Overview

Breast reconstruction is a procedure available to women who have lost a breast to cancer or women at high risk for breast cancer who want to take a preventative measure against the disease. Through breast reconstruction, a new breast, very similar to a natural breast in form and appearance, is created as a replacement for the original. Breast reconstruction can be performed immediately after mastectomy or as a separate surgery.

Breast reconstruction is a two-step procedure. The first step is to reconstruct the breast mound to the proper size and shape. One method for doing this uses the patient's own abdominal tissues (the Transverse Rectus Abdominus Myocutaneous Flap method or TRAM for short) which many patients are satisfied with upon completion due to the 'tummy tuck' effect. Another method uses an implant filled with silicone or saline. Once the breast mound has been created, the nipple-areolar complex is made, using local flaps of skin and medical tattooing to create the desired color.

Once the new breast has been reconstructed, the opposite breast may need to be lifted or reduced or augmented in order to achieve symmetry.

At Hunter Plastic Surgery, we work in conjunction with breast cancer surgeons as a team to obtain the best possible results for your reconstruction.

Expected out of pocket costs:
Implants (1 breast)- Privately Insured - $8,500 (check with your insurer), No Insurance - $25,000 (two surgeries)
TRAM (1 breast)- Privately Insured - $9,000 (check with your insurer), No Insurance - $19,000.
These prices include the surgeon's fee, anaesthetist's fee, hospital stay and garment. You may also be eligible for the Government's modest tax rebate on medical expenses in your annual tax return.
Procedure: Performed under General Anaesthetic in hospital
Hospital Stay: Implant - 5-7 days stage 1 , 1-2 days stage 2, TRAM or back flap - 7-10 days
Recovery: Implant: 6 weeks, TRAM or back flap - 6-12 weeks
Garment for 6 weeks and bruising and swelling for two weeks
Medicare Rebate: Yes

For more information on breast reconstruction, please visit link to the the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeon's website below. You may also wish to view the narrated 3D Animation of the implant method at the end of the page. You can also print a copy of the procedure summary while in the animation menu.

Call us on 4920 7700 to make an appointment.

Related Pictures

Related Links

ASPS website - Breast reconstruction

View 3D Animation