How long will my breast reconstruction results last?
For implant-based reconstruction, the results will be long-lasting; however, it’s important to know that you likely will need to replace breast implants over time. You’ll need to schedule routine follow-ups with your surgeon to determine the frequency for replacing your implants.
- If you have breast reconstruction on one breast, changes in that breast will be different from that in the other breast. Your own natural breast tissue is more likely to sag and lose elasticity compared with an implant-reconstructed breast, which tends to droop less and stay youthful over time.
- With a bilateral mastectomy and bilateral reconstruction with implants, it is common to have well-projected, young-appearing breasts with no sagging even into your eighth decade of life.
- With breast reconstruction using tissue flaps, gravity affects the tissues, but the tissues may not age the same as breast tissues because they are from other parts of the body.
With breast augmentation using fat transfer, the results are long-lasting but you will lose some volume and may experience sagging over time.
- The skin and fat from the upper back or buttocks region is much thicker and more fibrous and does not tend to droop or sag as much as breast tissue.
- Abdomen skin and fat are very similar to breast tissue and tend to droop or sag over time. These tissues do not "know" that they have been moved from another part of the body, so their response to weight loss may be different from that of your natural breast tissue.
While results are individual to each patient, breast reconstruction before and after photos can help you assess what a successful breast will look like.
What do I need to consider after my breast reconstruction?
To achieve the most beautiful and safe outcome, it’s important you return to your aesthetic plastic surgeon's office for follow-up evaluations at prescribed times and whenever you notice any changes. Do not hesitate to contact your surgeon when you have any questions or concerns.