Breast reconstruction using implants

You may decide you want breast reconstructive surgery following a single or double mastectomy. One option is breast reconstruction using implants. It is the simplest reconstruction surgery to create a new shape for your breast or breasts.

It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of implant breast reconstruction with your doctor(s). If you can, do this before your breast cancer surgery because reconstruction can happen during a mastectomy operation (‘immediate reconstruction’) or at a later time ('delayed reconstruction’).

Types of breast implant

The outside of a breast implant is usually made of silicone. The surface may be rough (textured) or smooth.

Inside, the implant is filled with salt water or silicone gel.

Silicon-gel implants are the most common type because they usually have a more natural look and feel.

Saline-filled implants are less likely to hold their shape. It is easier to feel the folds of a saline implant through the skin than a silicone implant.

Implants come in several different shapes including round and ‘tear drop’.

When breast implant reconstruction is suitable

Implants may be the preferred option for people who: 

• are slim and do not have enough tissue available (e.g. tummy) for a tissue flap ('autologous') reconstruction
• want a simpler operation with less scarring
• have existing health conditions (‘co-morbidities’) and may not be able to tolerate a long surgery.

Advantages of breast implants

Compared to a tissue flap (autologous) reconstruction, the advantages of breast implants are:

• the operation is shorter and simpler
• you have less scarring, as surgery is generally only in the breast area
• you do not have to stay in hospital as long
• recovery time is quicker
• the surgery is cheaper than other types of reconstruction. 

Disadvantages of breast implants

The disadvantages include: 

• an implant may feel less natural than using your own tissue and may be firmer, heavier and colder to touch
• it can be harder to match the shape of the existing breast
• the implant may have less natural movement or too much movement (animation/twitching)
• as you age, the breast will not droop like your natural breast tissue 
• if you lose or gain weight, the implant may no longer match your other breast
• you may need further surgery years later to change the implant or ‘revise the reconstruction’.