When can breast reconstruction be carried out?

Doctors have different views about the best timing for breast reconstruction. Many prefer to do it at the same time as the initial breast cancer surgery|. Others believe it’s important to wait for a while, possibly a year or more after having a breast removed, especially if radiotherapy| is being considered after mastectomy|. Waiting a while before the reconstruction may also give you time to come to terms with the emotional effects| of the cancer and its treatment.

If you have had radiotherapy after the initial surgery to remove your breast, you will have to wait for some months to have reconstruction. This is to let the skin in the treated area completely recover. Otherwise, there is no physical or medical reason to wait to have the reconstruction.

If you think that you might want to have breast reconstruction, it’s a good idea to mention this before your initial operation. You don’t have to make a definite decision at this stage, but it will help the surgeon to decide on the way the initial surgery is carried out.

Some women find that having reconstruction at the same time as their initial surgery helps them to cope better emotionally as they have no time without a breast shape. Immediate reconstruction means you only need to have one operation and recovery period. However, the operation will be longer and you may also have to wait longer for the operation as two teams of surgeons may be involved.

If you’re interested in having an immediate reconstruction, you should discuss this with your surgeon, who will tell you if it’s possible. They may still recommend a delay, particularly if you’re likely to have radiotherapy.

Some women find that after a while they aren't as upset by having a mastectomy as they had expected and they don’t want to have further surgery. In this situation you can choose to wear a false breast (prosthesis). Our nurses| can send you information about external breast prostheses.

A typical appearance following a mastectomy (Photo supplied by Victoria Harmer)

If you have planned to have a reconstruction at a later date, but then feel that you don’t want to have further surgery, it’s fine to change your mind. It’s important that you feel happy with your decision - you can discuss it with your surgeon, breast care nurse or a support organisation|.