Breast Reconstruction Surgery Before and After

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Breast reconstruction surgery is a procedure that restores the shape, symmetry, and appearance of one or both breasts after a mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer or congenital defects. The goal is to help patients reclaim their confidence and body image.

There are different types of reconstruction, including implant-based and autologous (using your own tissue), and each option is customized based on the patient’s body, health, and personal preferences.

• Patients who have undergone mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts) due to breast cancer.

• Individuals with partial breast removal (lumpectomy) who have significant breast deformity or asymmetry

• Patients with congenital absence or underdevelopment of the breast (such as Poland syndrome).

• Those with breast deformities from trauma, infection, or previous surgery.

Before surgery:  pre-operative laboratories and medical clearance is done to ensure the patient is healthy.  Baseline Breast Ultrasound and Breast Mammogram are done prior to surgery.  

Anesthesia: done under general anesthesia in a hospital setting.  You are admitted in the hospital for 4-7 days depending on type of surgery

Incision: Breast reconstruction is done by creating a new breast shape either using implants or the patient’s own tissue from another part of the body, such as the abdomen or back. The procedure may be done at the same time as mastectomy or in stages, depending on the patient’s condition and treatment plan. Additional steps, like nipple reconstruction or symmetry procedures on the opposite breast, may be performed later to achieve a more natural appearance.

Procedure Time:  around 3--5 hours depending on type of breast reconstruction

Types of Breast Reconstruction include:

• Implant-based reconstruction – Uses silicone or saline implants to recreate the breast shape, often done in stages with a tissue expander first.

• Autologous ( flap) reconstruction – Uses the patient’s own tissue (skin, fat, sometimes muscle) from areas like the abdomen (TRAM Flap), back, thighs, or buttocks to form a natural-feeling breast.

• Combination reconstruction – Combines a flap procedure with an implant to achieve better volume and contour.

• Direct-to-implant reconstruction – Places a permanent implant immediately after mastectomy without using a tissue expander.

• Delayed reconstruction – Performed months or years after mastectomy, often after completing other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

• Post-op Course: You will be discharged from the hospital with drains out of the breast, which will be removed after 1-3 weeks.  Oral antibiotics and pain reliever are taken for 1-2 weeks.  Expect swelling for 3-4 weeks over the breast.  Frequent ice compress is advised to help with the swelling.  

• Suture Removal: sutures are removed after 10-14 days.  Drains will be removed if output is less than 20cc in 24 hours.
   
• Downtime: 2-4 weeks for swelling; most return to work in 3-4 weeks.

• Scarring:  scars are usually visible for 1-3 months and will gradually fade over 6-12 months
   
• Results: Expect the breasts to be swollen for the first few months after surgery.  The breasts will gradually settle down to a more natural look in 6-12 months. 

Q: Is breast reconstruction required after cancer surgery?
A: No. It’s a personal choice — many women choose it for emotional healing and body confidence, but others feel comfortable without reconstruction.

Q: Will my reconstructed breast look natural?
A: Dr. Aicee carefully designs each reconstruction to match your body proportions and preferences, aiming for natural shape and symmetry.

Q: Can I have reconstruction if I already had cancer surgery years ago?
A: Yes! Delayed reconstruction is always an option — even years after mastectomy or lumpectomy.

Q: Is this covered by insurance or PhilHealth?
A: In some cases, breast reconstruction may be partially or fully covered. 

Dr. Aicee Bernal is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a gentle, patient-first approach. She brings extensive experience in oncologic reconstruction, helping breast cancer survivors restore not just their physical form — but their sense of wholeness and femininity.

Rebuild confidence, restore your body, and honor your journey as a survivor.
Schedule a confidential breast reconstruction consultation with Dr. Aicee Bernal, and explore your options in a safe, supportive environment.