Breast reconstruction is now a common surgical procedure performed either at the time of mastectomy or as a delayed procedure following treatment for breast cancer.

Psychologically this is an enormous boost to the patient as it removes the feeling of devastation sometimes associated with mastectomy.

Breast reconstruction may be performed following lumpectomy or more commonly following mastectomy. If post-operative radiotherapy is indicated delayed breast reconstruction is more appropriate.

Mr Barnett's preferred method of reconstruction is to use autologous tissue (patients own tissue excess) for reconstruction. This may involve taking lower abdominal tissue or excess back tissue to reconstruct the breasts.
(See the additional information about Natural Tissue Breast Reconstruction Surgery).

Other techniques used for breast reconstruction include tissue expansion using conventional techniques or the Becker expander – prosthesis.

In some patients breast prostheses may be inserted at the time of mastectomy.

An Example of Breast Reconstruction is shown below.

Photo gallery

Patient 1: Multiple Breast Reconstructions - Left & Right Breast Reconstruction following mastectomies

Actual patient of Mr Geoffrey Barnett is shown above. Patient images used with permission.