For many women, implant reconstruction produces satisfactory results and avoids major surgery, additional scars and longer recovery period associated with flap reconstruction techniques. Implants tend to sit higher on the chest and for this reason they are more suited to women with small to moderate sized breasts. It is more difficult to achieve a natural looking breast, but in clothing reasonably good results can be achieved. A breast reduction or lift of the contralateral breast can improve symmetry if necessary. If you need bilateral breast reconstruction, implants are often a good option as a nice symmetrical reconstruction can be achieved.
Implant reconstruction can be performed at the time of mastectomy or as a delayed procedure using an expander implant. Implants can be placed under the pectoralis major muscle or under the breast skin. Often a biological mesh is used to cover the lower part of the implant.
Revision surgery is more common in implant reconstructions compared to flap techniques. Radiotherapy can have an effect on implant reconstructions resulting in tightness and loss of shape of shape over time. If an implant reconstruction deteriorated, it is still possible to convert to a flap breast reconstruction down the line.
