Breast reconstruction with an implant
After a mastectomy, a new breast can be made with an implant. This can be done in the same operation as the mastectomy or at a later stage. At the Alexander Monro Hospital, all the specialists meet every day to discuss the best treatment for you.
Where:Alexander Monro Hospital, Bilthoven
At a glance
- Duration
- 1 to 3 hours, depending on the technique
- Anaesthesia
- General anaesthetic
- Hospital stay
- Usually 1 night
- Stages
- One or two operations, plus a nipple reconstruction if you wish
- Insurance
- Basic health insurance
Who is it for?
- You are having or have had a mastectomy because of breast cancer
- You have a higher inherited risk and choose a preventive mastectomy
- You no longer want to wear an external breast prosthesis
The procedure
In an immediate reconstruction, I place the implant or a temporary tissue expander during the mastectomy.
With an expander, the skin is gradually stretched over a few weeks. A second operation then follows to place the permanent implant.
Later on, a nipple and areola can be made, for example with a small skin flap and a medical tattoo.
Recovery, step by step
First few weeks
Rest, a drain and a sports bra. How quickly you recover also depends on the rest of your treatment.
After 6 weeks
Most daily activities are possible again.
After 3 to 6 months
A second operation or a correction for better symmetry, if needed.
After that
A nipple reconstruction, if you would like one.
This is a general guide. We will discuss your own recovery time in the consultation.
Risks and complications
Care matters in every surgical treatment. Complications cannot always be prevented, but we do everything we can to keep the risks as small as possible.
In the consultation I take the time to explain what you can expect from the treatment and which risks may be involved. That way you can make a well-informed, confident choice that is right for you.
- Bleeding after the operation or bruising
- Wound infection
- Slow wound healing
- Scars that stay thick or red
- Capsular contracture, especially after radiotherapy
- Loss of the implant after a serious infection
- A difference from the other breast
You can also read the official information from the Dutch Society for Plastic Surgery (NVPC). It is only available in Dutch:
- NVPC information leaflet on silicone breast implants (in Dutch)
- NVPC information on BIA-ALCL and breast implants (in Dutch)
In the consultation I always explain this further, in English if you prefer.
Insurance cover
Breast reconstruction after breast cancer is covered by the Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering), which everyone living in the Netherlands has.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to decide straight away?
No. You can also finish your treatment first and decide later. I will talk you through the pros and cons of both options.
Is it possible after radiotherapy?
Sometimes, but radiotherapy increases the risk of problems with an implant. In that case, reconstruction with your own fat is often a better choice.
Do you also do reconstruction with tissue from the tummy (DIEP)?
I do not perform that technique myself. If it is the best choice for you, I will refer you to a colleague who specialises in it.
A good conversation is the first step.
In the consultation I take the time to answer your questions. You go home with honest advice and no obligation.