Immediate vs. Delayed Reconstruction

When breast reconstruction is performed at the same time as your mastectomy, it is known as “immediate reconstruction.” When reconstruction is performed after you have healed from your mastectomy, it is referred to as “delayed reconstruction.” There are many factors that can determine which type of reconstruction is best for you, including the stage of your breast cancer, your medical condition, your lifestyle and preference, and any additional therapies that may be needed to treat your breast cancer.

There are both advantages of disadvantages to both immediate and delayed reconstruction, which should be discussed with your doctor before deciding on a procedure. These include:

Immediate Reconstruction

Advantages include

A decreased risk of social or emotional obstacles, due to avoiding being “flat”, may avoid fewer surgeries overall.

Disadvantages include

Longer surgery and recovery time. May require revision surgery to address mastectomy skin healing issues

Delayed Reconstruction

Advantages include

Allows patients option to complete breast cancer treatment prior to underdoing reconstruction; patients have more time to consider their breast reconstruction options.

Disadvantages include

May limit options for reconstruction; final cosmetic outcome of breast reconstruction may be compromised.

dana video

Dana's DIEP Flap Story

Martha video

Martha's DIEP Flap Story

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is performed to improve the appearance, shape, symmetry, and size of one or both of the breasts following mastectomy, lumpectomy, or congenital deformities. There are several different types of breast reconstruction procedures to choose from. You and your doctor can discuss which type is best for you based on your health and personal preferences. It is important to take the time to educate yourself on the different types of breast reconstruction procedures before making a final decision.

There are generally two categories of breast reconstruction procedures, including flap reconstruction and implant-based reconstruction. Flap reconstruction uses a patient’s own tissue from another area of the body to form a new breast or breasts, while implant reconstruction used breast implants to help form new breasts. There are also different options when it comes to when you would like your breast reconstruction performed following your mastectomy.

Banner media

Breast Reconstruction Procedures At Tucson Plastic Surgery

doctors talking to patient
statue of a naked woman's body

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Reconstruction?

Individuals who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, or are at a very high risk of developing breast cancer in the future, often undergo a mastectomy or a procedure in which one or both of the breasts are surgically removed. Following a mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an option to help rebuild your breast or breasts to improve your self-confidence or your sense of being “whole” again. The best way to determine if breast reconstruction at Tucson Plastic Surgery is a good option for you is to discuss it with your doctor. There are many factors that can determine whether this procedure is right for you, including your health, your personal preferences, your lifestyle, and more.

Breast Reconstruction Overview

Breast reconstruction is performed to restore the shape, symmetry, and size of one or both breasts following mastectomy or lumpectomy or to address congenital differences. With various reconstruction options available, your surgeon will help you choose the best method based on your health, goals, and personal preferences. It’s essential to understand the different types of breast reconstruction procedures to make an informed decision that aligns with your vision for recovery and restoration.

Dr. Kurtovic doing a breast consultation with patient
Breast Reconstruction Overview

Breast Reconstruction Overview

Breast reconstruction is performed to improve the appearance, shape, symmetry, and size of one or both of the breasts following mastectomy, lumpectomy, or congenital deformities.

three generations of women posing for a photo
DIEP Flap Reconstruction

DIEP Flap Reconstruction

The DIEP Flap is a microsurgical technique that uses your own abdominal tissue to recreate a natural breast shape after mastectomy. By transferring skin, fat, and blood vessels from the lower abdomen, this autologous approach results in a soft, warm breast mound without implants. This option is ideal for those seeking a natural look and feel and can be especially beneficial for patients who have experienced radiation damage or implant-related complications.

two women embracing
Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

Natural tissue flap reconstruction utilizes tissue from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or glutes when there’s insufficient chest tissue for implant support due to mastectomy or radiation. This approach provides a living, durable solution for those desiring a more natural reconstruction.

woman with curly hair wearing a black bikini
Breast Implant Reconstruction

Breast Implant Reconstruction

Breast implant reconstruction restores breast shape and symmetry using saline or silicone implants. Our surgeons personalize each procedure to achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results.

two women outside talking and laughing
Oncoplastic Reconstruction

Oncoplastic Reconstruction

Oncoplastic reconstruction combines cancer removal with breast reconstruction to enhance physical and emotional recovery. The procedure is performed at the same time as lumpectomy, and is designed to optimize the breast appearance after the cancerous tissue is removed, promoting both healing and peace of mind. Most often the reconstruction consists of a breast reduction or lift closure. The best candidates for this procedure are those with larger breasts and small tumors.

woman with a child on her back
Genetic Mutations

Genetic Mutations

BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 are genes associated with increased lifetime risk of developing cancer, particularly breast and ovarian cancers. Knowing your genetic background can help you make an informed decision regarding options for breast reconstruction after preventive mastectomy.

