Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Melbourne
Breast reconstruction surgery is a plastic surgery procedure designed to restore the shape, size, and appearance of the breast following mastectomy or significant breast tissue loss.
At Specialist Surgical Group, our Melbourne-based plastic surgeons perform breast reconstruction surgery on patients who have undergone mastectomy due to breast cancer, experienced significant trauma, or have congenital breast conditions.
We utilise advanced surgical techniques, including tissue expander placement, implant-based reconstruction, and autologous tissue transfer, to recreate natural breast contours and restore symmetry.
This comprehensive procedure not only restores physical appearance but also supports emotional healing and body confidence, often significantly improving quality of life.
We consult from our Essendon and Bundoora clinics, with procedures performed at accredited hospitals in Melbourne.
Call us today at (03) 9466 7338 to book a consultation.
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Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
We are located in the heart of Essendon and Bundoora.
Is a breast reconstruction for you?
Breast reconstruction surgery may be appropriate for you if:
- You have undergone a mastectomy due to breast cancer or genetic predisposition
- You have experienced significant breast tissue loss due to trauma or infection
- You have congenital breast conditions affecting breast development
- You are in good overall health and cleared for surgery by your oncologist (if applicable)
During your initial consultation, we will assess your health history, discuss your reconstruction goals, examine your chest wall and remaining breast tissue, and determine if breast reconstruction surgery suits your circumstances and timeline.
Potential benefits
- Restored breast shape and symmetry. Modern reconstruction techniques can achieve natural-looking results that closely match your remaining breast or desired breast size, with satisfaction rates exceeding 85% [1].
- Improved body image and self-confidence. Patients typically report enhanced self-esteem and reduced anxiety about their appearance, which contribute to better overall mental health outcomes [2].
- Clothing and lifestyle flexibility. Reconstruction eliminates the need for external prostheses, allowing greater freedom in clothing choices and physical activities without concern about prosthetic displacement [3].
- Long-term durability. Both implant-based and autologous tissue reconstructions can provide lasting results, with proper maintenance and follow-up care ensuring the longevity of outcomes [4].
- Psychological healing support. The restoration process often helps patients feel more complete and aids in the emotional recovery from cancer treatment, reducing feelings of loss and disfigurement [5].
- Timing flexibility options. Reconstruction can be performed immediately during mastectomy or delayed, allowing patients to focus on cancer treatment first, if preferred, with comparable outcomes [6].
- Nipple and areola restoration possibilities. Advanced techniques enable the reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex, thereby completing the aesthetic restoration process [7].
Potential risks
- Surgical complications. Including infection, bleeding, or poor wound healing, which may require additional treatment or revision surgery [8].
- Implant-related complications. Such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or malposition, which may require implant replacement [9].
- Tissue flap complications. For autologous reconstructions, risks include partial or complete flap loss, donor site complications, or asymmetry.
- Need for additional procedures. Many patients require 2-3 surgeries to achieve optimal results, including potential revision surgeries for symmetry or complications [10].
- Changes in sensation. Permanent numbness or altered sensation in the reconstructed breast and donor sites (if applicable) is common and should be expected [11].
- Potential for aesthetic revision. Some patients may desire adjustments to size, shape, or symmetry, requiring additional procedures to achieve desired outcomes [12].
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Meet our breast surgeons
Your breast reconstruction journey
Here’s a general overview of our breast reconstruction surgery procedure. Individual experiences may vary based on your specific circumstances, chosen reconstruction method, and medical needs.
1. Initial assessment
We’ll discuss your goals and examine your situation during your first visit. Our surgeons will explain different reconstruction options that suit your needs.
You’ll have time to ask questions and understand what each approach involves. We’ll work together to create a plan that feels right for you.
2. Planning & preparation
Once you decide to proceed, we’ll prepare you thoroughly for surgery. We’ll coordinate with your other doctors and provide clear instructions for the weeks ahead.
You’ll receive guidance on medications, lifestyle adjustments, and what to expect. Our team ensures you feel confident and ready.
3. Surgery day
Your surgery will take place in our accredited hospital in Melbourne, where experienced staff will care for you.
The procedure typically takes several hours, during which you’ll be comfortably under anaesthesia. Our surgeons use proven techniques tailored to your reconstruction plan. You’ll wake up in our recovery area with nursing support.
4. Hospital recovery
You’ll stay in the hospital for a few days while we monitor your healing progress. Our nursing team will help manage your comfort and guide you through gentle movement.
We’ll teach you proper wound care and what signs to watch for. Most patients feel ready to go home within 2-3 days.
5. Recovery at home
Your healing continues at home with our ongoing support and regular check-ups. We’ll see you frequently in the first weeks to ensure everything is progressing well.
You’ll gradually increase your activities as your body heals and you feel stronger. Our team is always available to answer questions or address concerns.
6. Follow-up care
We’ll continue to support you throughout the entire healing process over several months.
Follow-up appointments enable us to monitor your results and make any necessary adjustments. Many patients require additional procedures to achieve their final desired outcome.
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Breast reconstruction surgery FAQ
Both immediate and delayed reconstruction have advantages. Immediate reconstruction means fewer surgeries overall, and you wake up with your breast shape restored. Delayed reconstruction allows you to focus on cancer treatment first and gives you more time to consider options. Studies show similar outcomes for both approaches, so the choice depends on your treatment plan and personal preferences [6].
Most patients experience moderate discomfort during the first week, which is well managed with pain medication. Pain levels vary depending on the reconstruction type: implant-based reconstructions typically involve less discomfort than tissue flap procedures. By two weeks, most patients only need over-the-counter pain relief, and significant pain usually resolves within 3-4 weeks [14].
