This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. Plastic Surgery is invasive and has risks.
This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. Plastic Surgery is invasive and has risks.
Breast reconstruction surgery involves rebuilding the breast shape following mastectomy or significant breast tissue loss. For many women who have undergone breast cancer treatment, reconstruction represents an important step in reclaiming confidence and restoring a sense of wholeness. Dr Kevin Ho works closely with each patient to develop a personalised reconstruction plan that respects both your medical history and your aesthetic goals.
At our Sydney practice, we understand that every reconstruction journey is unique. Whether you’re considering immediate reconstruction at the time of mastectomy or delayed reconstruction months or years later, Dr Ho provides expert guidance through every stage of this restorative process.
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure designed to recreate a breast mound—and sometimes the nipple and areola—after breast tissue has been removed due to cancer or trauma. The procedure aims to restore the natural breast contour and achieve symmetry with the opposite breast.
There are two primary approaches to breast reconstruction:
Implant-based reconstruction uses breast implants to recreate breast volume and shape. This technique often involves a tissue expander placed initially, which is gradually filled over several weeks to stretch the skin. Once the desired size is achieved, the expander is replaced with a permanent implant during a second procedure.
Autologous (tissue flap) reconstruction uses your body’s own tissue, commonly from the abdomen or back, to rebuild the breast. These flaps include skin, fat, and sometimes muscle, transferred to the chest to form a natural-feeling breast mound. Common flap techniques include the DIEP flap (using abdominal tissue) and latissimus dorsi flap (using tissue from the back).
Some patients may benefit from a hybrid approach, combining implants with autologous tissue for optimal results.
Immediate reconstruction is performed at the same time as your mastectomy. This approach offers the advantage of waking from surgery with a breast form already in place, potentially reducing the psychological impact of breast loss.
Delayed reconstruction takes place months or even years after mastectomy. This option may be recommended if you require radiation therapy following mastectomy, or if you prefer to complete cancer treatment before pursuing reconstruction.
The timing that’s right for you depends on your cancer treatment plan, overall health, and personal preferences. Dr Ho works in collaboration with your breast cancer surgeon to determine the most appropriate approach.
Breast reconstruction offers several meaningful benefits for women who have undergone mastectomy:
Reconstruction re-establishes the breast shape, helping create balance and proportion with your opposite breast. This can make it easier to wear everyday clothing, swimwear, and undergarments with confidence.
For many women, reconstruction provides a sense of closure following breast cancer treatment. While individual experiences vary, restoring the breast form can contribute to improved body image and quality of life during the recovery journey.
Reconstruction can be tailored to suit your health status, treatment schedule, and personal readiness. Whether you choose immediate or delayed reconstruction, you maintain control over when and how to proceed.
Particularly with autologous reconstruction, the rebuilt breast can have a soft, natural feel. Even implant-based reconstruction techniques have advanced considerably, offering improved aesthetic outcomes.
It’s important to note that while reconstruction offers these benefits, every patient’s experience is unique. Dr Ho takes time during your consultation to discuss realistic expectations and ensure reconstruction aligns with your individual goals.
Understanding what to expect at each stage helps you prepare for your reconstruction journey. Here’s an overview of the typical process:
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Ho. During this appointment, he will review your breast surgery history, cancer treatment plan, anatomy, and discuss the various reconstruction options available. This is an opportunity to ask questions, express your concerns, and understand the potential outcomes of each technique.
Step 2: Pre-operative Preparation
Once you’ve decided to proceed, Dr Ho’s team will guide you through pre-operative preparation. This may include medical clearances, imaging studies, and coordination with your oncology or mastectomy team if required. You’ll receive detailed instructions about medications, lifestyle adjustments, and what to expect on surgery day.
Step 3: Surgery
The surgical approach depends on your chosen reconstruction method:
Step 4: Hospital Stay and Initial Recovery
Following surgery, you’ll remain in hospital for monitoring. Implant-based reconstruction may require a shorter hospital stay, while flap procedures typically need several days for observation. Surgical drains are often placed to collect fluid, and you’ll receive instructions for wound care and activity restrictions.
Step 5: Follow-up and Additional Procedures
Reconstruction is often a staged process. Follow-up appointments allow Dr Ho to monitor healing and discuss any symmetry procedures that may be needed for your opposite breast. Many patients also choose nipple and areola reconstruction at a later stage, typically performed as an outpatient procedure once the reconstructed breast has settled.
Throughout this journey, Dr Ho and his team provide ongoing support, answering questions and adjusting your care plan as needed.
Breast reconstruction may be suitable for you if:
During your consultation, Dr Ho will assess your individual circumstances, medical history, and aesthetic goals to determine whether reconstruction is appropriate for you. He takes a thorough approach to ensure you’re well-informed and comfortable with your decision.
Real patient outcomes demonstrate the transformative potential of breast reconstruction. Our gallery showcases examples of restored breast shape and improved symmetry following mastectomy.
Please note: Results vary between individuals. Each reconstruction is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy, medical history, and personal goals. The images in our gallery are provided for educational purposes and to give you a sense of what may be possible.
Recovery from breast reconstruction varies depending on the technique used and your individual healing process. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare and ensure the best possible outcome.
