breast reconstruction
(breast reconstruction)
Dr. med. Thomas Biesgen
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery in Zurich.
The decision for breast reconstruction
Women who have surgery as part of their breast cancer treatment may choose to have breast reconstruction surgery to restore the shape and appearance of the breast. There are several different types of breast reconstruction. Learn about all of your options and what to expect before and after surgery.
Many women choose to have reconstructive surgery, but it may not be right for everyone. Learn about the pros and cons of breast reconstruction, as well as other options.
Dr. Biesgen will inform you fully about the procedure, possible complications and feasibility during the consultation.
Brief information on breast reconstruction
- General anesthesia
- depending on the procedure, several hours
Depending on the procedure, 3–4 nights
Remove stitches after approx. 1 week
1-2 weeks
- Light exercise (walking or cycling) after about 4 weeks,
- Sports (tennis, swimming, jogging) and household chores (e.g. ironing and window cleaning) after 6–8 weeks,
- With own tissue after 10 weeks
After 4-6 months
up to 10 years
During our consultation, I can show you various surgical results (before and after pictures).
candidates for breast reconstruction surgery
A woman who has had surgery to treat breast cancer may choose to have additional surgery to restore the shape and appearance of her breast. This is called breast reconstruction surgery.
If you are thinking about having this done, it is best to talk to your surgeon and a plastic surgeon with experience in breast reconstruction before having the tumor or breast surgically removed. This will allow the surgical teams to plan the best treatment for you, even if you decide to wait and have reconstructive surgery later.
Reasons for breast reconstruction
A woman may choose to undergo breast reconstruction for many reasons:
- To make her breast look balanced when she wears a bra or swimsuit
- So that the clothes fit better
- So that she can regain her breast shape permanently
- So that she does not have to use a breast form that fits in the bra (an external prosthesis)
- So that she feels better in her body
Breast reconstruction often leaves scars, but these usually fade with time. Newer techniques have also reduced the amount of scarring. When wearing a bra, your breasts should be similar enough in size and shape that you feel comfortable in most clothing.
After a mastectomy, breast reconstruction can make you feel better and restore your confidence. However, keep in mind that the reconstructed breast cannot perfectly match or replace your natural breast.
If tissue from the abdomen, back or buttocks was used in the reconstruction, these areas will also look different after surgery.
Talk to your surgeon about scars and changes in shape or contour. Ask where they will be and how they will look and feel after they heal.
Risks of Breast Reconstruction
For common potential side effects and risks of reconstruction surgery, see What to Expect After Breast Reconstruction Surgery. Certain types of breast implants may be linked to a rare type of cancer known as anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), which is not a type of breast cancer.
It is sometimes called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This lymphoma develops about 8 to 10 years after the implant is inserted and is more common when the implants have textured (rough) surfaces rather than smooth ones.
When ALCL occurs after an implant, it may present as a collection of fluid near the implant, a lump, pain, swelling, or asymmetry (unequal breasts).
Early stage disease is often treated by surgical removal of the implant and capsule, while advanced disease requires chemotherapy. In certain cases, radiation may be used.
The prognosis (outcome) is usually better in women with an early stage of the disease.
Options for Breast Reconstruction
There are many different options and types of breast reconstruction procedures. Some are performed (or started) at the same time as the mastectomy, while others are done later. Learn more about your options.
Women who have had surgery to treat breast cancer can choose from several different types of breast reconstruction. When deciding which type is best for you, you and your doctors should discuss factors such as your medical history and personal preferences.
Take the time to learn about what options are available to you and consider talking to others who have undergone this procedure before making a decision.
More articles on preparing for breast reconstruction
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read moreSelection of the optimal method for breast reconstruction
If you have decided to have breast reconstruction, there are still many things to think about while you and your doctors discuss...
read moreBreast reconstruction procedure
There are several different types of reconstructive surgery, and sometimes the process involves more than one surgery. Give yourself plenty of time to make the best decision for you. You should not make your decision about breast reconstruction until you are fully informed.
For information about procedures to reconstruct the shape of your breast or breasts, please see the following pages:
- breast reconstruction with implants
- Breast reconstruction with the body's own tissue (flap procedure)
- Reconstruction of the nipple and areola after breast surgery
Sometimes the implant and flap procedures are used in combination to reconstruct a breast.
Additionally, nipple/areola tattooing and fat grafting may be performed to make the reconstructed breast more similar to the original breast.
cost of breast reconstruction
Health insurance companies generally cover the costs of reconstructive breast procedures. As several steps are often required to restore the breast, the exact cost coverage must be clarified in detail with the insurance company.
The cost of breast reconstruction can vary depending on the extent of the procedure. The exact procedure and cost will be discussed and defined in detail with the patient during the consultation.
The cost includes the consultation, use of the operating room, surgical team and materials, anesthesia, implant, as well as the fee for the procedure and aftercare. The cost is to be understood as a flat rate per case and must be paid in advance.
Questions and answers about aesthetic breast treatment
Arrange your appointment with Dr. Biesgen
Book your appointment for an initial consultation or a follow-up online. If no suitable appointment is available, please contact us by phone or email.
Discuss questions in the video meeting
Video consultation appointment (approx. 20-30 minutes, approx. CHF 100).
Arrange a consultation
Arrange your appointment at the practice in Zurich (approx. 45 minutes, tariff structure TARMED, approx. CHF 180-200).
Offsetting consulting costs
The consultation costs are credited in the event of an intervention within six months of the consultation.
Non-appearance dates
A fee of CHF 150 will be charged for unexcused absences from agreed appointments.
