PRECISE. PERSONAL. PROVEN.
A well-established approach to breast reconstruction after mastectomy, using a breast implant to restore shape and volume, with a shorter operation and recovery than flap surgery.
ABOUT THIS PROCEDURE
Implant-based reconstruction is one of the most widely performed breast reconstruction techniques in the UK. It restores the shape and volume of the breast following mastectomy using a silicone implant. It offers women who have undergone surgery for cancer, injury, or other medical reasons a pathway back to a natural-looking, balanced appearance.
The procedure suits patients who prefer a less invasive option than tissue-based (flap) reconstruction, or who have limited donor tissue available. Modern breast implants used in reconstruction are designed to resemble the natural breast in shape, projection and feel, and the surgical techniques used to place and support them have advanced significantly over recent years.
Reconstruction can be performed immediately at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction), or at a later point once other treatment such as radiotherapy has been completed (delayed reconstruction). It may be completed in a single stage or staged over two procedures, depending on your anatomy, treatment plan, and the technique chosen by your surgeon.
YOUR SURGICAL OPTIONS
The right approach depends on your anatomy, mastectomy type, and treatment plan.
SINGLE STAGE
The permanent implant is placed at the same time as the mastectomy. This single-stage approach avoids a second operation and suits patients with sufficient skin envelope remaining. It is ideal when skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy techniques are used.
TWO STAGE
A temporary tissue expander is placed first and gradually filled with saline over several weeks to stretch the skin. Once adequate expansion is achieved, a second procedure exchanges the expander for the permanent implant. This staged approach is used when more skin needs to be created first.
ADM-SUPPORTED
Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is a biological mesh used to support and position the implant, improving lower pole shape and reducing the risk of complications. ADM-assisted reconstruction has become increasingly common and allows for better implant control and a more refined final result.
PROCEDURE AT A GLANCE
Key procedure details. Your surgeon will confirm specifics at consultation.
Surgery Time
Anaesthesia
Hospital Stay
Drains Required
Sports Bra Worn
The exact surgical approach is determined at consultation, based on your individual anatomy and goals.
RECOVERY TIMELINE
Week 1
Most patients are discharged within 1–3 days and seen at their first follow-up within a week. Drains are managed and the implant site is monitored closely. Light work is typically possible from the end of the first week.
Weeks 2–4
Most patients return to moderately physical daily activity and work within 2–4 weeks. The sports bra continues to be worn throughout this period to support the implant and allow the surrounding tissue to settle.
Week 6
Strenuous physical activity, chest exercises and heavy lifting can typically resume from six weeks post-surgery, subject to your surgeon’s assessment at follow-up. The sports bra is worn until this point.
3+ Months
The implant settles into its natural position and the surrounding soft tissue adapts. The reconstructed breast takes its final shape and appearance over the following months. Refinement procedures can be considered once the result has stabilised.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Implant-based reconstruction consistently delivers excellent aesthetic results. Most patients experience:
WHY IMPLANT RECONSTRUCTION
At 4 hours, implant reconstruction is a shorter procedure than most flap-based alternatives. Recovery is also quicker, with light work possible within a week and full activity from six weeks.
Unlike DIEP or LD flap surgery, implant reconstruction does not require tissue to be harvested from another part of the body, so there is no second scar on the abdomen, back, or thigh.
The generation of implants used in reconstruction today bears little resemblance to earlier devices. Form-stable silicone implants offer a natural shape and feel, with extensive safety data and long-term performance records.
Implants can be used alongside acellular dermal matrix (ADM), fat transfer, or symmetry procedures on the opposite breast to further refine and personalise the overall reconstruction result.
PLANNING AHEAD
Modern breast implants are durable and designed to last many years. They do not carry a fixed expiry date and do not need routine replacement if no problems arise. The most common long-term concern is capsular contracture, where scar tissue that naturally forms around the implant tightens over time, potentially changing its feel or shape. This can usually be managed surgically if it occurs.
Regular self-examination and MRI surveillance (recommended every few years for silicone implants) allows any changes to be identified early. Most patients live comfortably with their implant reconstruction for many years without requiring any intervention.
Long-Term Care & Monitoring
COMPLETING YOUR RECONSTRUCTION
For most patients, the implant placement is the first stage of a longer reconstruction process. Once the implant has settled and the result has stabilised, typically after 3–6 months, further refinements can be considered to complete the outcome.
Procedures on the opposite breast such as a lift, reduction or augmentation can be performed to match the reconstructed side more closely. Nipple reconstruction, using local tissue flaps, can recreate the nipple mound, followed by tattooing to restore the areola. Fat transfer can also be used to refine the shape and add volume where needed.
IS THIS FOR YOU?
Implant-based reconstruction suits many patients, but individual anatomy and treatment history affect suitability. You are likely a good candidate if you:
EXPLORE FURTHER
Explore the full range of reconstruction options available to you.
RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Your starting point: an overview of all reconstruction techniques and what to consider.
RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Microsurgical reconstruction using your own tissue, with no implant.
RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Surgical restoration following injury, accident, or complications from previous surgery.
Verified patient reviews
Independently published reviews from patients of Prof. Hindocha, quoted in full and exactly as written. Every one links back to its source.
★★★★★
After years of being unhappy with my breasts after breastfeeding, I'm so glad I trusted my instincts and waited until I found the right surgeon. From my first consultation, Professor Hindocha made me feel completely at ease and I knew I could trust him. I'm only a week post-op and already love my results. I feel incredibly lucky to have found him and truly believe I found the best surgeon.
K.N.
Breast surgery patient
★★★★★
Amazing experience and surgeon. So incredibly thorough, precise and professional. Went above and beyond to explain every last detail to me, he put me at ease, didn't mind a family member being there, very down to earth, can't praise him enough. Would only use this surgeon now.
L.O.
Consultation and surgery
★★★★★
I cannot recommend prof Hindocha enough, from consultation to aftercare he has amazing as have his team. Very professional , I felt very reassured through every step of the process. Thank you Prof Hindocha and team for your kind and professional care.
D.T.
Consultation to aftercare
Read all verified patient reviews
Patient stories describe individual experiences. Results vary from person to person, and the risks, limitations and likely outcome of any procedure are discussed with you at consultation.
BOOK A CONSULTATION
A private, no-obligation consultation.
A consultation with Prof. Hindocha is the right place to begin. Every reconstruction is different. Your anatomy, treatment history and personal goals will all shape the approach. Take the first step and start the conversation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Straightforward answers to what patients ask most.
