What options are available for breast reconstruction after breast cancer?

Following breast cancer operations and mastectomy there are now a number of options to reconstruct the breast tissue.

In a previous blog post, we’ve talked about oncoplastic techniques which are suitable if you have sufficient breast tissue to allow for breast reduction and removal of the breast cancer in one operation.

If, however, you haven’t sufficient breast tissue to allow this technique the best option is often to introduce new tissue from either an implant or from your back or tummy.

The advantage of inserting a breast implant is that it is a relatively straightforward procedure that does not result in scarring in other areas of your body.

The advantage of transferring that tissue either from your back or your tummy is that it is your own natural tissue that is used to reconstruct the breast. The downside is that you will have a scar on another area of your body.

In future blog posts we will discuss these treatment options in detail, with pros and cons for each of them.