What Breast Reconstruction Can Achieve
Breast reconstruction aims to restore the shape, volume and symmetry of the breast following breast cancer treatment or risk-reducing surgery. Modern reconstructive techniques allow reconstruction using breast implants, your own tissue or a combination of both.
The selected surgical technique depends on your anatomy, cancer treatment and personal preferences. A series of procedures may be required and, in some cases, surgery to the opposite breast may be recommended to optimise symmetry and overall balance.
Your Reconstructive Journey
Your reconstructive journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. Reconstruction may be performed at the time of breast cancer or risk-reducing surgery or as a delayed procedure depending on your treatment plan.
A range of techniques may be considered, including implant-based reconstruction, a latissimus dorsi (LD) flap reconstruction which may be combined with an implant or fat grafting or abdominal-based reconstruction with a DIEP flap.
These decisions are made collaboratively, with a strong focus on safety, symmetry, longevity and proportionate results.
Recovery and Aftercare
For the first two weeks after surgery, you should avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height to minimise strain on healing incisions. Recovery time varies depending on the type of reconstruction performed.
Patients undergoing implant-based reconstruction typically return to work after three to four weeks, noting that staged procedures may involve different recovery periods.
Those undergoing flap-based reconstruction may require around six weeks away from work. Dr Collins and the team at The Surgery will provide detailed post-operative instructions and ongoing support throughout your recovery.
Is Breast Reconstruction Right for You?
The decision to undergo breast reconstruction is a very personal one. A consultation with Dr Collins allows for an individualised assessment and discussion of the reconstructive options most appropriate for you.
Together, you can formulate a management plan that prioritises restoring body confidence and wellbeing following breast cancer or risk-reducing surgery.
Breast Reconstruction in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
DrCollins offers a comprehensive range of breast reconstruction options, including implant-based reconstruction, abdominal-based DIEP flap reconstruction, and latissimus dorsi (LD) flap reconstruction, with implants or fat grafting where appropriate. The most suitable approach is tailored to your individual circumstances, anatomy, and cancer treatment.
In some instances, breast reconstruction can be performed at the same time as breast cancer or risk-reducing surgery (immediate reconstruction). In other situations, delayed reconstruction may be recommended, particularly if radiotherapy is required. Dr Collins adopts a collaborative approach, with a strong focus on safety and achieving the best possible outcome.
Implant-based reconstruction uses a silicone breast implant to restore breast shape and volume. It may be performed in one stage or, more commonly, in two stages using a temporary tissue expander that is later replaced with a permanent implant. Recovery time varies depending on the stage of reconstruction.
A tissue expander is a temporary implant that is gradually filled with saline to stretch the skin and soft tissues. The expansion process generally begins around six weeks post-operatively at The Surgery and continues on a fortnightly basis until the desired volume is achieved. The tissues are then allowed to settle over a three-month period, after which the expander is exchanged for a permanent silicone implant.
This staged approach reduces stress on the mastectomy skin, allows more precise control over breast size and shape, and provides an opportunity to refine symmetry during the second stage of your reconstruction.
Silicone implants are used in breast reconstruction. Modern implant designs, including round implants with responsive, adaptive gel, hold a round shape when lying down but form a natural-looking, sloped silhouette when standing. Implant size, shape, and placement are individualised and carefully planned with a focus on natural proportions and long-term results.
For more detailed information about implant types, sizing, and placement, please see our Breast Augmentation page.
Fat grafting involves transferring fat from another area of your body to the breast. In selected patients, it may be used to reconstruct smaller-volume breasts over a series of procedures. More commonly, fat grafting is used as an adjunct to improve shape and contour, soften implant edges, correct asymmetry, and add volume to a latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction.
A latissimus dorsi (LD) flap reconstruction uses muscle, skin, and fat from the back to reconstruct the breast. The tissue is transferred to the chest while maintaining its own blood supply and is commonly combined with an implant or fat grafting to achieve the desired breast shape and size. When fat grafting is used instead of an implant, more than one procedure is usually required.
Preparing well is an important part of your surgical journey and helps support the best possible outcome. During your consultation, Dr Collins will review your medical history, anatomy, goals, and expectations to determine the most appropriate reconstructive approach for you.
The best results are achieved when your weight has been stable and within a healthy range for approximately three months prior to surgery. Patients must be nicotine-free for at least six weeks before surgery, including smoking, vaping, and all nicotine replacement products, as nicotine significantly impairs wound healing.
In some cases, surgery to the opposite breast may be recommended to improve symmetry. This may involve a breast lift, reduction, or augmentation and will be discussed during your consultation as part of your personalised reconstructive plan.
Hospital stay depends on the type of reconstruction performed. Implant-based reconstruction generally involves a shorter admission, while flap-based reconstruction requires a longer stay for monitoring and recovery.
Allowing yourself time to heal is an important part of recovery. For the first two weeks after surgery, you should avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height to minimise strain on healing incisions. You will also be given specific instructions regarding garments, wound care, and activity modification based on the type of reconstruction performed.
Scarring depends on the type of reconstruction performed. In implant-based reconstruction, scarring is confined to the breast, whereas an LD flap reconstruction involves an additional scar on the back. Incisions are carefully planned with consideration given to both safety and aesthetic outcome. Scars are initially more noticeable but typically fade and soften over 12–18 months. Dr Collins’ scar management protocol supports optimal healing.
No. Dissolvable sutures are used.
This depends on the type of reconstruction and the physical demands of your role. Patients undergoing implant-based reconstruction often return to work after three to four weeks following the first stage and one to two weeks after the second stage. Flap-based reconstruction may require around six weeks away from work.
Driving is usually safe to resume after seven to ten days, provided you can comfortably turn the steering wheel, check blind spots, and perform an emergency stop without discomfort.
Gentle walking is encouraged early in recovery. More strenuous exercise and upper-body activity should be avoided for approximately six weeks to protect your surgical result. Dr Collins will provide a personalised return-to-exercise plan tailored to you.
Breast reconstruction is a well-established surgical procedure that may be performed using breast implants, flaps, fat grafting, or a combination of these techniques. Where implants are used, modern breast implants have an excellent safety profile supported by robust scientific data. As with all surgery, there are risks involved. These include pain, bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, adverse scarring, seroma, haematoma, asymmetry, implant-related complications, flap-related complications, and the potential need for revision surgery.
Rare conditions, including Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), will be discussed during your consultation. Dr Collins will take the time to explain all potential risks in detail and ensure you feel fully informed before making any decision about surgery.
No. Women with breast implants can still undergo effective breast cancer screening using mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. Radiographers use specialised techniques to image breast tissue safely and effectively.
Yes. Surgical outcomes vary between individuals and depend on factors such as anatomy, tissue quality, healing response, and adherence to post-operative care. Expected outcomes, risks, and limitations are discussed in detail during your consultation as part of the informed consent process.
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