Breast reconstruction following mastectomy.

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy can avoid a permanent deformity. As a member of the breast management team, the reconstructive surgeon can give advice on timing and techniques. Breast reconstruction can either be started at the time of the mastectomy or delayed for months or years. Newer techniques of tissue expansion permit breast reconstruction without additional scars or significant hospitalization. Autogenous tissue breast reconstruction techniques are available that provide natural, long-lasting breast reconstruction without the need for a silicone breast implant.