Breast Reconstruction
Restoring form, confidence and wellbeing after mastectomy.
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is one of the most complex and rewarding areas of Mr Sarakbi’s practice. He offers immediate and delayed reconstruction using implant-based and autologous (own tissue) techniques. The goal is always to restore a breast that looks and feels as natural as possible — and to help patients feel whole again.
Mr Will Sarakbi — Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon View reconstruction results →Reconstruction after breast cancer surgery
Breast reconstruction restores the shape of the breast after mastectomy. It is an integral part of the treatment plan for many women with breast cancer, and the decision about whether and how to reconstruct is a deeply personal one that Mr Sarakbi will guide you through with care.
As an oncoplastic specialist, Mr Sarakbi plans reconstruction as part of the overall cancer treatment from the outset — not as an afterthought. This ensures the best possible cosmetic result alongside the best cancer outcome.
Immediate Reconstruction
Immediate reconstruction is performed at the same operation as the mastectomy. It avoids the experience of waking without a breast and typically gives the best cosmetic outcome. In suitable patients, skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy allows the natural breast skin — and sometimes the nipple — to be preserved, creating a more natural result.
Immediate reconstruction is appropriate for most patients having mastectomy, though it may not be recommended if post-operative radiotherapy is planned, as this can affect the reconstructed breast.
Delayed Reconstruction
Delayed reconstruction is performed weeks or months after the mastectomy, once all cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy) have been completed. While it requires a separate operation, it can achieve excellent results and may be the preferred approach in certain clinical situations.
Implant-Based Reconstruction
A breast implant is the most commonly used reconstruction method. A tissue expander may be placed initially and gradually expanded over several months, before being exchanged for a permanent implant. Alternatively, an implant may be placed directly at the time of mastectomy (direct-to-implant reconstruction).
Biological mesh or synthetic mesh (such as ADM — acellular dermal matrix) is often used to support the implant and provide a more natural shape.
Autologous (Own-Tissue) Reconstruction
Autologous reconstruction uses tissue taken from elsewhere in the body — most commonly the abdomen (DIEP flap or TRAM flap) or the back (latissimus dorsi flap). The result feels more natural and ages more naturally than an implant, though the surgery is more complex.
Mr Sarakbi will discuss which approach is most suitable for you at your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Breast reconstruction is surgery to rebuild the shape of the breast after mastectomy. It can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy (immediate) or at a later date (delayed), and uses either an implant or your own tissue.
Reconstruction does not affect the efficacy of cancer treatment. However, if post-operative radiotherapy is planned, this may influence the timing and type of reconstruction recommended. Mr Sarakbi plans reconstruction alongside your oncology team to ensure the best overall outcome.
Recovery varies depending on the type of reconstruction. Implant-based reconstruction typically requires 2–4 weeks before returning to desk work, and 6–8 weeks to more strenuous activities. Autologous reconstruction has a longer recovery of 6–8 weeks. Mr Sarakbi will advise you on what to expect.
Yes — breast reconstruction following mastectomy for cancer is available on the NHS. Mr Sarakbi is Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon at Croydon University Hospital and offers reconstruction in both NHS and private settings.
About Breast Reconstruction
Mr Sarakbi explains what you need to know — in his own words.
Discuss reconstruction options
Book a consultation with Mr Sarakbi at Cadogan Clinic, Chelsea or Shirley Oaks Hospital, Surrey.