woman on beach smiling
Effects of Breast Radiation

Effects of Breast Radiation

Radiation therapy, often used post-lumpectomy or mastectomy, employs high-energy particles to target cancer cells. Two main types, external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy, may affect reconstruction outcomes, so treatment is carefully coordinated to support long-term success. The effects of radiation evolve over time, and can result in distortion of breast shape and asymmetry, which may require additional surgery for correction of these issues.

mother and daughter running and smiling at the beach
Revision Breast Reconstruction

Revision Breast Reconstruction

Revision surgery is available for those seeking to improve results from a previous reconstruction. Whether to improve aesthetic outcomes or address complications from prior procedures, revision can help you achieve a more comfortable, satisfying result. Patients with an implant reconstruction or those who have had radiation are most affected by issues over time which may require surgical revision.

woman at the beach smiling
Symmetry Procedures

Symmetry Procedures

Symmetry procedures correct differences in breast size and shape that may occur post-surgery, particularly after a single mastectomy or post radiation. These adjustments help create balanced, harmonious results for improved body confidence.

man outside smiling
Male Breast Cancer

Male Breast Cancer

Though breast cancer is rare in men, early diagnosis provides the best chance for effective treatment. Male breast reconstruction options offer solutions to restore a natural appearance and support emotional recovery.

older woman in a lake
Nipple Reconstruction

Nipple Reconstruction

For patients who have lost one or both nipples to mastectomy, nipple reconstruction surgery is an option to restore a natural breast appearance. Typically performed 3–4 months after initial reconstruction, this procedure enhances the look of the breast.

older couple walking along the beach
3D Nipple Tattoo

3D Nipple Tattoo

3D nipple tattooing creates realistic nipple and areola appearances on reconstructed breasts. This technique allows patients to avoid additional surgeries, promotes faster healing, and achieves a natural, detailed look.

Reviews

You could not dream of a better team than Tucson Plastic Surgery. From the minute you walk in the door, every person you encounter is compassionate and welcoming. For going thro...

— CC

You could not dream of a better team than Tucson Plastic Surgery. From the minute you walk in the door, every person you encounter is compassionate and welcoming. For going through such a scary process, they were patient, informative, and made it so much easier to digest. It truly feels like you have a team fighting for your health and advocating for your well being. Both Dr. Kurtovic and Dr. Mahabir are caring, confident, and masters of their craft. Doctors and nurses alike were there at the drop of a hat for any issues that arose post-op, and were always more than happy to take calls/emails and reassure me. I felt extremely taken care of and cannot recommend them enough. Bonus: their advocacy efforts are commendable and the office is gorgeous! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The office is beautiful and the staff were very welcoming. I felt instantly at ease with Dr. Mahabir. He listened carefully to my concerns and answered all of my questions. My s...

— DP

The office is beautiful and the staff were very welcoming. I felt instantly at ease with Dr. Mahabir. He listened carefully to my concerns and answered all of my questions. My surgery results were better than I would ever expected. I highly recommend Tucson Plastic Surgery.

I cannot say enough about the level of care and concern from the team at this facility. They were all so kind and patient as they helped me achieve the results I wanted post mas...

— JM

I cannot say enough about the level of care and concern from the team at this facility. They were all so kind and patient as they helped me achieve the results I wanted post mastectomy. They made the experience so much less traumatic then I had anticipated. I was stunned at how amazing I looked post surgery. I would HIGHLY recommend both doctors! They are amazing!

I had the pleasure of working with both Dr. Kurtovic and Dr. Mahabir for my mastectomy to implant reconstruction and revision with fat grafting. I cannot say enough about Dr. Ku...

— KP

I had the pleasure of working with both Dr. Kurtovic and Dr. Mahabir for my mastectomy to implant reconstruction and revision with fat grafting. I cannot say enough about Dr. Kurtovic and Dr. Mahabir along with Virgina and the rest of the Tucson Plastic Surgery staff during what was certainly a fast and frightening year of my life. Both surgeons and staff were so positive, reassuring and compassionate from the minute I walked in for my first consultation. Dr. Kurtovic and Dr. Mahabir put my nerves at ease with their warm care and attention to detail in every aspect of their practice. I was lucky to have both surgeons of this amazing practice be the lead surgeon of my two procedures. I am so thankful to Tucson Plastic Surgery and the work they do. I am extremely happy with the results, and I can safely say with the help, support and guidance of Dr. Kurtovic, Dr Mahabir and Tucson Plastic Surgery, I’m ready for the next year and to be on the other side. I cannot thank you enough for your care and gratitude.

Met with Dr. Mahabir to discuss reconstruction options. Walking into his lobby, my husband and I immediately found comfort as the area is inviting and beautifully designed!! The...

