Reconstruction Options After a Mastectomy
August 15, 2025
Deciding whether or not to have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy is a personal choice. Some people choose to have it, and some do not. There’s no right or wrong answer—what is best depends on you, your body, and your preferences.
At Presbyterian Cancer Care, patients across New Mexico receive personalized guidance and support to explore breast reconstruction options and make informed decisions.
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that rebuilds the shape of the breast after mastectomy. It can be done at the same time as breast cancer surgery or later, depending on your treatment plan and preferences.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
There are two main types of breast reconstruction: implant-based reconstruction and autologous (flap) reconstruction. Some patients may also be candidates for a combination of both.
Implant-based breast reconstruction uses silicone or saline (saltwater) implants to create the shape of the breast. This can be done during the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or sometime later (delayed reconstruction). Often, it’s done in two steps to help the body heal properly.
Benefits may include:
Shorter surgery time
Smaller incisions
Faster initial recovery
Things to consider:
May require additional procedures in the future
Implants may need replacement over time
Flap (or autologous) breast reconstruction uses tissue from another part of your body—like your belly, back, or thighs—to rebuild the breast. This method can look and feel more natural than implants, but it usually means a longer hospital stay and recovery time.
Benefits may include:
More natural appearance and feel
No implants required
Long-lasting results
Things to consider:
Longer surgery and recovery time
Longer hospital stay
Additional surgical site on the body
Some people may also choose a hybrid reconstruction, which is a mix of both implants and flap tissue. This option may offer more flexibility in how the final results look and feel.
Every option has pros and cons. It’s important to talk with your plastic surgeon about what will work best for you. They can walk you through your choices, answer your questions, and help you feel confident in your decision.
At Presbyterian Cancer Care, breast surgeons, plastic surgeons, and oncology specialists work together to create a personalized reconstruction plan that supports both physical healing and emotional well-being. Patients across New Mexico have access to a variety of breast cancer surgery and reconstruction options close to home, along with education and compassionate support throughout recovery.
Every patient’s journey is different, and your care team will walk you through the benefits, risks, and timing of each option so you can feel confident in your decision.
Learn More About Breast Cancer Care at Presbyterian
If you are considering breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, talk with your care team or plastic surgeon about your options.
Visit phs.org/cancer to learn more about breast cancer treatment, reconstruction services, and support programs available across New Mexico.
Clinical information provided by Ryan Kunkel, plastic surgeon at Presbyterian Cancer Care.
