The mastectomy defect. A philosophy of reconstruction.

The armamentarium of the reconstructive breast surgeon has greatly expanded in recent years. The current techniques of reconstruction range from the use of a silicone breast implant with local tissue to the recruitment of large quantities of distant soft tissue. Each technique and its relative indications, advantages, and disadvantages are reviewed. The concept of individualized selection of breast reconstruction technique is emphasized, keeping in mind the well-informed patients' wishes and needs.