Breast Reconstruction – Rebuilding Confidence After Breast Cancer

Breast reconstruction is about more than reshaping the body — it's about healing, reclaiming identity, and restoring confidence. For many women, it’s the final step after the long, emotional journey of breast cancer treatment. In Belgium, breast reconstruction surgery is fully reimbursed by social security for eligible patients — but that doesn’t make the decision easier. That part is deeply personal.

Let’s walk through the facts, your options, and what to expect.

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that rebuilds the shape and appearance of one or both breasts after a mastectomy (complete removal) or lumpectomy (partial removal). It can also be done preventively (prophylactically) in women with a high genetic risk of breast cancer.

There’s no “one right time” to undergo reconstruction — it can be performed:

• Immediately, during the same surgery as your mastectomy
• Delayed, after treatment or recovery
• Or in a staged approach, starting with tissue expanders and finalizing months later

Importantly, not all women choose to have reconstruction. Some prefer to remain flat, wear external prosthetics, or delay their decision for years. All choices are valid.

Thinking about reconstruction, but unsure where to start? Get clarity on timing, techniques, and what’s medically possible — without pressure. Talk to a breast reconstruction specialist

Surgical Methods: Flap or Implant?

There are two main reconstruction techniques, and each has its pros and cons:

Implant-Based Reconstruction

This method uses a silicone or saline breast implant to recreate breast shape.

Advantages:

• Simpler, shorter surgery
• No additional scars outside the breast
• Quicker recovery time
• Often ideal for women without prior radiation

Limitations:

• Implants may require replacement (usually after 10–20 years)
• Higher risk of complications in irradiated tissue
• May require future corrective surgeries

Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction

This technique uses your own tissue — usually from the abdomen, thighs, back, or buttocks — to build the breast.

Common flap types:

• DIEP flap: taken from the lower abdomen (preserves muscle)
• TRAM flap: also from the abdomen but includes part of the abdominal muscle
• Latissimus dorsi flap: uses muscle and skin from the back
• TUG, SGAP, or PAP flaps: from thighs or buttocks (less common, but valuable options for thin patients)

Advantages:

• Feels and moves more naturally
• No implant-related risks
• Tends to age with the body

Limitations:

• More complex and longer surgery
• Two surgical sites (donor + breast)
• May not be suitable for very slim patients or those with prior abdominal surgeries

Some patients choose hybrid reconstruction (flap + implant) or later refine results with fat grafting.

Not sure which method is right for you? Our guide can help you understand flap vs implant pros and cons — but only a surgeon can tailor it to your body and cancer history. Find a trusted breast reconstruction surgeon near you

Nipple Reconstruction & Tattooing

If your nipple wasn’t preserved during mastectomy, it can be reconstructed in a second procedure. This typically involves creating a small projection of skin and may be followed by tattooing for color.

Alternatively, 3D nipple tattooing alone is now a highly realistic and popular option — either with or without physical reconstruction.

What to Expect After Surgery

Recovery varies depending on the technique used:

• Implant reconstruction: around 2–3 weeks for light activity; full recovery in 4–6 weeks
• Flap reconstruction: 4–6 weeks for light activity; full recovery can take 8+ weeks

Early recovery may include pain, swelling, surgical drains, and limited arm mobility. Wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activity are common recommendations.

It can take up to 12 months for swelling to resolve and results to fully settle. Nipple reconstruction or tattooing is usually done several months later.

Emotional recovery also takes time — many women feel a deep sense of closure, while others need additional support or time to adjust.

Is It Covered in Belgium?

Yes. In Belgium, breast reconstruction is 100% reimbursed through national healthcare (mutuelle/ziekenfonds) following a mastectomy or lumpectomy for cancer. This includes:

• Surgeon and anesthesia fees
• Hospitalization
• Implants or microsurgical flap reconstruction
• Procedures on the other breast for symmetry
• Nipple reconstruction and tattooing

Preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy — for example, due to BRCA mutations — is also reimbursed along with reconstruction.

Covered doesn’t mean one-size-fits-all.
Ask your surgeon about your reimbursement rights and what’s included — from symmetry surgery to tattooing. Explore experienced reconstruction surgeons in Belgium.

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Specific Concerns: Implant Risks

Women considering implants often have valid concerns. Here's what current data shows:

• BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant–Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) is a very rare type of lymphoma primarily associated with textured implants.
  A large 2020 study found an incidence of 1 in 559 patients after 10+ years. It typically appears as swelling or fluid buildup and is treatable if caught early.
• BII (Breast Implant Illness) includes a wide range of symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, joint pain). While not officially recognized as a diagnosis, many women report relief after implant removal.

Choosing smooth implants and working with an experienced surgeon helps reduce risk. Flap-based reconstruction avoids these risks altogether.

Deciding What’s Right for You

Every woman’s situation is different. Your cancer treatment history, body type, personal values, and lifestyle all play a role.

That’s why discussing all your options — without pressure — is essential. Some women prioritize speed and simplicity, others care most about long-term results or avoiding foreign materials.

You deserve time, space, and support to make a decision that feels right.

FAQ