Following surgery, you’ll spend time in hospital for monitoring and initial recovery. If surgical drains have been placed, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to manage them until they’re removed at a follow-up appointment. For flap reconstructions, special monitoring of blood flow to the transferred tissue is essential during the first 24-48 hours.
Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Ho are essential to monitor healing, address any concerns, and plan subsequent stages if needed. These appointments also provide an opportunity to discuss timing for procedures such as opposite breast adjustment or nipple reconstruction.
It’s important to remember that reconstruction is often a multi-stage process. Achieving the best outcome requires patience, commitment to aftercare instructions, and realistic expectations about the healing journey.
The cost of breast reconstruction varies significantly based on several factors, including the surgical technique, length of hospital stay, whether implants or flaps are used, and any symmetry or revision procedures required.
Your personalised quote will encompass:
In some cases, breast reconstruction following mastectomy may attract Medicare benefits or private health insurance contributions. The extent of coverage depends on your individual circumstances and health fund. Dr Ho’s team can provide guidance on potential rebates during your consultation.
A detailed, personalised quote will be provided after your initial consultation once Dr Ho has assessed your specific needs and developed a tailored reconstruction plan.
Understanding the key details of breast reconstruction helps you make an informed decision about your care.
The duration of surgery and length of hospital stay vary considerably:
As with any surgical procedure, breast reconstruction carries certain risks. These are discussed in detail during your consultation and include:
Recovery timelines are outlined in the Recovery & Aftercare section above. Most patients require several weeks away from work and regular activities, with gradual resumption of exercise and physical tasks over 6-12 weeks.
Reconstruction costs depend on the complexity of your procedure and the number of stages involved. A personalised quote will be provided following your consultation.
Our before-and-after gallery features real patients who have undergone breast reconstruction with Dr Ho. These images demonstrate the range of techniques and outcomes possible, from implant-based reconstruction to autologous flap procedures.
Each patient’s journey is unique, and results reflect individual anatomy, surgical approach, and healing. The gallery is provided to help you understand potential outcomes and set realistic expectations for your own reconstruction.
Disclaimer: Individual results will vary. These images are for educational purposes only.
Breast reconstruction is surgery to rebuild the breast shape after mastectomy or significant tissue loss. It can be performed immediately at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or months to years later (delayed reconstruction). The timing depends on your cancer treatment plan, need for radiation therapy, and personal preference.
Implant-based reconstruction uses breast implants to recreate volume and shape, often involving a tissue expander first. Flap reconstruction uses your own tissue from areas like the abdomen or back to rebuild the breast. Some patients benefit from a hybrid approach combining both methods. Each technique has distinct advantages, and Dr Ho will help you determine which is most suitable.
Recovery varies by technique. Implant-based reconstruction typically involves 2-4 weeks of limited activity, with full recovery taking several months. Flap reconstruction requires a longer initial recovery period of 4-6 weeks, as it involves more extensive surgery. Both approaches may require multiple stages, and complete healing can take 6-12 months.
While reconstruction aims to restore breast shape and achieve symmetry, the reconstructed breast will not be identical to your original breast. Factors such as scarring, changes in sensation, and the nature of the reconstruction technique mean the appearance and feel will differ. Dr Ho works to create the most natural-looking result possible while setting realistic expectations.
Breast reconstruction following mastectomy may be eligible for Medicare rebates and private health insurance benefits. The level of coverage depends on your individual circumstances and health fund policy. Dr Ho’s team can provide information about potential rebates and help you understand your options during the consultation process.
Potential risks include bleeding, infection, flap failure in autologous reconstruction, implant-related issues such as capsular contracture, and the possibility of requiring revision surgery. Changes in breast sensation are common. Dr Ho discusses these risks thoroughly during your consultation and takes every measure to minimise complications through careful surgical planning and technique.
Yes, both options are available. Immediate reconstruction is performed during the same surgery as your mastectomy. Delayed reconstruction occurs months or years later. The best timing for you depends on your cancer treatment plan (particularly if radiation therapy is needed), overall health, and personal readiness. Dr Ho collaborates with your breast cancer surgeon to determine the optimal approach.
Dr Kevin Ho is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), with extensive experience in reconstructive breast surgery. His approach combines technical excellence with genuine empathy for each patient’s unique journey following breast cancer treatment.
Reconstruction is a deeply personal decision, and Dr Ho is committed to providing individualised care tailored to your medical history, aesthetic goals, and emotional needs. Whether you’re exploring immediate reconstruction or considering delayed options, he offers expert guidance through each stage of the process, from initial consultation through to final refinement procedures.
Located in Randwick, Sydney, Dr Ho’s practice welcomes patients from across New South Wales and beyond. His multi-stage reconstruction plans are designed with flexibility, allowing you to proceed at a pace that suits your health and personal circumstances.
Ready to take the next step?
Suite 10, Level 7
Prince of Wales Private Hospital
Barker Street, Randwick NSW 2031
Phone: (02) 9650 4900
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Our clinic is conveniently located in Randwick, providing accessible care for patients throughout Sydney and regional New South Wales.
Clinic Address:
Suite 10, Level 7
Prince of Wales Private Hospital
Barker Street, Randwick NSW 2031
For directions and additional contact information, visit our Contact page.
This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. Plastic Surgery is invasive and has risks.
