Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to recreate breasts after mastectomy (surgery to remove all breast tissue from a breast) or lumpectomy (surgery to remove a portion of tissue from a breast).
Breast reconstruction surgeries are broadly grouped into two types: implant-based and tissue-based (flap) procedures. Your doctor will suggest options from both groups based on the type and stage of your breast cancer treatment, your body shape and available tissue and any personal preference.
The cost generally starts in Mumbai from around ₹1,00,000 and can go up to ₹5,00,000 or more, based on several factors. All you need to do is make an informed choice after properly discussing all the options with your oncology team.
Read Also: Best Breast Cancer Hospital in Mumbai, India: Treatment, Cost & Specialists
What is Breast Reconstruction Surgery
It is an operation to recreate the shape and appearance of a breast after all or part of it has been removed, generally for breast cancer treatment.Read Also: Sonomammography vs Mammography: Which Breast Screening Test Is Right For You?
Why is it Done?
It can be done in the following scenarios:- Right after breast cancer surgery (immediate reconstruction).
- To rebuild breast shape and volume.
- In some cases for congenital (birth) abnormalities.
Types of Breast Reconstruction Surgeries
There are 2 main types of breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomies.1. Implant-based Reconstruction
In implant reconstruction, surgeons use saline or silicone implants to recreate breast tissue. Sometimes experts can use a combination of implants and tissue from your body.The types of implant reconstruction are:
- Under the chest muscle.
- Above the chest muscle.
- Implant with tissue expander under your skin.
2. Autologous/flap Reconstruction
In flap (also known as autologous) reconstruction, your surgeon takes tissue from your own body (autologous tissue) and uses it to develop a breast. Generally, the experts take the tissue from the lower abdomen (belly). But the source can be from your thigh, back or bottom.Here are the common types of flap that you can explore in the below given table.
| Flap Type | Source Location | Muscle Involved? | Key Details |
| DIEP flap | Lower belly | No | Your provider takes skin, fat and blood vessels from the lower belly. |
| TRAM flap | Lower belly | Yes | Includes skin, fat, blood vessels, and muscle. |
| Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap | Back | Yes | Tissue and muscle transplanted while keeping its blood supply. |
| IGAP flap | Butt | No | Tissue only (no muscle). |
| SGAP flap | Butt | No | Tissue only; uses different blood vessels than IGAP. |
| PAP flap | Inner/back of thigh | No | Tissue used to form breast (no muscle). |
| TUG flap | Thigh | Yes | Similar to PAP but includes muscle. |
| SIEA (or SIEP) flap | Lower belly | No | Like DIEP but different blood vessels; less common due to vessel suitability. |
Can a Nipple Be Reconstructed?
Yes. Nipple reconstruction can rebuild the nipple and areola using local tissue flaps, grafts, or 3D tattooing after breast reconstruction, primarily for cosmetic and psychological benefits.Read Also: Mammogram vs Breast Ultrasound: What’s the Difference?
Breast Reconstruction Procedure| The Simple Explanation
The procedure generally involves the following steps:- General anaesthesia is given.
- If required, the breast surgeon initially performs a mastectomy or lumpectomy.
- Your plastic surgeon then reconstructs the breast with either saline or silicone (also known as an implant reconstruction) or your own tissue from your abdomen, back, buttocks, or thigh (also known as flap reconstruction).
- For implant reconstruction, a tissue expander may be placed and slowly filled over weeks. Then later replaced with a permanent implant in a second procedure.
- If you're having a flap procedure, they take tissue from one part of your body, form it, and place the new breast.
- After surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for up to a week; your team will be monitored for recovery.
- Your doctor will help you manage pain post-surgery. They may recommend prescription or over-the-counter pain medication.
- Follow your provider’s instructions carefully when taking medication.
How Long Does It Take to Recover After Breast Reconstruction?
The recovery time may vary based on:- Type of reconstruction
- Extent of surgery
- Overall well-being
- Other individual factors
Risks Involved
It is a safe procedure when done under professional guidance. However, like any other surgical procedure, risks of breast reconstruction include the following:- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Breasts that are a different size or shape
- Bruising or scarring around the reconstructed breasts
- Fat necrosis
- Wrinkling, rippling and ruptures (tears) in the implant
- Weakness, pain or sensitivity at the donor site after a flap reconstruction procedure
- Some implants may raise the risk of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a rare form of cancer
Breast Reconstruction Surgery Cost in Mumbai
The cost may vary based on the technique, hospital, and whether one or both breasts are reconstructed. Here is the average cost based on the types:| Type of Breast Reconstruction Surgery | Approximate Cost Range per Breast (₹) |
| DIEP flap | 4,00,000 – 7,00,000 |
| TRAM flap | 3,50,000 – 6,50,000 |
| Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap | 2,50,000 – 5,00,000 |
| IGAP flap | 4,00,000 – 7,50,000 |
| SGAP flap | 4,00,000 – 7,50,000 |
| PAP flap | 4,00,000 – 7,00,000 |
| TUG flap | 3,50,000 – 6,50,000 |
| SIEA/SIEP flap | 4,50,000 – 8,00,000 |
| Implant, under chest muscle (subpectoral) | 1,50,000 – 3,00,000 |
| Implant, above chest muscle (pre‑pectoral) | 1,75,000 – 3,25,000 |
| Implant with tissue expander (two‑stage procedure) | 2,50,000 – 4,50,000 |
Best Hospital for Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Mumbai | Asian Heart Institute
AHI is the leading hospital for breast cancer management and reconstruction, backed by experienced oncologists, plastic and oncological surgeons, advanced infrastructure, and NABH‑accredited facilities in Mumbai.Our team uses modern technology and evidence‑based protocols to improve success rates. Contact us today for compassionate 24/7 support and streamlined diagnostics that prioritise patient outcomes and comfort.
Onco Care Facilities at Asian Heart Institute
- Specialties and Advanced Technologies
- Holistic Patient Treatment
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Oncology
- Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards
- Diagnostic and Imaging Services
- Supportive and Palliative Care
FAQs
Q1: Is breast reconstruction a major surgery?A: Yes, it's considered major surgery because it involves operating on the chest and sometimes other body areas.
Q2: Do I need to wear a bra after breast reconstruction?
A: Yes. Your surgeon can recommend a soft, supportive post‑surgical bra for an appropriate time period. Follow their advice.
Q3: Can cancer grow in a reconstructed breast?
A: Yes, cancer grows in a reconstructed breast, but keep in mind that reconstruction itself does not increase the risk. Timely follow‑up and imaging remain crucial to detect any abnormal growth.
