Patient Information – Breast Reconstruction in Perth
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to recreate the shape of the breast following a mastectomy for breast cancer. Many women choose reconstruction to restore breast shape and symmetry after treatment.
Breast reconstruction can be performed at the same time as a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or months or years later (delayed reconstruction) depending on your cancer treatment plan and personal preferences.
Dr Ran Li is a breast surgeon in Perth with expertise in modern breast reconstruction techniques. A range of reconstruction options are available, and the most appropriate approach is tailored to each patient’s anatomy, cancer treatment, and personal goals.
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction involves rebuilding the breast shape after removal of breast tissue. The aim is to create a breast mound that looks natural under clothing and restores body symmetry.
Reconstruction may involve:
- Breast implants
- Tissue expanders
- Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap reconstruction
- Reconstruction using tissue from another part of the body
The best option depends on several factors, including:
- Body shape and breast size
- Whether radiotherapy is required
- Overall health and medical history
- Previous breast surgery
- Personal preference
Dr Li offers the full range of implant-based breast reconstruction techniques, and surgical plans are individualised for each patient.
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Implant reconstruction is the most common form of breast reconstruction in Australia.
This involves placing a silicone breast implant to recreate the breast shape following mastectomy.
Implants may be placed in different positions depending on anatomy and surgical goals:
- Pre-pectoral reconstruction – the implant sits above the chest muscle
- Sub-pectoral reconstruction – the implant sits partially under the chest muscle
Modern techniques increasingly use pre-pectoral reconstruction, which may reduce muscle-related pain and avoid movement of the implant when the chest muscle contracts.
Implant reconstruction may be performed as:
Direct-to-Implant Reconstruction
A permanent breast implant is placed at the same time as the mastectomy.
This approach avoids the need for a second operation in some patients.
Two-Stage Reconstruction with a Tissue Expander
In some situations the skin needs to be gradually stretched before placing a permanent implant.
A tissue expander is placed during the initial surgery and gradually filled over several weeks to stretch the skin. Once adequate expansion is achieved, the expander is replaced with a permanent implant.
Latissimus Dorsi (LD) Flap Reconstruction
Latissimus dorsi reconstruction uses muscle and tissue from the upper back to help recreate the breast.
The latissimus dorsi muscle is rotated to the chest to provide additional soft tissue coverage over an implant. This can be particularly helpful in patients who:
- Have thin skin after mastectomy
- Have previously had radiotherapy
- Require additional tissue to support an implant reconstruction
Latissimus dorsi reconstruction is a well-established technique that can provide reliable soft tissue coverage and improve reconstruction outcomes in selected patients.
Reconstruction Using Your Own Tissue
Some patients may choose reconstruction using tissue from another part of the body.
One option is DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap reconstruction, which uses skin and fat from the abdomen to create a new breast.
DIEP reconstruction is a complex microsurgical procedure and is usually performed by specialist plastic surgeons. When this option is appropriate, patients may be referred for joint consultation with a reconstructive plastic surgeon.
Immediate vs Delayed Reconstruction
Immediate Reconstruction
Immediate reconstruction is performed during the same operation as the mastectomy.
Potential advantages include:
- Fewer operations
- Preservation of breast skin
- Improved cosmetic outcomes in some cases
However, this approach may not be suitable for all patients, particularly if post-mastectomy radiotherapy is likely.
Delayed Reconstruction
Delayed reconstruction is performed months or years after mastectomy.
This may be recommended when:
- Radiotherapy is required
- Medical conditions make longer surgery unsuitable
- A patient prefers to complete cancer treatment before reconstruction
Types of Mastectomy Used With Reconstruction
Several mastectomy techniques can be used when planning breast reconstruction.
Skin-Sparing Mastectomy
Most of the breast skin is preserved while the breast tissue is removed. This can help achieve better cosmetic outcomes during reconstruction.
Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy
In selected patients the nipple and areola can be preserved, creating a more natural breast appearance.
Not all patients are suitable candidates for nipple-sparing surgery, and this depends on tumour location and other clinical factors.
What Results Can I Expect?
Breast reconstruction aims to restore breast shape but cannot perfectly replace a natural breast.
Most patients achieve:
- Improved symmetry under clothing
- Restoration of breast contour
- Improved body image after mastectomy
However, reconstructed breasts:
- Often have reduced sensation
- May feel different from natural breast tissue
- May require revision surgery or implant replacement in the future
Risks of Breast Reconstruction
All surgery carries risks. Possible complications include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Seroma (fluid collection)
- Wound healing problems
- Implant infection or loss
- Capsular contracture
- Asymmetry between the breasts
- Need for additional surgery
Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail during consultation.
Recovery After Breast Reconstruction
Recovery varies depending on the reconstruction technique.
For implant-based reconstruction:
- Hospital stay is typically 1–3 days
- Light activity may resume within 2–3 weeks
- Full recovery usually takes 4–6 weeks
Latissimus dorsi reconstruction may involve a slightly longer recovery due to the additional back incision.
Breast Reconstruction in Perth
If you are considering breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery, a consultation allows discussion of:
- The different reconstruction options available
- Timing of reconstruction
- Whether implant or flap reconstruction is most suitable
- Expected outcomes and risks
Each reconstruction plan is individualised based on the patient’s anatomy, cancer treatment, and personal goals.
Book a Consultation
If you would like to discuss breast reconstruction options in Perth, you can arrange a consultation with Dr Ran Li.
During your appointment we will review your diagnosis, discuss the available reconstruction techniques, and develop a personalised surgical plan.