Breast reconstruction
Breast reconstruction restores breast shape after mastectomy, other tissue loss or some developmental differences. It may use implants, a person’s own tissue or both. Reconstruction is optional and cannot guarantee the original appearance or sensation.
What you may notice
- Missing or reduced breast tissue
- Asymmetry after breast surgery
- Changes in contour or skin
- Scars or radiation-related tightness
- Changes to the nipple or areola
Why it can happen
Cancer treatment, injury, previous surgery or developmental differences may alter breast tissue. Radiation, skin quality, available donor tissue, circulation and general health influence which reconstructive methods are suitable.
What may help
Options include implant-based or flap reconstruction, sometimes with later fat grafting, nipple reconstruction or tattooing. Timing should be coordinated with any cancer treatment. External prostheses and choosing a flat chest after mastectomy are valid alternatives. Several operations may be needed, and each approach has different recovery and complication risks.
When to consult
Discuss options with the breast and reconstructive team before treatment when possible, or later if preferred. New lumps or unexplained changes still need assessment after reconstruction. Fever, worsening redness, wound opening or sudden changes in reconstructed tissue require urgent review.
Evidence and sources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast reconstruction [Internet]. Arlington Heights (IL): American Society of Plastic Surgeons; [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/reconstructive-procedures/breast-reconstruction (new tab)
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast reconstruction procedure [Internet]. Arlington Heights (IL): American Society of Plastic Surgeons; [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/reconstructive-procedures/breast-reconstruction/procedure (new tab)
- US Food and Drug Administration. Risks and complications of breast implants [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): FDA; 2024 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants (new tab)
- National Cancer Institute. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Cancer Institute; [updated 2025 Dec 2; cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/treatment/surgery/breast-reconstruction (new tab)