Breast implant surgery for reconstruction is a procedure to restore the shape and appearance of a breast after its removal due to cancer (mastectomy) or to correct a congenital condition. It does not treat the underlying cancer but addresses the physical consequences of the treatment. The goal is to recreate a breast mound to improve symmetry and restore the patient's original form.
Verdict
An effective standard-of-care procedure for breast reconstruction with significant surgical risks.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
Foundational
RISK LEVEL
High
EVIDENCE GRADE
A
MONTHLY COST
$10000 - $25000
Protocol
- Procedure is performed under general anesthesia, often in one or two stages.
- A tissue expander may be placed first, followed by a permanent implant months later.
- The implant (saline or silicone) is placed under the pectoral muscle or skin.
Flags
- Standard surgical risks include infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
- Long-term risks include capsular contracture (scar tissue hardening), implant rupture, and shifting.
- Associated with a rare cancer of the immune system: Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
- Implants are not lifetime devices and may require replacement or removal surgery.
- May interfere with mammogram readings and require specialized imaging techniques.