Breast reconstruction following cancer treatment

After successfully overcoming breast cancer, many women face the emotional challenges associated with losing a breast. Breast reconstruction can help restore not only the shape and volume of the breast, but also a sense of wholeness and self-confidence. The choice of the most suitable method depends on the patient’s state of health, the type of cancer treatment and her aesthetic preferences.

Dr Lucie Zárubová specialises in breast reconstruction at our clinic and is one of the most sought-after breast reconstruction surgeons in the Czech Republic.

Breast reconstruction is preceded by a consultation with our doctors, to which you must bring documentation relating to your previous breast cancer treatment. The plastic surgeon will assess whether surgery is already possible, evaluate the initial condition and select the reconstruction method.

Reconstruction can take place either at the same time as the removal of breast tissue (immediate reconstruction) or several months to years after the completion of treatment (delayed reconstruction). Depending on the patient’s individual condition and the type of cancer treatment, we opt for reconstruction using a breast implant or the patient’s own tissue (for example, a flap from the abdomen or back). The procedure itself is carried out under general anaesthesia and takes several hours. Very often, following the initial reconstructive phase, it is also necessary to adjust the contralateral, healthy breast so that it matches the size and shape of the reconstructed breast.

Before breast reconstruction, a consultation with a plastic surgeon and an oncologist is required; they will assess the patient’s overall health, confirm that cancer treatment has been completed, and determine the suitability of the procedure. It is important to allow sufficient time to elapse since radiotherapy or chemotherapy, if the reconstruction was not carried out immediately.

The patient should be in good physical and mental health, with no acute medical conditions. A few days before the procedure, it is necessary to reduce or stop taking any medication that increases the risk of bleeding and to follow the doctor’s instructions. It is also advisable to prepare your home environment in advance for your recovery.

Breast reconstruction is a complex surgical procedure, and the recovery period depends on the type of operation, the extent of the procedure and the patient’s state of health. After the operation, the patient is monitored at the clinic for one day; she must then take antibiotics for one week and wear compression garments for 6–8 weeks.

Swelling, bruising or a temporary reduction in sensitivity may occur in the area of the operation. The return to normal activities varies from person to person, but is usually a matter of a few weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and the healing process. Reconstruction is often a multi-stage process – including adjustments to the shape of the breasts, the nipple and the symmetrisation of the other breast.

Breast reconstruction is a complex surgical procedure, and although complications are rare, it is important to bear in mind that there is a certain degree of risk. To minimise this risk, it is crucial to choose a qualified clinic and an experienced surgeon who will select the appropriate surgical technique. The outcome may be influenced in particular by:

• The patient’s state of health – obesity, diabetes, smoking or other cardiovascular or endocrine conditions may increase the risk of complications.
• The use of implants – capsular contracture, i.e. the formation of a hard capsule around the implant, may occur in some patients, particularly following radiotherapy.
• Infection and inflammation – strict adherence to post-operative care, antibiotic treatment and regular check-ups help to minimise the risk of infection.
• Reconstruction following previous radiotherapy.

We offer breast reconstruction following cancer treatment as a private service from 52,290 CZK per breast. The final price depends on the chosen method (implant or autologous tissue) and the extent of the procedure, and we will determine this following a personal consultation. Breast reconstruction surgery is not covered by health insurance at our clinic – we do not have contracts with health insurance providers; we recommend that you check with your insurance provider directly to see if partial reimbursement is available.