Reconstruction with Implants

Breast Reconstruction with Implants

The breast reconstruction with implants is a modern and widespread option for breast reconstruction after mastectomy due to breast cancer. This technique involves reshaping the chest wall so that a silicone implant can be placed, offering satisfactory volume and a natural aesthetic result.

Types of Implant-Based Reconstruction

1. Immediate Breast Reconstruction

Immediate reconstruction is performed during the same operation as the mastectomy. The implant is placed either under the chest muscle or directly under the skin in cases where the skin envelope is preserved, with or without the nipple (skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy).

Often, it is used additionally synthetic or biological mesh for greater support of the implant. This technique offers an immediate aesthetic result, but is usually not recommended when postoperative radiotherapy, due to an increased risk of healing complications.

2. Two-Stage (Delayed) Reconstruction

In this case, a first tissue expander , which is gradually filled with saline in the weeks following the surgery. This process allows for the gradual stretching of the muscles and skin.

After 4-6 months, the expander is replaced with a permanent silicone implant. This method is particularly useful for women who will undergo adjunctive radiotherapy, as it allows adjustments to the final restoration.

How to Choose the Right Method?

The choice between immediate and staged reconstruction depends on:

• The type and timing of complementary therapy (chemotherapy or radiotherapy)

• The breast size and shape

• Pre-existing health conditions

• The smoking and obesity

• Τις Personal desires and expectations of every woman

Advantages Compared to Autologous Flaps

Compared to restoration with autologous tissues (e.g. flaps from the abdomen or back), restoration with implants:

• Requires shorter surgery time

• Offers faster recovery

• Is less invasive (no tissue transfer from another site)

• It does not create new scars or risks such as hernias or muscle weakness

However, the result is not always so natural and the implants do not last a lifetime. their replacement It is usually recommended every 15-20 years.

Possible Complications

Although rare, implant-related complications include:

• Infection or inflammation that may require implant removal

• Rupture of the insert

• Capsular contracture : a hardening reaction around the implant that can distort breast shape

• Necrosis of the skin or nipple, especially in smokers or in cases of poor blood circulation

• Loss of sensation in the breast area, which is common and may be permanent

Most of these complications are treatable surgically.

Get Informed. Inform Others. Empower Yourself.

The decision to breast reconstruction is deeply personal and depends on many factors. In breastaware.gr, We provide valid and up-to-date information for every stage of your journey — from diagnosis to recovery.

Stay informed with scientific accuracy and a patient-centered approach.

Bibliography:

1. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines – Breast Cancer, Version 4.2025
2. ASPS/ASBrS/SSO Consensus Guidelines on Breast Reconstruction (2023)
3. Nguyen KT, et al. (2023). "Trends and outcomes in breast reconstruction: Implants vs autologous options." Annals of Surgical Oncology, 30(2), 987–997.
4. Cordeiro PG, et al. (2022). "Implant-based breast reconstruction and radiation therapy: An updated review." Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 149(1), 30e–42e.
5. Jagsi R, et al. (2021). "Patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction after breast reconstruction: A multicenter prospective cohort study." JAMA Surgery, 156(2), 123–132.
6. Odom EB, et al. (2020). "Prepectoral versus subpectoral implant-based breast reconstruction: A meta-analysis." Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, 182(1), 1–13.