Approaches to breast reconstruction vary according to the type of mastectomy performed. The most common procedure involves placing a simple implant or prosthesis in the patient’s breast region. In case there is not enough skin to accommodate an implant, a "flap" of donor tissue is added. This flap contains skin, muscle, and the blood vessels needed to nourish the area and is generally taken from the back or the abdomen of the patient. In some flap procedures, an implant may not be necessary.

Another technique involves placement of a tissue expander (a balloon-like device) beneath the chest muscle. This device is gradually filled with saline to stretch the overlying skin in order to make room for the implant.

In both procedures, additional surgery is required to reconstruct the nipple and the areola areas. These reconstructive procedures are usually performed in the hospital under general anesthesia and may require a few days of hospitalization.

Post-operative discomfort is well managed by medications, and most patients are up and about within one week. Although some scarring is unavoidable, at Cocoona we make every effort to make scars as inconspicuous as possible.

Find out more about our breast reconstruction procedures, and how they can help you, by calling +971 4 3941090 or click here for our online query form.