Breast Reconstruction

Restoring Confidence After Breast Cancer Surgery

Breast reconstruction is a specialised area of plastic and reconstructive surgery that aims to restore the shape, appearance and symmetry of the breast following mastectomy, breast-conserving surgery or congenital breast differences.

For many women, reconstruction is an important part of their recovery after breast cancer treatment. Reconstruction is a personal choice, and there is no single approach that is right for everyone. Dr Namal Munasinghe works closely with each patient and their breast surgeon to develop an individualised treatment plan based on their diagnosis, cancer treatment, body shape, lifestyle and personal preferences.

When Can Breast Reconstruction Be Performed?

Breast reconstruction may be performed:

• Immediate reconstruction – at the same time as mastectomy.

• Delayed reconstruction – months or years after cancer treatment has been completed.

The most appropriate timing depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, planned radiotherapy or chemotherapy, overall health and patient preference.

Types of Breast Reconstruction

Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

Implant reconstruction restores breast volume using a silicone breast implant. Depending on the individual situation, reconstruction may be performed in a single stage (direct-to-implant) or as a staged procedure using a temporary tissue expander before placement of the permanent implant.

Implant reconstruction may be suitable for women who:

• Prefer a shorter operation

• Have adequate skin following mastectomy

• Prefer not to use tissue from another part of the body

• Are appropriate candidates following discussion with their breast and plastic surgeon

Advantages

• Shorter surgery

• Faster initial recovery

• No donor site scar

• Reliable restoration of breast volume

Considerations

Potential risks include:

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Delayed wound healing

• Capsular contracture

• Implant rupture or failure

• Implant malposition

• Implant visibility or rippling

• Need for future revision surgery

• Changes following radiotherapy

Autologous (Own Tissue) Breast Reconstruction

Autologous reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue to recreate the breast. This often provides a soft, natural-feeling breast and avoids the need for a permanent implant.

Dr Namal performs microsurgical breast reconstruction using modern techniques tailored to each patient's anatomy and reconstructive goals.

Common reconstructive options include:

DIEP Flap

The Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap uses skin and fat from the lower abdomen while preserving the abdominal muscles. It is considered the preferred option for many suitable patients because it provides natural tissue with less donor-site weakness than older techniques.

Muscle-Sparing TRAM Flap

In selected patients, a muscle-sparing TRAM flap may be appropriate. This uses abdominal tissue with preservation of most of the abdominal muscle.

Latissimus Dorsi Flap

This technique transfers skin, fat and muscle from the upper back to reconstruct the breast and may be combined with an implant when additional volume is required.

Other reconstructive techniques may be recommended depending on your anatomy and previous treatments.

Advantages

• Uses your own tissue

• Natural appearance and feel

• No permanent implant

• Long-lasting reconstruction

• Ages naturally with your body

Considerations

Autologous reconstruction is a longer and more complex operation with a longer recovery period. It also involves surgery at the donor site, such as the abdomen or back.

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Delayed wound healing

• Partial or complete flap loss

• Fat necrosis

• Donor site complications

• Abdominal weakness or hernia (depending on technique)

• Need for additional revision procedures

Additional Procedures

Breast reconstruction may also include:

• Nipple reconstruction

• Fat grafting (fat transfer)

• Symmetry surgery on the opposite breast

• Implant exchange or revision surgery

These procedures are often performed after the initial reconstruction to improve breast symmetry and overall appearance.

Your Consultation

Choosing breast reconstruction is a significant decision. During your consultation, Dr Namal Munasinghe will discuss:

• Your breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan

• Your reconstructive goals

• Implant-based and autologous reconstruction options

• The benefits and limitations of each technique

• Expected recovery

• Potential risks and complications

• The likely need for staged procedures

Every reconstruction is tailored to the individual patient, with the aim of achieving a result that is appropriate for your body, lifestyle and long-term wellbeing.

Why Choose Dr Namal Munasinghe?

Dr Namal Munasinghe is an Australian-trained Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive experience in breast reconstruction. He works closely with breast surgeons, oncologists and other members of the multidisciplinary team to provide personalised, evidence-based care for women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

He understands that breast reconstruction is about more than restoring breast shape—it is about supporting women throughout their recovery with compassion, clear communication and individualised surgical care