Breast Reconstruction is a reconstructive procedure usually performed after breast cancer treatment to recreate lost breasts and thus rejuvenate the way you look. After a mastectomy, the breast is removed completely or its shape is significantly altered which affects its appearance. Breast reconstruction surgeries help patients regain the breasts and achieve a normal and desirable look.

This blog covers the two main types of breast reconstruction in Dubai that help women restore a normal-looking breast.

Types of breast reconstructions

The two main types of breast reconstruction surgeries are flap reconstruction and implant reconstruction. Sometimes, Plastic Surgeons combine the two processes to form a hybrid procedure that best meets the needs of the patient.

1. Flap Reconstruction Surgery

It is commonly known as autologous tissue reconstruction or tissue-beased reconstruction surgery.

In a Flap Reconstruction Surgery, the Plastic Surgeon removes the patient’s own tissue and remolds them to make a new breast. The tissues are usually taken from fatty areas like the thigh, abdomen, hips, or back.

If the Plastic Surgeon removes the muscle and tissue flap from the donor site and attaches the flap to the blood vessels of the breast, it is called the free flap process.

The Practitioner can also move the flap to the breast area without detaching its original blood supply. This is termed as pedicle flap process.

The tissue flap process is more natural as the tissue eventually undergoes natural changes just like any other body tissue. For example, the reconstructed breasts grow small and large as the body loses or gains weight.

Flap Reconstruction is further differentiated into various types:

  • Transverse Rectus Abdominous Muscle Flap
  • DIEP Flap
  • Gluteal Free Flap
  • TUG Flap
  • Latissimus Dorsi Flap

2. Implant Reconstruction

Implant Reconstruction is the second type of breast reconstruction. It involves using an expander or implant to make a breast mound and then placing them in the required area. Usually, a tear-shaped saline or silicone gel implants are used.

There are three types of implant reconstructions depending on the placement.

  • Under Chest Muscle

In this process, the Plastic Surgeon makes an incision, lifts the chest muscles, and places the implant underneath the muscles inside a breast pocket.

  • Above Chest Muscle

The Provider places the implant above the chest muscles, in front of the pectoral muscles. Since the muscles aren’t lifted or cut, it is a relatively easier process that offers quick recovery. However, an additional acellular dermal matrix tissue is used to hold the implants in place. The body replaces this tissue with collagen with time.

  • Expander Implant

During this process, the surgeon places a stretchable balloon-like expander underneath the pectoral muscles. It expands with time as the Plastic Surgeon injects saline into the expander to fill it in steps. It is a slow process that allows the skin to stretch every time the Provider injects saline.

While some Practitioners prefer breast implants and others opt for flap reconstruction, some prefer combining both flap tissue and implant reconstruction as it offers more promising results.

Breast Reconstruction Complications

Just like any other cosmetic surgery, breast reconstruction also has some risks associated with it. These include:

  • Fluid collection at the operated site
  • Internal bleeding
  • Blood clotting
  • Excessive scarring
  • Infection
  • Swelling

However, these side effects and complications can easily be overcome by consulting a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Need Help?

If you are interested in knowing more about Breast Reconstruction in Dubai, feel free to contact the Al Shunnar patient care team. Our coordinators will readily schedule a personal consultation session for you with one of our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons.