast cancer treatment, you may choose reconstruction to rebuild the shape and look of your breast. Several types of breast reconstruction are available. Learn about your options and what to expect before and after surgery.

Breast reconstruction after cancer

Breast reconstruction can be done in several ways. It often involves more than one surgery.

If you’re thinking about reconstruction, it’s important to talk with your breast cancer surgeon (surgical oncologist) and a plastic surgeon before your mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery. This gives the surgical team time to plan out your options, even if you decide to wait until later to have reconstruction.

If you need radiation, your reconstruction options may be more limited, so it’s also important to talk to your doctors about this timing.

Take your time to learn about your options so you can make the choice that feels right for you.

When does reconstruction happen?

• Immediate reconstruction: You might be able to have breast reconstruction at the same time as your breast cancer surgery.
• Delayed reconstruction: Some people need to wait until later, or choose to do so.

Some people choose to wait, especially if they don’t want to make decisions during treatment or don’t want extra surgery right away. But keep in mind that the results of your reconstruction may be different depending on whether you have it right away or wait until later. Your surgeon can help you understand your options and what to expect.

Should I get breast reconstruction surgery?

Many people choose to have reconstruction surgery after breast cancer, but it might not be right for everyone. People choose breast reconstruction for many reasons. For example, you might have reconstruction to:

• Make your chest look balanced when you wear a bra or swimsuit
• Help make your clothes fit better
• Regain your breast shape without using an external breast form (breast prosthesis)
• Feel better about your body

Possible risks            

As with any surgery, it’s also important to consider the potential risks and side effects. Breast reconstruction may cause unique problems for some people. Your surgeon will go over these risks with you. Be sure to ask questions if you are unsure about anything.

You can learn more about the possible risks in What to Expect After Breast Reconstruction Surgery.

Healing after surgery

Many things can affect how you heal after breast reconstruction surgery, such as past surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, smoking, diabetes, or weight. Poor blood flow can cause part of the tissue to die. This is called necrosis. It can slow down your healing and may need more surgery.

Because of these risks, you may need to wait before having reconstruction. Quitting smoking at least 2 months before surgery can help healing. In some cases, reconstruction may not be recommended.

What will my breasts look like after surgery?

Breast reconstruction often leaves scars, but these usually fade over time. Newer methods have also reduced the amount of scarring. When you wear a bra after reconstruction, your breasts should be relatively alike in size and shape.

It’s important to know that your reconstructed breast may not look exactly how you expect. You can ask your surgeon to show you examples of people who’ve had reconstruction. This can give you a better idea of what to expect.  

Keep in mind that your reconstructed breast will not be a perfect match or substitute for your natural breast. A rebuilt breast will not feel the same to the touch as a natural breast. You may also have little or no feeling in the breast.

Talking with your plastic surgeon can help you understand what is realistic.

You might also choose to have surgery on the other breast, so both sides look more alike. This is called a symmetrizing procedure. It may include lifting, reducing, or enlarging the other breast.

What other changes should I expect?

If tissue from your belly, back, thigh, or buttocks was used as part of the reconstruction, those areas will also look different after surgery.

Before you make your decision, talk with your surgeon about scars and changes in the shape or contour of your body. Ask where these scars and changes will be and how they will look and feel after they heal.

Can a reconstructed breast hide cancer or make it come back?

Studies show that reconstruction does not make breast cancer come back. If the cancer does come back, reconstructed breasts should not cause problems finding the cancer or treating it.  

• Reconstruction rarely hides a return of breast cancer.
• This is true for both reconstruction with an implant and reconstruction with your own tissue (tissue flap).
• You should not consider this a big risk when deciding to have breast reconstruction.

Finding the right plastic surgeon

Your breast surgeon can help you find a plastic surgeon who should be able to explain all your choices and answer your questions. Your plastic surgeon and breast surgeon will work together to coordinate your care.

If time allows, consider getting a second opinion before having surgery. This can give you more information about your options and help you feel more confident about your choice.

• To find a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area, or to find out if your surgeon is board certified, contact the American Board of Plastic Surgeons.

Preparing for surgery

Your breast surgeon and plastic surgeon will tell you what to expect during surgery and how to get ready ahead of time.

Help and support from someone who’s been there

Support and guidance are available to help you understand your reconstruction options and cope with the changes you're going through. Talking with your healthcare team is a good place to start.

If you’d like to connect with someone who had a similar type of reconstruction, you can download the ACS CARES® app.

Through ACS CARES, you can choose to be matched with a breast cancer survivor who is trained to support others. They will share their experience, offer advice, and suggest helpful resources as you consider or go through reconstruction.