— MR

Met with Dr. Mahabir to discuss reconstruction options. Walking into his lobby, my husband and I immediately found comfort as the area is inviting and beautifully designed!! The rooms are just as beautiful and tranquil. I loved his confidence and his knowledge in breast reconstruction. He gave me my options and we selected 2! Double mastectomy with immediate reconstruction (implants), once I finish chemo, we'll go back in for my final surgery (DIEP flap). Dr. Mahabir was professional, kind and compassionate which is what you want from your surgeon! His staff were also very welcoming and kind. I highly recommend Dr. Mahabir for your reconstruction needs!!

What an amazing surgeon and staff. Dr Mahabir and Nicole Baca were awesome!! My experience with a breast reduction/reconstruction due to breast cancer 17 years ago was perfectio...

— KL

What an amazing surgeon and staff. Dr Mahabir and Nicole Baca were awesome!! My experience with a breast reduction/reconstruction due to breast cancer 17 years ago was perfection. I'm so happy with the results and I'm just 6 weeks out. Did a Tummy Tuck for fun and can't wait to see final results in a few months. Fabulous all the way around from scheduling, to surgery to post op visits. Worth the 5 hour round trip drive from N Scottsdale to Tucson. Thank you...happy beyond words!

Both Dr. Mahabir and Dr. Kurtovic are health care providers who care for patients with dignity, and quality care. My mom was Dr Mahabir's patient, and she was treated with respe...

— AS

Both Dr. Mahabir and Dr. Kurtovic are health care providers who care for patients with dignity, and quality care. My mom was Dr Mahabir's patient, and she was treated with respect, humility and patience as we were trying to understand reconstructive surgery after my mom's breast cancer diagnosis. I am in deep appreciation for Dr. Mahabir and the care he provided to my mom; he practiced active listening, and treated both of us as human beings (something you rarely see in the health care system; especially, managing a cancer diagnosis). All staff at Tucson Plastic Surgery, since the moment you walk in are attentive to patients' needs. Both my mom and I felt welcomed and in positive spirits as soon we walked into Tucson Plastic Surgery's space. I am specially grateful for Virginia Van, Patient Care Coordinator at Tucson Plastic Surgery for always answering our questions promptly, and making sure we fully understood everything regarding my mom's care pre and post surgery. After the cancer diagnosis, every visit with Dr. Mahabir became a positive experience, and a break from the myriad of testing and doctor visits my mom and I had to attend. Tucson Plastic Surgery created a space for my mom and I to find relief and look forward to a life after cancer. Thank you for all your work!

Highly recommend Dr. Mahabir and his team! He listens well, is excellent at what he does and overall my experience was nothing but positive.

— IH

Highly recommend Dr. Mahabir and his team! He listens well, is excellent at what he does and overall my experience was nothing but positive.

Tucson plastic surgery has been so kind to me. From the ladies at the front desk to the surgeons. I felt extremely comfortable around them all. Very professional.

— TR

Tucson plastic surgery has been so kind to me. From the ladies at the front desk to the surgeons. I felt extremely comfortable around them all. Very professional.

I saw Dr. Mahabir for reconstruction surgery after a double mastectomy. His skills are unsurpassed-- I couldn't be happier. His staff is also fantastic: warm, welcoming, knowled...

— SL

I saw Dr. Mahabir for reconstruction surgery after a double mastectomy. His skills are unsurpassed-- I couldn't be happier. His staff is also fantastic: warm, welcoming, knowledgeable. Ten stars.

Nothing but good things! Dr. Mahabir and his staff have been wonderful throughout my surgeries and recovery. I had a preventative double mastectomy and immediate reconstruction ...

— JC

Nothing but good things! Dr. Mahabir and his staff have been wonderful throughout my surgeries and recovery. I had a preventative double mastectomy and immediate reconstruction in June and just this week had an implant exchange. The pre-care and after care has been nothing short of excellent!

I won’t have enough room to say everything good I have to say. Dr Mahabir changed my life. I have lived with neck and upper back pain for over 20 years. It’s gone no...

— DL

I won’t have enough room to say everything good I have to say. Dr Mahabir changed my life. I have lived with neck and upper back pain for over 20 years. It’s gone now. Gone. Thanks to not taking advil for the pain my GERD is gone now too. As a side benefit one of the supplements I was given for better surgery outcomes has virtually eliminated my post nasal drip due to allergies. There is virtually no scars tissue from the procedure. The only thing left after three months are red lines. Much less than I was told to expect. On my skin these red lines will be gone on less than a year. My only regret is that is did not do this procedure sooner. This office is so professional. Staff answer calls immediately. I never felt like I couldn’t call and get answers to questions or concerns. The recovery was a breeze and I did listen to Dr M when he told me not to over do things because I felt so great. I followed directions with great care and had an incredible outcome. Dr M has a detailed preparation and post op protocol. He really knows what he is doing.

Contact us media

© Tucson Plastic Surgery. All Rights Reserved.

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (520) 448-9490.
Contact Us