Immediate vs. Delayed breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction can be performed at the time of mastectomy (Immediate) or weeks, months or even years later (Delayed). There are differing views about the optimum timing for a breast reconstruction - many prefer to undertake it at the same time as the initial breast cancer surgery, whilst others believe it's important to wait some time before making any decisions.

For anyone considering breast reconstruction, you should mention this upfront, in order to recieve the appropriate consultation. 

Advantages of immediate breast reconstruction

There are many advantages to immediate breast reconstruction. One of the main ones being that the patient doesn't have to wake up from surgery to see a large scar across their chest in place of the original breast. Some women certainly find that having reconstruction at the same time as their initial surgery, helps them to cope better emotionally. Furthermore, immediate breast reconstruction requires one main operation and therefore, one recovery period.

How quickly do I have to make a decision?

Once a cancer diagnosis is made and the decision of mastectomy is taken, all efforts are made to treat the patient as quickly as possible. When choosing an immediate breast reconstruction, there may possibly be a short wait for your surgery, as two teams of surgeons could be involved (cancer and plastic) and need to be lined-up. Therefore the earlier a decision can be made, the better. The Didyma Foundation website hopes to be able to aid clarification and make evaluation and decisions easier.

Is immediate breast reconstruction possible, if radiotherapy is part of my treatment programme?

Yes, it is possible. But ideally, autologous tissue (your own tissue) should be chosen as the reconstruction option in this circumstance. Implant-based reconstruction may lead to a higher rate of capsular contracture, with scar tissue forming post radiotherapy.