Breast reconstruction after breast cancer is a key step in restoring body image, silhouette, and self-confidence. This procedure can follow a mastectomy (complete removal of the breast) or a lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery), and outcomes depend on the technique used. Reconstruction is available to women who wish to regain an aesthetically and functionally complete breast after cancer treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Breast reconstruction may be performed immediately at the time of the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later time (delayed reconstruction). In our practice, we prioritize immediate reconstruction<\/strong> whenever possible, including in patients scheduled for additional therapies like chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Thanks to refined techniques and optimized patient care, over 95% of patients are eligible<\/strong> for this approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Immediate reconstruction offers numerous advantages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Each patient\u2019s journey is unique. For those who have already undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy, delayed reconstruction<\/strong> remains a viable option. This personalized approach allows us to adapt to medical history, body type, and patient preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are several techniques available depending on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is the most common method in France and involves inserting an implant beneath the pectoral muscle. It can be used in both immediate and delayed reconstruction. However, implants can present challenges:<\/p>\n\n\n\n This technique uses autologous tissue<\/strong> (your own fat and skin) taken from areas like the abdomen, under the buttocks, or back. It offers a natural feel<\/strong>, adjusts with body weight changes, and is well tolerated during radiotherapy<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best suited for women with abdominal skin excess (often post-pregnancy). The reconstruction uses skin and fat only<\/strong>, preserving muscle integrity. Scarring is hidden under the bikini line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although it requires microsurgery<\/strong> to reconnect blood vessels, DIEP is considered the gold standard<\/strong> in breast reconstruction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ideal for slimmer patients lacking abdominal tissue. Tissue is taken from beneath the buttock crease. It\u2019s less voluminous than DIEP and best for women with B or C cups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Used when microsurgery isn\u2019t possible or there\u2019s significant back tissue. Unlike the older latissimus dorsi flap<\/strong>, it preserves muscle and causes less discomfort. However, the fat volume is limited, often requiring complementary lipofilling<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fat is harvested from the body (abdomen, flanks, thighs) and injected into the reconstructed breast. It improves shape, volume, and texture. Full reconstruction with fat alone is possible but requires 3\u20135 sessions, spaced over several months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To achieve symmetry, the opposite (unaffected) breast may be reduced, lifted, or reshaped\u2014either at the time of reconstruction or later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When tissue remains post-lumpectomy, reconstruction can be achieved through implants<\/strong> or lipofilling<\/strong>. Symmetry procedures may be required to ensure a natural look. Technique choice depends on tissue availability and patient goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The procedure can last between 2 and 8 hours<\/strong>, depending on complexity. Multiple surgeries spaced several months apart may be needed for the final results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Breast reconstruction is covered 100% by Assurance Maladie<\/strong>, including secondary procedures such as nipple reconstruction or breast symmetrization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if your surgeon charges over the standard rate (sector II), your health insurance may cover the difference<\/strong>, depending on your policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please refer to our price list or contact our team for an individualized estimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to post-cancer reconstruction, surgery can correct congenital or post-operative breast deformities using autologous techniques such as fat grafting. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Areola and Nipple Reconstruction<\/strong>The final step in complete breast reconstruction is nipple and areola creation<\/strong>, which we perform using an innovative method that avoids harvesting grafts from the thigh. Medical tattooing may also be used for realistic results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Delayed Breast Reconstruction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy: What Are Your Options?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Reconstruction with Breast Implants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Flap Reconstruction (Using Your Own Tissue)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Benefits:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Limitations:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Flap Techniques Offered by Our Team<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
DIEP\/SIEA Flap (Abdomen)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
PAP Flap (Under the Buttocks)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
TDAP (Back Fold Flap)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Lipofilling and Complementary Procedures<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Breast Lipomodelling (Fat Grafting)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Breast Harmonization<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Breast Reconstruction After Lumpectomy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Breast Reconstruction Procedure: What to Expect<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Surgical Phases:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Recovery and Post-Operative Care<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Cost and Reimbursement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Breast Reconstruction for Congenital or Acquired Malformations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n