Plastic and Breast Reconstructive Surgery
Plastic and breast reconstructive surgery plays a transformative role in the recovery journey of women who undergo surgery for breast cancer. Beyond physical healing, it addresses the emotional and psychological aspects of recovery, restoring body image, self-confidence, and a sense of wholeness.
At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, we advocate for immediate breast reconstruction, where reconstruction is done at the same time as mastectomy. This approach allows women to avoid the experience of waking up to loss — preserving continuity of body image, reducing the number of surgeries, and often leading to better aesthetic and psychological outcomes. When feasible, we encourage women to consider this option early, so that they can make confident, well-informed choices as part their cancer treatment plan.
We also place special emphasis on autologous reconstruction techniques that use the patient’s own tissue to recreate the breast. These offer natural, long-lasting results with lower long-term risks compared to implants. Techniques such as DIEP and TUG flaps, performed by skilled plastic surgeons, represent the gold standard in safety and patient satisfaction.
Plastic and reconstructive surgery at Apollo Athenaa goes beyond breast restoration. We also proactively address cancer treatment-related complications such as lymphedema, using both prophylactic and surgical strategies to improve quality of life.
Tailored to each individual, plastic and breast reconstructive surgery embodies the principles of modern, patient-centred care. At our one-of-a-kind women’s cancer centre, we bring together clinical excellence, empathy, and personalised planning to deliver holistic care that not only treats the body but also supports the mind and spirit.
Treatment Options
1.Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is a transformative milestone in the recovery journey of many women undergoing mastectomy. Beyond restoring physical appearance, it plays a crucial role in emotional healing, self-confidence, and overall quality of life.
Reconstruction after Mastectomy
Performed during the same surgery as cancer removal (such as mastectomy), this approach allows patients to wake up with reconstruction already in place, reducing the trauma of loss and the need for a second major operation.
Types of reconstruction
- DIEP Flap Reconstruction
This advanced microsurgical technique uses one’s own skin and fat from the lower abdomen to rebuild the breast without removing any muscle. It offers a natural feel and minimal long-term donor site weakness. This is the gold standard method for reconstruction, and most commonly performed worldwide. [Read More]
- TUG Flap (Thigh-Based) Reconstruction
Tissue from the inner thigh is used to create the breast mound, suitable for women who are not candidates for abdominal-based flaps. [Read More]
- Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction
A muscle, skin, and fat flap from the upper back is tunneled to the chest, often combined with an implant, to restore breast shape. [Read More]
- Expander/Implant Reconstruction
A staged reconstruction where a temporary tissue expander is placed post-mastectomy and gradually inflated before being replaced with a permanent implant. [Read More]
- Nipple Reconstruction & Tattooing
Performed in the final stages, surgical reconstruction of the nipple and areola is followed by 3D medical tattooing to achieve a lifelike appearance [Read More]
Symmetry & Cosmesis
After breast reconstruction, achieving a balanced and symmetrical appearance is often one of the most important final steps in a woman’s recovery. Differences in shape, size, or position between the natural and reconstructed breasts can influence not only overall appearance but also comfort in clothing and confidence in daily life.
Contralateral Symmetrisation
Contralateral symmetrisation is a surgical procedure performed on the natural (unaffected) breast to match the reconstructed breast after mastectomy. It addresses differences in size, shape, volume, and position.
Breast Reduction
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create a smaller, lighter, and more proportionate breast.
Lymphedema Management
Lymphedema is a potential side effect of lymph node removal or radiation, particularly in breast and gynecological cancers. Our approach includes preventive care and advanced surgical options to manage this condition.
1. Lymphovenous Anastomosis (LVA)
This is supermicrosurgery that reroutes lymphatic channels into small veins, reducing swelling and discomfort.
2. Lymph Node Transfer (LNT)
Healthy lymph nodes from another part of the body are transplanted to the affected area to restore drainage.
3. Liposuction for Lymphedema
In advanced stages, liposuction removes accumulated fat and fibrous tissue to improve limb size and function.
4. Prophylactic Surgery for Lymphedema
One of the most promising advancements in lymphedema prevention is Preventive Lymphovenous Anastomosis, a microsurgical procedure performed at the time of axillary clearance to re-route lymphatic flow before symptoms develop.
Our Experts
Dr. Samarth Gupta
(Designation)
Dr. Samarth Gupta is a highly accomplished plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a dedicated focus on breast reconstruction. Trained across premier institutions in India and the UK, he brings with him a unique blend of technical expertise, precision, and compassionate care. With extensive experience in microsurgery, aesthetic surgery, and autologous as well as implant-based breast reconstruction, Dr. Gupta is at the forefront of advanced surgical interventions that restore both form and confidence. His deep commitment to patient-centred outcomes marks him as a leader in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
[Read More]
Continuum of Care
Breast reconstruction is not a one-time procedure; it’s part of a long-term journey of healing. At Apollo Athenaa, we support women through every stage with a coordinated, compassionate approach.
Our care includes:
- Pre-surgical counselling to align expectations and explain reconstruction options
- Multidisciplinary planning, ensuring all treatment modalities — oncologic, surgical, and reconstructive — are aligned and optimised
- Seamless intraoperative coordination for combined cancer and reconstructive surgeries
- Post-operative monitoring for wound healing, cosmetic results, and functional recovery
- Staged procedures and refinements, especially in cases requiring radiation or implant replacement
- Prophylactic lymphedema surgery for early intervention and rehabilitation
- Emotional and psychosocial support, including access to counsellors, support groups, and therapists
This model ensures that no woman is left to navigate the complexities of cancer and reconstruction alone. Through every decision, transition, and healing milestone, our team remains deeply involved. We are committed to walking with you at every step — helping you heal holistically.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can all patients opt for immediate reconstruction?
Yes, in most cases, you’ll be eligible for immediate reconstruction. Your surgeon will help confirm what is right for you.
2. Will reconstruction affect cancer treatment?
When well-planned, reconstruction doesn’t delay chemotherapy or radiation.
3. Are flap surgeries better than implants?
Flap surgeries use your own tissue (autologous) and may feel more natural, but they involve longer surgery. Implants are less invasive but may need replacement later. We’ll help you decide what is best for your body and lifestyle.
4. Is nipple reconstruction necessary?
It’s an optional step for cosmetic completeness and is typically done at the end of the reconstruction journey.
5. Can lymphedema be cured?
It can be effectively managed and improved with surgical techniques like LVA or LNT when detected early.
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