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BREAST SURGERY

Breast Reconstruction

What is breast reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a restorative procedure to rebuild the breasts after a major surgery like a mastectomy, a procedure to remove the breast tissue due to breast cancer. Breast reconstruction occurs directly after the treatment of breast cancer. The choice to undergo breast reconstruction is a personal one. Your plastic and reconstructive surgeon will discuss your surgical options in detail during a consultation. While in consultation, she will discuss your goals, preferences and reconstructive options.

What are the different types of breast reconstruction?

There are two primary forms of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy:

Flap Reconstruction

During flap reconstruction, the surgeon carefully selects and removes your own bodily tissue, known as autologous tissue, to recreate the breast. This tissue is usually taken from the lower belly, but the surgeon may also consider other body areas, such as the back, bottom or thighs, based on your unique situation. The surgeon may also decide to remove skin, fat, blood vessels and muscle from these particular areas to create a new breast that is tailored to your individual needs.

Implant Reconstruction

Implant reconstruction is a rebuilding procedure that utilises silicone or saline breast implants to redevelop the breasts. In some cases, tissue and implants are used to rebuild the chest area.


FAQ

1What is a nipple-sparing procedure?
A nipple-sparing procedure is a surgical option where the nipples are preserved, or 'spared ', during the operation. This means that the nipples are left intact, a procedure known as a nipple-sparing mastectomy when both the nipple and areola are preserved.
2What are the factors to consider when deciding on breast reconstructive surgery?
  • The patient’s age and general health
  • History of previous surgeries
  • Personal goals and individual preferences
  • Whether radiation or chemotherapy is required
3Can cancer still develop in a breast that’s reconstructed?
Breast reconstruction does not increase or decrease the risk of cancer recurrence. While the visible breast tissue is removed during a mastectomy, small amounts of tissue may remain, and in rare cases, cancer can return. Ongoing follow-up care, including regular check-ups and imaging when recommended, remains important after reconstruction.

Dr Phalafala’s Commitment

Dr Phalafala's success lies in her collaborative, detail-oriented approach to complex surgery. She develops personalised treatment plans focused on each patient’s unique needs, supported by a foundation of empathy, communication, and clinical excellence. Her goal is to provide transformative outcomes through reconstructive and cosmetic surgery that not only enhance form and function but also restore confidence and quality of life.

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