Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction is a plastic surgery procedure designed to restore the shape and appearance of the breast after complete or partial breast removal, commonly following mastectomy for breast cancer. The procedure can help rebuild breast contour, improve body balance, and support emotional recovery for patients who have experienced changes in breast shape or volume after breast surgery.

At Yanhee International Hospital, Breast Reconstruction is planned according to each patient’s condition, previous surgery, body structure, treatment history, and personal expectations. The decision to undergo reconstruction is highly personal. Some patients choose immediate reconstruction, while others may delay the procedure until they feel physically and emotionally ready.

When to Have Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction can be performed immediately after mastectomy or at a later stage. Immediate reconstruction may help patients avoid another major surgery later and may help preserve breast skin for selected reconstruction techniques. Delayed reconstruction gives patients more time to recover from mastectomy, consider treatment options, and decide what type of reconstruction is most suitable for them.

Patients should discuss timing carefully with their healthcare team, especially if they require additional cancer treatment or have specific medical conditions that may affect wound healing or surgical planning.

Preparation Before Surgery

Before Breast Reconstruction surgery, patients should follow the surgeon’s instructions carefully. Yanhee advises patients to stop smoking and avoid alcohol at least two weeks before surgery, stop hormonal pills, herbal supplements, or unapproved medications, and obtain medical clearance if they have underlying health conditions.

Recovery and Aftercare

After surgery, most patients can begin walking slowly the next day and gradually improve over the following days. Swelling and bruising are common and usually improve within about 2 weeks. Patients should avoid heavy lifting, swimming, strenuous activity, and direct contact with the breasts for around 4 weeks.

Patients are typically admitted for 1–2 nights and should return for a follow-up check-up around 7–10 days after surgery before considering travel or returning to work. Full wound healing and final results may gradually develop over 6–12 months.

Possible Risks

As with any surgery, Breast Reconstruction may involve risks such as bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, scarring, asymmetry, numbness, nerve injury, adverse reaction to anesthesia, capsular contracture, implant leakage, rippling, or the need for revision surgery. Patients should discuss all possible risks, limitations, and expected results with their surgeon before making a decision.

Key Service Summary

Breast Reconstruction at Yanhee International Hospital is a personalized plastic surgery service for patients who want to restore breast shape and appearance after mastectomy or breast surgery. The service includes consultation, surgical planning, selection of reconstruction method, surgery under general anesthesia, hospital care, post-operative guidance, and follow-up support. Treatment options may include implant reconstruction, DIEP Flap, TRAM Flap, or Latissimus Dorsi Flap, depending on the patient’s medical condition, body structure, and desired outcome.