Restoring Form Rebuilding Confidence, Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy at Athenaa

What is
Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy

For women undergoing mastectomy, we offer breast reconstruction options that help restore not only the shape of the breast but also confidence and emotional well-being. Reconstruction maybe be immediate or delayed.

Immediate reconstruction is performed during the same surgery as the mastectomy, allowing women to wake up with breast shape already restored. This approach is often preferred when medically suitable, as it offers emotional reassurance and fewer overall surgeries.

Delayed reconstruction is performed weeks, months, or even years after mastectomy. This option is recommended when additional cancer treatments such as radiation are required, or when a woman prefers to focus first on cancer recovery. Delayed reconstruction remains a safe and effective choice and is fully supported at Athenaa.

How the Procedure
is Performed

At Apollo Athenaa, every surgical step is carefully planned and performed by experienced surgeons with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery.

Detailed assessment and surgical planning are done jointly by the breast surgeon and reconstructive surgeon, including incision placement, reconstruction type, and symmetry planning.
Following mastectomy (in immediate cases) or through a prior surgical site (in delayed cases), the chest wall and skin envelope are carefully prepared to receive the reconstruction.
Autologous Reconstruction uses the patient’s own tissue (usually from the abdomen) to recreate the breast. This method avoids the use of foreign materials and offers a more natural feel and longevity.
Implant-Based Reconstruction typically involves placing a tissue expander or a permanent implant immediately after the breast tissue is removed. When required, the expander is gradually filled over time before being replaced with a permanent implant.
Temporary surgical drains are placed to prevent fluid accumulation. Incisions are closed carefully to minimise scarring.
Patients are closely monitored for healing, circulation (in flap procedures), and comfort before transitioning to recovery care.

Recovery

Healing at Apollo Athenaa is supported through structured post-operative care,
counselling, and rehabilitation support.

Hospital Stay

Most patients stay in the hospital for 3–5 days. Recovery may be slightly longer for flap-based reconstructions.

Pain and Healing

Patients can expect moderate discomfort, which is well managed with medications. Drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup.

Resuming Routine

Light activities may be resumed in 2–3 weeks, with full recovery usually taking 6–8 weeks.

Follow-up Care

Our multidisciplinary team ensures comprehensive follow-up care, including wound care, physiotherapy if needed, emotional support, and long-term follow-up.

Key
Advantages

At Apollo Athenaa, surgery is thoughtfully planned with a personalized approach, ensuring safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.

Emotional Restoration

Helps reduce the psychological impact of mastectomy, improving body image and self-esteem.

Flexible Timing

Can be performed immediately or delayed, based on individual needs.

Aesthetic Outcomes

Improved symmetry, contour, and natural appearance. Skin- and nipple-sparing options when appropriate.

Personalized Care

Tailored reconstruction plans guided by a multidisciplinary team.

Continuum of Care

At Apollo Athenaa, our teams remain involved at every stage, ensuring that recovery is not only physical, but also emotional and empowering. Each woman is supported through.

Post-operative guidance on wound care, drain management, scar care, and safe return to physical activity.

Rehabilitation support, including physiotherapy to restore shoulder mobility, posture, and core strength, along with nutritional guidance.

Emotional and psychological care, offering counselling to address body image concerns and overall mental wellbeing.

Long-term follow-up and survivorship planning, with regular assessments to monitor reconstruction health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is breast reconstruction after mastectomy?

01

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to rebuild the shape of the breast after mastectomy, using either implants or the patient’s own tissue.

Is reconstruction safe during cancer surgery?

02

Yes. When planned appropriately, breast reconstruction does not compromise cancer treatment or outcomes. All decisions are made in close coordination with the oncology team and the reconstruction team.

Should I choose immediate or delayed reconstruction?

03

Both are safe options. Immediate reconstruction is usually preferred, while delayed reconstruction is recommended when radiation therapy or other medical factors make waiting safer.

Will reconstructed breasts look and feel natural?

04

Modern reconstructive techniques allow for natural-looking results. Tissue-based reconstruction often feels more natural, while implants offer reliable shape and symmetry.

Will I need more than one surgery?

05

Some reconstructions, especially implant-based ones, may involve staged procedures. Your surgeon will explain the expected surgical plan clearly.

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