​What is Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction?

 

Implant-based reconstruction recreates the breast mound using a prosthetic implant rather than tissue from another part of the body.

It is the most common form of reconstruction following mastectomy and can provide an excellent cosmetic result with a relatively short operation and recovery time.

 

There are two main approaches:

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• Immediate reconstruction: performed at the same time as mastectomy, preserving skin (and sometimes the nipple) for a more natural appearance.

• Delayed reconstruction: performed months or years after mastectomy, once the chest wall has fully healed.

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Before the Procedure

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• Your surgeon will discuss the type and timing of reconstruction that best suits your cancer treatment and body shape.

• Bring your breast imaging and reports if performed outside the hospital.

• Please bring your surgical bra—you will wear it the day after surgery.

• You’ll arrive fasting as instructed and meet the surgical and anaesthetic team before going to theatre.

• The chest will be marked to plan the incision and implant placement.

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During the Procedure

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• Anaesthesia:

The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep throughout.

• Preparation and Mastectomy:

If the reconstruction is immediate, the breast tissue is removed first, either through a skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy incision.

• Implant Placement:

The implant is placed above the muscle (prepectoral) to minimise postoperative pain and animation of the implant.

A TiLOOP® Bra Pocket mesh will be used to hold the implant in place and provide a smooth, natural contour.

• Drains:

One small drain is placed to prevent fluid accumulation during recovery.

• Closure and Dressing:

The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures and sealed with glue or steri-strips.

A surgical bra will be applied before you leave the hospital to provide gentle support and reduce swelling.

• Duration:

The operation typically takes 2–3 hours, depending on whether it’s combined with mastectomy or lymph node surgery.

Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two nights.

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After the Procedure

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• You’ll be monitored in the recovery area before returning to the ward.

• The drains are usually removed within a few days once drainage is minimal.

• Mild tightness or pressure around the chest is normal as the skin and muscle adjust to the implant.

• Breast contour will mature with time — early postoperative irregularity or firmness is common and not concerning. The final shape and softness gradually settle over several months as swelling subsides and tissues relax.

• Your dressing is waterproof, and you can shower from the day after surgery.

• Continue wearing your surgical bra day and night for at least two weeks to support the reconstruction and reduce swelling.

• You’ll be advised on gentle arm and shoulder exercises to maintain flexibility.

• Driving is permitted after your first postoperative review, once arm movement is comfortable and you’re off strong pain medication.

 

Your surgeon will review you regularly to assess healing and symmetry.

If tissue expanders were used, they can be gradually filled with saline in the clinic until the desired breast volume is achieved before exchanging them for a permanent implant.

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Possible Risks and Side Effects

 

As with any surgery, risks include:

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• Bleeding or infection

• Seroma (fluid collection)

• Wound healing delay

• Pain or tightness across the chest

• Implant displacement or asymmetry

• Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant)

• Rarely, loss of the implant due to infection or skin necrosis

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Benefits of Implant-Based Reconstruction

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• Restores breast shape and symmetry after mastectomy

• Avoids the need for tissue transfer from another body site

• Shorter surgery and recovery compared to flap reconstruction

• Suitable for patients with low to moderate body fat

• Can be combined with nipple-sparing or skin-sparing mastectomy for a natural result

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Key Points

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• Recreates breast shape using a silicone or saline implant

• Can be performed immediately after mastectomy or later

• Surgical bra provided and fitted immediately after surgery

• You can shower the day after surgery

• Wear surgical bra continuously for at least two weeks

• Driving is permitted after your first postoperative review

• Typical hospital stay: one to two nights, with small drains in place for several days

Why Choose Breast and Wellness Centre?  

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•  Comprehensive Care: Advanced diagnostic tools for accurate and timely results.  

•  Experienced Team: Skilled specialists with extensive experience in breast cancer diagnosis.  

•  Personalised Approach: Tailored diagnostic pathways based on your symptoms and risk factors.  

•  Compassionate Environment: Supportive care at every step of the diagnostic process.