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Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

Implant-based breast reconstruction is one of the most commonly performed techniques used to restore breast shape following mastectomy for breast cancer or risk-reducing surgery. This approach uses breast implants to recreate breast volume and contour while aiming to achieve a natural, balanced appearance tailored to the individual patient.

A/Prof Farid Meybodi works closely with experienced reconstructive and multidisciplinary breast cancer teams to provide personalised implant-based reconstruction planning focused on cancer safety, aesthetic outcomes, symmetry, and long-term wellbeing.

A Personalised Approach to Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is highly individualised. Treatment planning considers:

  • Cancer diagnosis and treatment requirements
  • Breast size and shape
  • Skin quality and breast anatomy
  • Radiation therapy considerations
  • Overall health and lifestyle factors
  • Patient preferences and long-term goals

Some women choose immediate reconstruction performed at the same time as mastectomy, while others may prefer delayed reconstruction after completing cancer treatment.

Immediate & Delayed Reconstruction

Immediate Reconstruction

Immediate implant reconstruction is performed during the same operation as mastectomy. This approach may:

  • Reduce the total number of surgeries
  • Preserve the breast skin envelope
  • Improve cosmetic outcomes
  • Support emotional recovery following mastectomy

In selected patients, nipple-sparing or skin-sparing mastectomy techniques may also be considered as part of the reconstructive plan.

Delayed Reconstruction

Delayed reconstruction is performed after mastectomy and may be recommended when:

  • Radiation therapy is required
  • Additional cancer treatment is still ongoing
  • Patients prefer reconstruction at a later stage
  • Further healing or medical optimisation is needed

Both approaches are carefully individualised depending on the patient’s cancer treatment pathway and reconstructive goals.

Direct-to-Implant & Tissue Expander Reconstruction

Implant reconstruction may be performed using either:

  • Direct-to-implant reconstruction
  • Tissue expander reconstruction

Direct-to-Implant Reconstruction

In selected patients, a permanent implant can sometimes be placed immediately at the time of mastectomy. This is known as direct-to-implant reconstruction and may avoid the need for a temporary tissue expander.

Tissue Expander Reconstruction

Some patients require a staged approach using a temporary tissue expander. The expander gradually stretches the skin and soft tissues before being exchanged for a permanent implant at a later procedure.

The most appropriate approach depends on:

  • Skin quality and breast anatomy
  • Planned radiation therapy
  • Breast size and symmetry goals
  • Mastectomy type
  • Overall reconstructive planning

Implant Placement & Surgical Planning

Modern implant reconstruction techniques may involve placing the implant:

  • Above the chest muscle (prepectoral)
  • Beneath the chest muscle (subpectoral)

Surgical planning is highly personalised and may also include:

  • Use of supportive mesh or acellular dermal matrix
  • Fat grafting or lipofilling
  • Symmetrisation procedures on the opposite breast
  • Revision procedures to optimise contour and balance

Careful planning helps support both reconstructive outcomes and long-term breast symmetry.

Fat Grafting & Revision Procedures

Fat grafting, also known as lipofilling, is commonly used alongside implant reconstruction to:

  • Improve contour irregularities
  • Soften implant edges
  • Improve symmetry
  • Restore volume deficiencies
  • Improve tissue quality following radiation therapy

Some patients may also benefit from revision or balancing procedures over time as part of their long-term reconstructive journey.

Recovery After Implant Reconstruction

Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery performed and whether reconstruction occurs immediately or in stages.

Patients may experience:

  • Swelling and bruising
  • Tightness across the chest
  • Temporary discomfort or fatigue
  • Changes in breast sensation
  • Gradual settling of implant position over time

Patients receive detailed post-operative guidance regarding wound care, activity restrictions, support garments, and follow-up appointments.

Risks & Considerations

As with all breast surgery procedures, implant-based reconstruction carries potential risks and complications which may include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Implant malposition
  • Capsular contracture
  • Implant rupture or leakage
  • Asymmetry
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Need for revision surgery

Radiation therapy may increase the risk of certain complications and is carefully considered during reconstructive planning.

Multidisciplinary Breast Reconstruction Care

Implant-based reconstruction often forms part of a coordinated multidisciplinary breast cancer treatment pathway involving:

  • Breast surgeons
  • Reconstructive surgeons
  • Medical oncologists
  • Radiation oncologists
  • Breast radiologists
  • Physiotherapists and lymphoedema therapists
  • Breast care nurses and allied health professionals

This collaborative approach helps ensure treatment remains personalised, evidence-based, and focused on both cancer outcomes and quality of life.

Compassionate, Personalised Care

Associate Professor Farid Meybodi understands that breast reconstruction is a deeply personal decision. Every patient’s goals, priorities, and treatment journey are different.

Our goal is to provide thoughtful surgical care, clear communication, and coordinated multidisciplinary support throughout every stage of reconstruction, recovery, and long-term follow-up.

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