MED0001602957. This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.

Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy

Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy in Sydney

Home » Procedures » Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy

Overview

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a surgical process that may be performed to recreate a breast mound following breast removal, which is commonly part of breast cancer management or risk-reduction surgery. Reconstruction planning is individualised and considers factors such as your anatomy, the type of mastectomy, overall health, and any current or planned cancer treatments (including radiotherapy). A consultation is required to discuss suitability, the stages of reconstruction, expected outcomes and limitations, risks, scarring, recovery, and alternatives.

Add volume to breasts

Reduce sagging

Lift and tighten

Reshape and contour

Before & After

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

About This Procedure

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy may involve rebuilding the breast using:

Implants, or
Your own tissue (autologous reconstruction / flap surgery), or
A combination of both approaches.

Reconstruction may be performed at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later date (delayed reconstruction). Some people have reconstruction in multiple stages. The aim is to create a breast shape that is appropriate for the individual and the clinical context. Symmetry cannot be guaranteed, and additional procedures may be recommended to refine contour or address balance between sides.

Your Consultation with Dr Lajevardi

Dr Sepehr Lajevardi is a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, dedicated to providing exceptional results to each patient. He takes a caring approach, working with patients to create an individualised treatment plan that helps them feel confident in their outcomes. Book your appointment to receive professional care and guidance from Dr Lajevardi, and find out if breast augmentation surgery is right for you.

Key Benefits

The decision to undergo breast reconstruction is personal and should be made with appropriate clinical advice. Depending on individual circumstances, potential outcomes may include:

Recreating a breast mound

which may assist with overall chest contour.

Reducing reliance on external prostheses

some people may reduce or stop using external breast forms; this varies.

Clothing fit considerations

some people report changes in how clothing fits; this varies.

Staged reconstruction options

reconstruction can be planned around medical treatment and recovery needs.

Outcomes vary and depend on the type of reconstruction, healing, cancer treatment factors (including radiotherapy), and individual anatomy.

Complete Breast Guide

Get step-by-step insights, recovery tips, and expert recommendations for your Breast. Download our free guide today.

Ideal Candidate

A suitable candidate is generally someone who has had (or is planning) a mastectomy and is seeking advice on reconstruction options. Suitability depends on medical history, current health, cancer treatment planning, smoking status, and individual risk factors. A consultation is required to discuss goals, limitations, and whether immediate or delayed reconstruction is appropriate.

You May Be a Good Candidate If

You may be a good candidate for breast reconstruction if you:

Are in good overall physical health (as assessed clinically)
Have discussed reconstruction timing with your treating team (e.g., breast surgeon/oncology team)
Have realistic expectations about variability in outcomes, scarring, and the possibility of staged procedures
Do not smoke or are willing to stop nicotine use for a specified period before and after surgery (as directed)
Have anatomy that supports the planned reconstruction method (for example, adequate donor tissue for a flap, or suitability for an implant-based approach)

Who Should Not Undergo This Procedure

Reconstruction may be unsuitable or higher risk for individuals who:

Have uncontrolled medical conditions that increase surgical risk
Have an active infection
Are unable to stop nicotine use where clinically required
Have factors that significantly increase healing risks (for example, compromised blood supply to the chest area)
Have unrealistic expectations regarding symmetry, scarring, or the number of stages required

Surgical Techniques & Approaches

Breast reconstruction is individualised. The choice of technique depends on anatomy, the mastectomy type, skin quality, previous surgery, and whether radiotherapy is planned or has occurred. Broad approaches include:

Implant-Based Reconstruction:

This approach uses an implant to create the breast mound. It may be performed as:

A two-stage process with a tissue expander followed by exchange to a permanent implant, or
A single-stage approach in selected cases, depending on clinical factors.

Your surgeon will explain implant options, the likely number of stages, and implant-related risks. Implants are not lifetime devices and may require future surgery.

Tissue-Based (Flap) Reconstruction:

This approach uses your own tissue (skin and fat, and sometimes muscle) from another part of the body. Common donor sites include the abdomen, back, or buttock region. Examples of flap techniques include DIEP flap and latissimus dorsi flap, among others.

Flap procedures are complex operations and involve scarring at both the breast and donor site. Suitability depends on anatomy and medical factors, and not every patient is a candidate for every flap type.

Your surgeon will explain recommended options, incision planning, scarring expectations, and the trade-offs of each approach.

