BREAST RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY IN SINGAPORE
Breast reconstruction is a form of reconstructive breast surgery that helps restore breast shape after a mastectomy, trauma, or certain medical conditions. Depending on the clinical plan, reconstruction may be performed with implants or with a person’s own tissue through flap-based techniques.
Individuals exploring reconstruction options may enquire with AZATACA for more information on timing, suitability, and available methods. This includes understanding how the procedure fits with oncology treatments and long-term care. These conversations help individuals assess whether breast reconstruction surgery in Singapore aligns with their medical and personal considerations.
Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Breast reconstruction can be carried out using implants or a person’s own tissue. The choice depends on medical considerations, available tissue, and the wider treatment plan.
Implant-based reconstruction
Implant reconstruction may be performed in a single operation or in two stages, depending on skin and tissue readiness after mastectomy. In some situations, a temporary tissue expander is used before the final implant is placed. This option is generally considered when there is adequate skin and soft-tissue support or when an individual prefers a shorter initial procedure. Recovery is usually straightforward, although timelines vary among patients.
Flap-based reconstruction (autologous reconstruction)
Flap-based reconstruction uses tissue from areas such as the abdomen or inner thigh. Common approaches include the DIEP flap and TUG flap, both of which rely on transferring skin and fat while preserving muscle whenever possible. Because this method involves two surgical sites, recovery is longer than implant-based reconstruction and includes healing at the donor area. It may be recommended for individuals who prefer a tissue-based approach or who have undergone treatments that affect implant suitability.
AZATACA Plastic Surgery And Breast Reconstruction
AZATACA Plastic Surgery was established by surgeons with extensive involvement in breast reconstruction during their time at Singapore General Hospital.
Over more than a decade, they participated in implant-based and microsurgical reconstruction procedures as part of multidisciplinary care teams.
The clinic continues to collaborate with related specialists when needed so that reconstruction planning is aligned with broader medical treatment.
When to Consider Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction may be part of treatment planning for a range of medical situations. The timing often depends on the underlying condition, the individual’s overall health, and whether other treatments need to take place first. Some people consider reconstruction early, while others choose to revisit it later based on personal readiness and medical advice.
Situations where reconstruction may be considered include:
- After a mastectomy (planned or completed)
- Following trauma or significant infection affecting breast tissue
- After removal of silicone injections or other materials
- When breast shape or contour has changed due to disease or treatment
The timing of reconstruction varies based on the individual’s condition and overall treatment plan. In some cases, reconstruction can be incorporated into the same operation as breast removal, while in others it is safer or more appropriate to perform it later.
- Immediate reconstruction: Performed during the same operation as the mastectomy when the clinical situation allows. This approach may suit individuals who do not require treatments that could affect healing.
- Delayed reconstruction: Considered when additional therapies, such as radiation, or other medical factors need to be completed first, or when an individual prefers to make the decision at a later stage.
Reconstruction is a medically indicated procedure, and insurance coverage may apply depending on the individual’s policy. During planning discussions, the surgical team typically reviews how reconstruction aligns with oncology care, the timing of related treatments, and practical matters such as the breast reconstruction cost in Singapore, which can vary based on the surgical method (implant vs flap-based) and hospital-related factors.
Some individuals may also discuss procedures on the opposite breast to address differences in breast size or position after reconstruction, which can include techniques similar to breast augmentation or breast reduction. These are considered on a case-by-case basis to support balance and proportion after reconstruction.
Recovery & Results
Recovery after breast reconstruction depends on the method used, overall health, and the individual’s treatment plan.
Individuals who undergo implant reconstruction often return to light activities within one to two weeks. This varies depending on comfort levels, healing patterns, and any concurrent treatments. Flap procedures involve healing at both the chest and the donor site. As a result, recovery usually takes longer and may include specific activity restrictions while tissues settle and circulation establishes in the transferred flap. You can perform normal activities after around a month.
Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing, assess how tissues are settling, and discuss whether any minor adjustments or revision procedures may be helpful over time.
Reconstruction does not interfere with cancer treatment or monitoring. However, the timing of surgery is coordinated with oncology teams when needed to ensure that healing and medical treatments complement one another.
The aim of reconstruction is to address breast shape in a way that supports the individual’s broader recovery journey, while considering long-term comfort, proportion, and medical needs.
Moving Forward with Your Reconstruction Journey
Breast reconstruction is a personal decision that involves understanding timing, available techniques and how each option aligns with ongoing medical care. Individuals who would like to learn more about the reconstructive pathways available or how these approaches may fit into their treatment plan can speak with the team for further clarification and guidance.
To book a consultation with AZATACA Plastic Surgery, please fill in the contact form below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are factual, concise responses to common questions individuals consider when exploring their options.
What is breast reconstruction?
It is a surgical procedure that restores breast shape after mastectomy, trauma, infection, or other medical reasons. Techniques include implant-based and autologous (flap) methods.
How is breast reconstruction performed?
It may involve placing an implant or transferring tissue from another part of the body. The approach used depends on medical factors, treatment plans, and the amount of available tissue.
What are the types of breast reconstruction?
Common options include implant reconstruction and flap-based methods such as the DIEP or TUG flap. Each has different considerations related to recovery, donor sites, and suitability.
Who is a suitable candidate?
Individuals who have undergone or are planning a mastectomy, or who have experienced trauma or infection affecting the breast, may be candidates. Medical conditions, treatments, and tissue characteristics influence suitability.
When can reconstruction be done?
Reconstruction may be immediate, performed during the same operation as the mastectomy, or delayed until after treatments such as radiation. Both approaches are commonly used in breast reconstruction in Singapore.
Outcomes for breast reconstruction are more positive when the surgery is done at the same time as the mastectomy; however, it can be performed even years after the mastectomy.
What is the recovery time?
Implant-based procedures generally involve a shorter recovery of 1 to 2 weeks, while flap procedures require additional healing at the donor site, which can extend recovery up to a month. Timelines vary based on the individual.
Will the reconstructed breast look like natural tissue?
The goal is to address breast shape, but the appearance depends on the technique used, healing patterns, and individual anatomy. Results vary from person to person.
What are the risks of breast reconstruction?
Flap surgery: There is a small risk that the blood supply to the flap is inadequate. If this occurs, your surgeon will try to fix the problem. If the problem cannot be fixed, the flap will need to be removed.
Implant: A fluid collection called a ‘seroma’ can form around the implant that may require prolonged drainage. Being a foreign material, an implant has a risk of becoming infected. Some patients develop hardening around the implant (known as ‘capsular contracture’) several years after the surgery. A small percentage of women have developed Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), this is a rare lymphoma that can be cured by removing the implant and surrounding capsule.
These are discussed during consultation based on the chosen method.
Does reconstruction affect cancer treatment?
No. Reconstruction does not interfere with cancer surveillance or treatment, but timing is coordinated with oncology teams.
Is breast reconstruction covered by insurance?
Breast reconstruction is a medical procedure, not a cosmetic procedure, even though we aim to give you an aesthetically pleasing result. Whether it is covered by insurance will depend on your policy, but most policies cover it.
Can both breasts be reconstructed at the same time?
Yes, this is possible when clinically suitable. Some individuals undergo bilateral reconstruction for medical or personal reasons.
What affects the breast reconstruction surgery price in Singapore?
Costs depend on the method used, procedure complexity, hospital factors, and whether reconstruction is immediate or delayed. Insurance may cover part of the treatment depending on policy terms.
*Disclaimer: Results vary according to individual.