Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women, with more than 20,000 women receiving a diagnosis each year. While advances in screening and treatment continue to improve outcomes, a diagnosis of breast cancer remains life-changing for patients and their families.

Treatment is tailored to each individual and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy or targeted treatments. For many women, surgery forms an important part of treatment and may involve either breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) or removal of the breast, known as a mastectomy.

For women who require a mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an option that may help restore breast shape and, for many, a sense of confidence and familiarity with their body. Reconstruction is a highly personal decision. Some women choose reconstruction immediately at the time of their cancer surgery, while others prefer to delay reconstruction until months or even years later. Others decide that reconstruction is not the right choice for them, and all of these decisions are equally valid.

Modern breast reconstruction offers a range of techniques, allowing treatment to be tailored to each woman's cancer treatment, body shape and personal goals.

Reconstruction may involve:

• Implant-based reconstruction, using a breast implant to recreate breast volume and shape.
• Autologous (flap) reconstruction, where tissue from another part of the body—most commonly the abdomen—is used to create a new breast.
• Hybrid reconstruction, combining implants with your own tissue to achieve the desired result.
• Refinement procedures, including fat grafting, surgery to improve breast symmetry and nipple-areola reconstruction, which may include specialised paramedical tattooing as the final stage of reconstruction.

Breast reconstruction is often performed over several stages rather than as a single operation. Your treatment plan will depend on factors such as the type of cancer, the need for radiotherapy, previous treatments, your general health and your personal preferences.

If you would like to learn more about the different reconstructive options available, we invite you to explore our dedicated pages on implant-based breast reconstruction, DIEP flap reconstruction, fat grafting, and nipple-areola reconstruction.

If you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, or are considering delayed breast reconstruction following previous treatment, we would be pleased to discuss your options with you. We welcome referrals from breast surgeons, oncologists, general practitioners and patients seeking a second opinion.