This surgery refers to the reconstruction of the breast that has been removed by mastectomy. The reconstruction process can be applied simultaneously with the mastectomy or after a period of time.

The advantage of a simultaneous -with the mastectomy- reconstruction surgery, is that the woman regains practically immediately after the surgery –up to a certain extent – the sensation of both her breasts.

There are two categories of surgery and many modern methods of breast reconstruction, some simpler and others more complex.

In the first category specialized tissue expanders and silicone implants (which are completely safe) are applied, whose quality and variety of choice have greatly improved in recent years.

In the second category, we use the so-called myocutaneous flaps, which are parts of the skin with plenty of subcutaneous fat, that are transferred from another part of the body – such as the back, abdomen or buttocks – in a special way, to the location of the removed breast. In this case, we usually do not use silicone implants.

In some cases we need to intervene in the healthy breast with reduction, increase or erection to finally achieve the best possible symmetry between the two breasts. In most cases the aesthetic result after the operation is very satisfactory, helps and significantly improves the quality of life.

The appropriate method, is a matter of discussion between the patient and the plastic surgeon and, in consultation with the breast surgeon, they will come up with the appropriate solution for her.

Breast reconstruction has no effect on recurrence of the disease and does not prevent postoperative administration of prophylactic chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Most women with breast cancer, may receive breast reconstruction at the same time as the mastectomy. However, there are cases where, for oncological reasons, breast reconstruction should be delayed and done in a second phase.

The woman who will be diagnosed with breast cancer and will discuss her treatment, it is advisable to be informed at the same time about the possibility of rehabilitation. The breast surgeon can refer her to the plastic surgeon for more detailed information. This provides the opportunity for women to face breast cancer more positively and to envisage the future with optimism.

Mastectomy creates stress, lack of self-confidence, loss of femininity, a feeling of sexual rejection, and although breast reconstruction cannot naturally replace the breast she lost due to the disease, the benefits are significant. The new “breast” will be much better and more acceptable than any external prosthesis attached to the bra.

The woman is significantly facilitated in her daily activities (e.g. dressing up, exercising, vacations) since she does not risk to lose the prothesis, resulting to her feeing self-confident and reassured.

The range of options that exist enable us to achieve satisfactory aesthetical results and most of all, durable and reproducible for the majority of women.