Breast reconstruction looks bad after mastectomy

Question

I had a mastectomy on the left with a tissue expander followed by a gel implant under the muscle. I had the right side reconstructed with a new implant (was saline over the muscle, now silicon under the pec) for symmetry. First they dont match at all so I need a third surgery. The cancer side looks awful when i use my pectoral muscle for anything. Can anything be done?

Keith M. Blechman, MD · Answer

It is oftentimes impossible to exactly match a native breast with a reconstructed breast, although recent techniques have vastly improved aesthetic outcomes.  For this reason, revisions after breast reconstruction are common, but fortunately there are many options available to remedy whatever problems exist.  You may be a candidate for a procedure called a free flap, specifically a DIEP, PAP, or GAP flap which may give you a more natural, symmetric appearance than an implant.  Talk to your plastic surgeon about this.Best of luck,Keith M. Blechman, MDNew York, NY

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

It sounds like you need a thorough review of your history and a detailed exam.  I also incorporate 3D imaging in all of these cases to establish the volume differences between the two reconstructions.  We would be happy to help if you can travel.

Ali Sadeghi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for sharing your story.  It's difficult to fully understand your concern without pictures but what you are describing is not uncommon.  Motion animation (breast moving when the pec muscle contracts) with implant reconstruction is common.  Your best bet is see your plastic surgeons and inquire about natural tissue reconstruction in the form of Perforator Flaps.  Do your research on DIEP, GAP or PAP flap breast reconstruction.  Hope that helps.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

so if that is your primary problem you will need to have a reconstruction using some kind of flap.  Ask your surgeon to discuss this in more detail or for a referral to groups that do this procedure regularly.  I use a group in the Bay Area as they were the ones that each everyone on how to do these procedures.

Kelly Killeen, MD, FACS · Answer

It is never possible to have a reconstructed breast look identical to a non-reconstructed breast.  There are however, many options to improve symmetry and the visible muscle flexion deformity.  Fat grafting is a great tool to improve the appearance of your reconstructed breast and help you feel more symmetric.  It is common to have several surgeries to achieve the best symmetry possible.  Address your concerns with your plastic surgeon and good luck!

Breast reconstruction looks bad after mastectomy

Answers (5)

Answer: Reconstruction with implants always results in muscle distortion

Answer: Reconstruction with implants always results in muscle distortion

Answer: Asymmetry after reconstruction

Answer: Asymmetry after reconstruction

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Breast reconstruction looks bad after mastectomy

Answers (5)

Answer: Reconstruction with implants always results in muscle distortion

Answer: Reconstruction with implants always results in muscle distortion

Answer: Asymmetry after reconstruction

Answer: Asymmetry after reconstruction

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.