Breast reconstruction after mastectomy - Luna Clinic Wrocław
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Plastic surgery · Body plastic surgery · Wrocław

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy in Wrocław

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy recreates the shape and volume of a breast removed because of cancer or as a preventive measure. We use implants, your own fat (lipofilling) or combined techniques, always taking previous cancer treatment into account and working with your treating doctor. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław reconstruction is planned and performed by Dr Aleksandra Łuniewska.

Anaesthesiageneral

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy recreates the shape and volume of a breast removed because of cancer or as a preventive measure. We use implants, your own fat (lipofilling) or combined techniques, always taking previous cancer treatment into account and working with your treating doctor. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław reconstruction is planned and performed by Dr Aleksandra Łuniewska.

01
About the treatment

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy - what does the procedure involve?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure aimed at recreating the natural shape of the breast after mastectomy, injury or other pathological changes. Depending on the patient’s needs, the procedure may involve the use of the person’s own tissue, implants or combined techniques. Breast reconstruction not only restores the harmonious proportions of the figure but also plays a key role in improving well-being, self-confidence and quality of life after oncological treatment or corrective operations.

Reconstruction is often a staged process: recreating volume (expander/implant or fat grafts), symmetrising the other breast, and reconstructing the nipple and areola. We plan each stage at a safe interval from the oncological treatment - reconstruction does not increase the risk of disease recurrence or hinder oncological monitoring.

02
Indications

Indications for the procedure

Whether the procedure is advisable for you is ultimately decided by the doctor during the consultation.

  • Overly large breasts causing back, neck and shoulder pain
  • Chronic irritation and inflammation in the inframammary fold
  • Difficulties with playing sports and wearing clothing
  • Breast asymmetry
  • Psychological discomfort related to the size of the bust
03

Contraindications

Pregnancy and the breastfeeding period
Uncompensated chronic diseases (e.g. diabetes, heart disease)
A tendency to thromboembolic complications
Blood clotting disorders
Inadequate expectations regarding the result of the procedure
04
Preparation

How to prepare for the procedure?

The procedure is always preceded by a qualification consultation with a plastic surgeon - we discuss expectations, examine the area to be operated on and establish an individual treatment plan. As standard, we order a full set of tests (blood count, coagulation, electrolytes, ECG for general anaesthesia) and, if necessary, additional specialist consultations.

  • Consultation with a plastic surgeon
  • Performing laboratory tests: blood count, coagulation, electrolytes, ECG
  • Stopping blood-thinning medications and NSAIDs at least 7 days before the procedure
  • Avoiding smoking and alcohol at least 2 weeks before the operation
  • On the day of the procedure - no make-up, lotions or perfume in the chest area
05

The breast reconstruction procedure step by step

1Consultation and choice of methodwe discuss the course of the oncological treatment (radiotherapy matters for the choice of technique) and the patient’s expectations; we establish a plan of stages.
2Anaesthesia generalthe operation time depends on the method: from 1.5 hours (replacing an expander with an implant) to several hours.
3Recreating the breast volumeinsertion of an expander/implant under the pectoral muscle or serial lipofilling with the person’s own tissue - according to the plan.
4Symmetrisation of the other breastin the next stage the other breast may be lifted, reduced or enlarged for full symmetry.
5Reconstruction of the nipple and areolathe final stage - creating the nipple from local flaps and medical pigmentation of the areola.
06
Recovery

Recovery and post-procedure recommendations

  • Wearing a compression bra for at least 6 weeks
  • Limiting physical activity for about 4-6 weeks
  • No sun exposure of the scars for 6 months
  • After 3-4 weeks - introduction of scar massage and healing-support products (as recommended)
  • Check-ups: after 7-14 days, then after 1, 3, 6 and 12 months
  • The sutures are most often dissolvable
07

Treatment effects

The result of breast reconstruction after mastectomy is a recreated, symmetrical bust with a natural shape - indistinguishable from a natural one in clothing and underwear. For many patients it is the closure of the treatment process and the recovery of a sense of femininity and psychological comfort.

general
Anaesthesia
08

Possible complications and risks

Like any surgical procedure, this one also carries a certain risk. It is reduced by careful qualification before the procedure and by following the aftercare recommendations. Possible complications include:

  • Haematoma or bleeding requiring drainage
  • Infection requiring antibiotic therapy
  • Temporary or rarely permanent sensory disturbances in the operated area
  • Hypertrophic or discoloured scars
  • Asymmetry requiring correction
  • Longer-lasting swelling or bruising
  • An unsatisfactory aesthetic result requiring possible re-operation
09

Frequently asked questions

Is the procedure painful?

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. After the operation we administer painkillers - most patients do not feel strong pain.

Will I be able to breastfeed after the procedure?

The ability to breastfeed may be limited, but in many patients it is preserved - it depends on the technique and the amount of tissue removed.

When will I return to work?

To office work - after 10-14 days. To physical work - usually after 4-6 weeks.

Is the result of the procedure permanent?

Yes, provided the weight is stable and there are no hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy).

Is a post-operative bra necessary?

Yes, for a minimum of 6 weeks - wearing it significantly affects the aesthetic result and the healing process

Can the procedure deepen asymmetry?

No, quite the opposite - during the operation we aim to even out the breasts as much as possible.

Is the procedure safe?

Yes, if the patient is well qualified and follows the post-operative recommendations. At Luna Clinic the procedure is performed in line with safety standards.

When can breast reconstruction after mastectomy be performed?

Delayed reconstruction is usually planned after the completion of oncological treatment (chemo-/radiotherapy), in consultation with the oncologist - most often 6-12 months after it ends.

Does reconstruction make it harder to detect a possible recurrence?

No - oncological monitoring (clinical examination, ultrasound, MRI) remains fully possible. Reconstruction also does not increase the risk of disease recurrence.

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy in Wrocław: how much does it cost?

Breast reconstruction is quoted individually because the extent and number of stages differ for every patient. We quote for the whole plan after the surgical consultation (PLN 300).

Is it covered by the NFZ (Polish public health insurance)?

Luna Clinic treats patients privately. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy for cancer is funded by the NFZ (Polish public health insurance) in contracted hospitals, usually oncology centres and plastic surgery departments. Many patients choose private treatment for the timing or the choice of technique.

Dr Aleksandra Łuniewska - plastic surgery specialist
Performed by

Dr Aleksandra Łuniewska

Dr Aleksandra Łuniewska - a plastic surgery specialist with over 17 years of experience, founder and chief surgeon of Luna Clinic. A member of the Polish Society of Plastic Surgery, she completed her specialist training in Gdańsk and Wrocław. Her philosophy is based on natural and harmonious results that emphasise the patient’s individual beauty.

First step

Take the first step

Book a consultation - an honest conversation about expectations, possibilities and the treatment plan.

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy: price and consultation

Breast reconstruction is quoted individually at Luna Clinic. The plan depends on the type of mastectomy, radiotherapy, the condition of the skin and tissues and whether one or both breasts are reconstructed. Reconstruction is often done in stages (for example an implant, then fat grafting and nipple reconstruction), so we quote for the whole treatment plan after the surgical consultation (PLN 300).

How to book

Call +48 666 850 666 (Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00) or send the consultation form. All prices: Luna Clinic price list.

Where we are

Luna Clinic, ul. Władysława Syrokomli 46, 51-141 Wrocław, Poland - in the Karłowice area of the Psie Pole district. There is parking for patients by the clinic. Directions and map