Immediate Breast Reconstruction 

Immediate Breast Reconstruction

Immediate reconstruction is breast restoration performed during the same operation as mastectomy. A woman does not go through a separate stage of “life after mastectomy.” This is a fundamentally different psychological experience, and for many patients it is even more important than the surgical details.

Immediate reconstruction is performed jointly by an oncologist and a plastic surgeon. At Iskusstvo Clinic in Moscow, this collaboration is possible both with the clinic’s own specialists and with oncologists invited from other medical institutions.

Methods of Immediate Reconstruction

Implant-Based Reconstruction

In skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy, the preserved skin is used as a pocket for the implant. Implant placement may be performed in one stage or in two stages, with an expander followed by replacement. This is the most commonly used method.

→ More information: Implant-Based Reconstruction

Microsurgical Reconstruction with a DIEP Flap

Two teams work in parallel: the oncologist performs the mastectomy, while the surgeon harvests the DIEP flap. This is the longest option for immediate reconstruction, but it eliminates the need for a second major operation.

→ More information: Microsurgical Reconstruction with a DIEP Flap, Immediate Reconstruction

Oncoplastic Resection with Immediate Mastopexy

This method is used in breast-conserving surgery. Tumor removal is combined with tissue redistribution and breast lifting. The result is that the tumor is removed, while the breast is preserved and has a good shape.

→ More information: Oncoplastic Breast Resection with Immediate Mastopexy

Who Is Immediate Reconstruction Suitable For?

The main conditions are: no need for radiation therapy to the chest wall before reconstruction, no extensive local tumor spread, and a general health condition that allows the patient to tolerate a long operation.

Specific indications are discussed with the oncologist.

Rehabilitation

After implant-based reconstruction, hospitalization usually lasts 3–5 days, with return to normal life in 3–4 weeks.

After DIEP reconstruction, hospitalization usually lasts 7–10 days, with recovery taking 6–8 weeks.

Follow-up by the oncologist and surgeon is carried out in parallel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do All Oncologists Agree with Immediate Reconstruction?

Most modern oncologists support immediate reconstruction when the indications are appropriate, as it does not affect oncological outcomes. If the oncologist objects, it is worth clarifying the reason.

Can the Nipple Be Preserved During Mastectomy?

Yes, with nipple-sparing mastectomy, or NSM, if the tumor does not invade the nipple tissue. The final decision is made by the oncologist based on MRI and biopsy results.

How Long Does the Operation Take?

With implant-based reconstruction, the total duration is usually 2–3 hours.

With DIEP reconstruction, the procedure takes 7–10 hours, with two teams working in parallel. The anesthesiologist assesses tolerability before surgery.

Book a Consultation

Book a consultation. The surgeon, together with the oncologist, will assess whether immediate reconstruction is possible.