Modern reconstruction techniques yield highly natural-looking results, with over 85% of patients reporting satisfaction with their appearance [1]. Implant reconstruction creates good shape and volume, while tissue flap reconstruction often feels more natural to touch. The reconstructed breast won’t have the same sensation as your original breast, but its appearance can be remarkably similar, especially with nipple reconstruction [12].
Initial recovery typically takes 2-3 weeks, during which you’ll have activity restrictions and may require assistance with daily tasks. Most patients return to desk work within 2-3 weeks and resume normal activities by 6-8 weeks. Complete healing and final results take 3-6 months. If you need multiple surgeries, each procedure requires additional recovery time [11].
Breast reconstruction doesn’t interfere with cancer surveillance or mammography. Reconstructed breasts can be examined during routine check-ups, and imaging techniques can effectively monitor for cancer recurrence. Your oncologist and surgeon will coordinate your follow-up care to ensure comprehensive monitoring [15].
The two main approaches are implant-based reconstruction and autologous tissue reconstruction. Implant reconstruction uses silicone or saline implants, often with tissue expanders first. Autologous reconstruction utilises your tissue, typically sourced from the abdomen, back, or thigh. Your surgeon will recommend the best option based on your body type, lifestyle, and the type of cancer treatment you are undergoing [4].
Most patients require 2-3 surgeries to achieve final results. The first surgery creates the basic breast shape, followed by adjustments for symmetry and nipple reconstruction if desired. Some patients choose additional procedures to refine results or match changes in their other breasts over time [11].
In Australia, breast reconstruction following cancer treatment is typically covered by Medicare and private health insurance. Coverage varies depending on your policy and the type of reconstruction you choose. Our team works with insurance providers to help maximise your coverage and will discuss costs during your consultation [16].
Medical disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Individual circumstances vary significantly, and nothing on this page should be used as a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified medical professional.
If you have concerns about your health, please seek medical attention promptly. To discuss your specific condition and treatment options with our team, please book a consultation by calling us at (03) 9466 7338.
References
[1] Pusic AL, Matros E, Fine N, et al. Patient-Reported Outcomes 1 Year After Immediate Breast Reconstruction: Results of the Mastectomy Reconstruction Outcomes Consortium Study. J Clin Oncol. 2017;35(22):2499-2506. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.2016.69.9561
[2] Santosa KB, Qi J, Kim HM, et al. Effect of Patient Age on Outcomes in Breast Reconstruction: Results from a Multicenter Prospective Study. J Am Coll Surg. 2016;223(6):745-757. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2016.09.003
[3] Albornoz CR, Bach PB, Mehrara BJ, et al. A paradigm shift in U.S. Breast reconstruction: increasing implant rates. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2013;131(1):15-23. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0b013e3182729cde
[4] Sbitany H, Piper M, Lentz R. Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction: A Safe Alternative to Submuscular Prosthetic Reconstruction following Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2017;140(3):432-443. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000003627
[5] Rowland JH, Desmond KA, Meyerowitz BE, et al. Role of breast reconstructive surgery in physical and emotional outcomes among breast cancer survivors. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2000;92(17):1422-1429. https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/92.17.1422
[6] Jagsi R, Jiang J, Momoh AO, et al. Complications After Mastectomy and Immediate Breast Reconstruction for Breast Cancer: A Claims-Based Analysis. Ann Surg. 2016;263(2):219-227. https://doi.org/10.1097/SLA.0000000000001177
[7] Gdalevitch P, Van Laeken N, Bahng S, et al. Effects of Nivolumab on Immediate Two-stage Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction: A Case-Control Study. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2020;145(3):557e-563e. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000006551
[8] Fischer JP, Wes AM, Nelson JA, et al. Propensity-matched, longitudinal outcomes analysis of complications and cost: comparing abdominal free flaps and implant-based breast reconstruction. J Am Coll Surg. 2014;219(2):303-312. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2014.02.028
[9] Spear SL, Murphy DK, Slicton A, Walker PS. Inamed silicone breast implant core study results at 6 years. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2007;120(7 Suppl 1):8S-16S. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.prs.0000286580.93214.df
[10] Atisha DM, Rushing CN, Samsa GP, et al. A national snapshot of satisfaction with breast cancer procedures. Ann Surg Oncol. 2015;22(2):361-369. https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-014-4246-9
[11] Djohan R, Deckard A, Shuck J, et al. Acellular dermal matrix in tissue expander breast reconstruction: a review of outcomes. Arch Plast Surg. 2016;43(6):547-554. https://doi.org/10.5999/aps.2016.43.6.547
[12] Bennett KG, Qi J, Kim HM, et al. Comparison of 2-Year Complication Rates Among Common Techniques for Postmastectomy Breast Reconstruction. JAMA Surg. 2018;153(10):901-908. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamasurg.2018.1677
[13] Bennett KG, Qi J, Kim HM, et al. Comparison of 2-Year Complication Rates Among Common Techniques for Postmastectomy Breast Reconstruction. JAMA Surg. 2018;153(10):901-908. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamasurg.2018.1677
[14] Macadam SA, Lennox PA, Pusic AL, et al. An Evidence-Based Approach to Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2017;139(3):629e-642e. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000003071
[15] Brennan ME, Spillane AJ. Uptake and predictors of post-mastectomy reconstruction in women with breast cancer. ANZ J Surg. 2013;83(4):267-271. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1445-2197.2012.06287.x
[16] Australian Government Department of Health. Medicare Benefits Schedule – Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2024. http://www.mbsonline.gov.au/internet/mbsonline/publishing.nsf/Content/Home