Breast reconstruction
Surgery to rebuild a new breast shape after a mastectomy
Breast construction is usually offered to women who've had part or all of their breast removed due to cancer
About breast reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is usually offered to all women who've had a lump, or one or both breasts removed due to breast cancer. The timing of the surgery depends on how early your breast cancer is detected and treated. It can either happen at the same time as your breast removal or a later date.
Need to know
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What happens icon plus
There are different types of breast reconstruction surgery. Your consultant will discuss your options with you and let you know the type of surgery that's best for you. This depends on the size of your breasts, how much tissue has been removed and your preference. The main options for reconstruction are: - silicone gel or saline implants - tissue expansion using an expander placed under the chest and inflated over time - using tissue from your back combined with an implant - using tissue transferred from your lower abdomen -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain how to prepare before your operation. This might depend on whether you have your surgery at the same time as a mastectomy or at a later time. If you're having general anaesthetic, your consultant will tell you how long you should avoid eating and drinking before the surgery. Make sure you tell your consultant about any medications you're taking. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
Afterwards icon plus
After surgery, you'll be cared for in hospital for three to seven days, depending on the type of reconstruction you have. You'll have some pain to begin with and will be given pain relief medication to help with this. You may need some help when you go home and it can take between six weeks and three months to recover. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine.
Paying for medical treatment
You don’t need health insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.
Our breast surgeons
We’re proud to work with leading experts in breast surgery and oncoplastic surgery, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Our consultants work as part of an multi-displinary team, including a clinical nurse specialist, breast radiologists and radiographers to ensure you are fully supported throughout your treatment.
Our consultants work as part of an multi-displinary team, including a clinical nurse specialist, breast radiologists and radiographers to ensure you are fully supported throughout your treatment.
Our breast surgery facilities
From initial diagnosis, through to screening and complex breast surgery, we provide exceptional breast care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Breast Unit at The Harley Street Clinic
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London. W1G 8BJ
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The Breast Unit at The Wellington Hospital
Platinum Medical Centre, The Breast Care Unit
15-17 Lodge Road
London NW8 7JA
Request an appointment
Our booking teams can help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.