Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a type of surgery that restores the look and feel of your breast after you’ve had a mastectomy (breast removal) or lumpectomy (lump removal) as part of breast cancer treatment. You may be able to have breast reconstruction at the same time as a mastectomy or lumpectomy or later in a separate procedure.

Breast reconstruction is an important part of recovery for many people, since it can help with body image concerns and promote well-being during cancer recovery. Innovations in breast reconstruction have greatly improved results following breast cancer surgery. 

At Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, our reconstructive surgeons work closely with your cancer care team to plan treatment that fits your medical needs and personal goals, supporting you throughout the recovery process.

Request an appointment for a breast reconstruction consultation with Banner MD Anderson’s expert plastic surgeons.

What is breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a type of surgery that recreates your breast’s shape and appearance after breast cancer surgery. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons may use implants, your own tissue from other parts of your body or a combination to reconstruct your breast. The goal is to have breasts that look natural and balanced under clothes.

Some people choose to have breast reconstruction surgery at the same time as their mastectomy, while others wait until they have finished their treatment. Some people may also decide not to have breast reconstruction. Your care team will guide you through every step, no matter what options or timeline you choose.

Your breast reconstruction options

With improved treatments, techniques and devices, many reconstruction options offer good results. We offer several techniques, so you can work with your care team to choose the unique care and treatment plan that best meets your needs. 

Types of breast reconstruction include:

• Implant-based reconstruction: Silicone or saline implants recreate the shape of your breast.
• Autologous (tissue flap) reconstruction: Tissue from your abdomen, back or another area creates a natural result.
  • Learn about abdominal tissue reconstruction (DIEP flap reconstruction or TRAM flap reconstruction)
  • Learn about back tissue reconstruction (latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction)
• Hybrid reconstruction: Your own tissue and an implant are combined to help match your breasts’ size and shape.
• Nipple and areola reconstruction: This optional final step can complete the restoration of your breast. This reconstruction may also include nipple-areolar 3D tattooing.

Your surgeon will explain which options fit your health, anatomy and preferences.

Learn more about the types of breast reconstruction. 

When to have breast reconstruction

You can have reconstruction at the same time as your mastectomy or later.

• Immediate reconstruction: Done at the same time as mastectomy, so you wake up from surgery with a new breast shape in place.
• Delayed reconstruction: Done months or years later, often after you’ve finished radiation or chemotherapy treatments.

You’ll want to talk to your care team about your cancer treatment plan, overall health and personal goals to decide which option is best.

Learn more about immediate vs. delayed reconstruction and what timing may be right for you.

Recovery and aftercare

Healing after breast reconstruction will depend on your specific procedure. Most people stay in the hospital for one to five days and can return to their normal activities after several weeks. Some people need more than one operation.

• Your care team will teach you how to manage incisions and drains and how to exercise safely at home.
• You should expect swelling and soreness at first. These symptoms will get better gradually over a few weeks.
• Physical therapy and follow-up visits can help you heal.

Learn what to expect during recovery and aftercare.

Risks, complications and safety

When you’re considering breast reconstruction, it’s important to be aware of the risks:

• As with all surgeries, you have a risk of infection or bleeding. 
• You may have issues with implants or fluid buildup. 
• With flap procedures, you can have wound-healing problems or changes in sensation.

Your Banner MD Anderson surgical team will watch you closely before, during and after surgery to make sure you’re healing properly and to help reduce your risk of complications.

Learn more about the risks and complications of breast reconstruction.

How to decide what’s right for you

Your breast reconstruction choice depends on your cancer treatment, overall health, body type, previous surgeries, lifestyle, recovery time and how you want your breasts to look and feel.

Your surgeon will discuss each option, recovery time and long-term results as well as insurance coverage and emotional support during recovery. We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make your decision and that you feel supported in your choice.

Find out more about choosing the right breast reconstruction option.

Answers to common questions

You may wonder:

• Will my health insurance cover breast reconstruction?
• What happens if I wait to have reconstruction later, after I finish treatment?
• How long will recovery and healing take?

Get answers to these questions and more by reading our FAQs about breast reconstruction.

Why choose Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center

At Banner MD Anderson, you’ll receive care from surgeons who specialize in breast reconstruction after breast cancer treatment, working closely with your cancer care team.

Our techniques include microsurgical options and state-of-the-art facilities. Plus, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized support so you can heal confidently and feel like yourself again.

Request an appointment