Silicone Breast for Mastectomy

The implant is a medical device with a silicone shell and silicone gel filling. It may be placed behind the chest muscle or in another planned position, depending on the tissues, skin, anatomy, and surgical approach. Some people have an implant placed directly; others first receive a tissue expander to create space gradually.

Reconstruction is separate from treating the cancer itself. The breast surgeon and reconstructive surgeon consider the mastectomy plan, any planned radiotherapy, skin condition, body shape, and personal preferences. A lumpectomy is a different operation that removes a tumour while preserving more breast tissue and is not suitable for every diagnosis.

Ask for a clear discussion of immediate versus delayed reconstruction, implant position, expected shape and feel, scars, recovery, and possible future procedures. Tell the team about previous operations, medicines, smoking, allergies, and any planned cancer treatment. Bring questions about how radiotherapy could affect reconstructed tissue and whether another reconstructive method may fit better.

After surgery, follow wound-care and activity instructions, attend scheduled reviews, and report changes early. Follow-up helps the team assess healing and the implant over time. Lymphoedema therapy may be offered when swelling affects the arm or chest after breast cancer treatment.

Contact the surgical team promptly for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, worsening pain, wound opening, or a sudden change in breast shape. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, or rapidly spreading swelling. Do not wait for a routine review when a wound or general condition is deteriorating.

Am I a candidate for immediate or delayed implant reconstruction? How might radiotherapy affect the plan? Would an expander or tissue-based reconstruction be more suitable? What changes should I expect during healing, and which symptoms require a same-day call?