Anesthesia

Breast reconstruction is commonly performed under general anaesthesia. The anaesthesia plan depends on the type and extent of reconstruction, patient factors, and the operating facility’s protocols and will be discussed during consultation.

Pre-Operative Preparation

Preparation typically includes:

Medical review: including medications, supplements, and relevant investigations (where required).
Medication guidance: you may be asked to stop certain medications/supplements that can increase bleeding risk (where clinically appropriate).
Nicotine cessation: nicotine can impair healing; you may be asked to stop smoking/vaping/nicotine products for a specified period before and after surgery.
Fasting instructions: follow the facility’s requirements prior to anaesthesia.
Support planning: arrange transport and post-operative support after discharge.

Recovery Process

Recovery varies significantly depending on the reconstruction method (implant-based vs flap-based), whether surgery is staged, and individual healing.

Timeline

Activity & Expectations

Immediately Post-Op

Monitoring occurs in recovery. Dressings and sometimes drains may be used. Swelling, bruising and discomfort can occur.

First 24–48 Hours

Hospital stay length varies depending on the procedure and your clinical needs. Early mobilisation (such as short walks) may be encouraged as advised.

Week 1

Follow-up is typically scheduled. Drains may be managed or removed depending on output and clinical assessment. Assistance at home may be helpful.

Weeks 2–4

Gradual increase in daily activity may be possible depending on healing. Lifting restrictions often apply.

1–3 Months

Ongoing changes in swelling, contour and scar healing occur. Return to exercise is guided by clinical review and depends on donor site healing (if applicable).

6+ Months

Scars continue to mature. Breast shape and contour can continue to evolve. Timelines vary, particularly when reconstruction is staged.

Recovery Milestones

Return to Work

Timing varies depending on the type of reconstruction, whether a donor site is involved, and the physical demands of your work.

Return to Exercise

Light activity may be resumed as advised. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically restricted for a period determined by your surgeon, especially after flap reconstruction.

Appearance over time

Changes in swelling and contour occur over months. Reconstruction may involve multiple stages, and there is no single timeline that applies to everyone.

Resources & Guides

A breast augmentation is a very customized procedure, and selecting an experienced surgeon is paramount. Dr. Lajevardi focuses on patient safety, naturally appearing results, and transparency throughout the process.

Patient Preparation Guide

Get a Guide

Procedure Walkthroughs

Get a Guide

Procedure Walkthroughs

Get a Guide

Patient Preparation Guide

Get a Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Procedure & Results

How long does Breast Reconstruction surgery take?

Timing varies depending on the reconstruction method and whether it is staged. Your surgeon will provide an estimate after assessment.

Will I have noticeable scars?

All surgery results in scars. Reconstruction involves scars on the breast and, for flap reconstruction, at the donor site. Scar visibility varies and depends on individual healing and aftercare.

How long will the results last?

Longevity varies. Autologous (tissue-based) reconstruction changes over time with the body. Implant-based reconstruction may require additional surgery in the future because implants are not lifetime devices. Ageing, weight changes, and cancer treatments such as radiotherapy can influence long-term appearance.

What are the risks associated with Breast Reconstruction?

Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, delayed wound healing, seroma, changes in sensation, and anaesthetic risks. Implant-related risks include capsular contracture, rupture/deflation, and malposition. Flap-related risks include partial or total flap compromise, donor site complications, and longer recovery. A detailed discussion of risks and alternatives will occur during consultation.

Pain & Recovery

Is the Breast Reconstruction procedure painful?

Discomfort varies depending on the procedure type and individual factors. Pain management strategies will be discussed and provided as part of your care plan.

What kind of pain medication will I be given?

Medication plans vary depending on clinical needs and individual factors. Your treating team will discuss appropriate options and safety considerations.

When can I shower after surgery?

This depends on dressings, drain use (if applicable), incision healing, and your surgeon’s instructions. You will receive written guidance before discharge. Submerging incisions (bath/pool/ocean) is usually restricted for a period.

Safety & Credentials

Are the surgeons appropriately qualified?

You should confirm your surgeon’s qualifications, scope of practice, and AHPRA specialist registration. You can verify registration on the AHPRA website.

Where will the surgery be performed? Is the facility accredited?

Surgery is performed in an appropriate licensed surgical facility or hospital setting. Facility details and aftercare arrangements will be discussed during consultation.

Important Safety Information

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.