Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Sydney

Breast Reconstruction

Breast Reconstruction is a surgery which aims to restore and recreate the shape of a natural breast. It is a physically and mentally rewarding procedure for women who have lost their breast due to a medical condition. This procedure is mainly performed by a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who is highly trained in reconstructive and aesthetic procedures. 

Breast Reconstruction can be performed either as an immediate or a delayed procedure. Both procedures can be performed using prosthetic or autologous tissue flaps. Breast reconstruction with autologous tissue flaps, usually obtained from the abdomen remains as the gold standard procedure as it creates more natural looking breasts with higher women’s satisfaction rate. It also provides long-lasting results. However, many other factors which include clinical factors and patients’ personal preference will determine the choice of surgery performed. A personalized consultation with Dr Frank Hsieh is required to identify the type of surgery which would best meet your needs.

Making an Informed Decision

During your personalized consultation with Dr Frank Hsieh, all the risks relating to your surgery will be disclosed and you will be informed of what to expect during and after the procedure.  An informed financial consent detailing the surgeon, hospital and anesthetist fees will be provided before you are booked for the procedure.

General Risks and Complications

Even with a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, breast reconstruction, like any surgical procedure, can be associated with potential risks. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with the procedure to make an informed decision on the procedure. Choosing an experienced, qualified and highly trained reconstructive surgeon will minimize the risk and complications.

General Risks:

  • Infection from surgical wounds which may require additional antibiotics
  • Excessive blood loss requiring blood transfusion
  • Development of a collection of blood outside blood vessels, resembling a bruise, known as a haematoma which may require drainage, or additional operation.
  • Difference is size and shape of breast or breasts asymmetry.
  • Seroma or fluid collection around the operation site
  • Slow healing wound. All patients are asked to cease smoking prior and after the surgery as smoking can significantly delay wound healing.
  • Temporary loss of full arm movement on the side of reconstructed breast due to movement restriction
  • Risk in relation to the use of anesthesia.
  • Allergic reactions to dressings, medication, sutures.

Implant Related Complications

  • Capsular contracture, due to scar formation around the implants, resulting in painful, hardening of the breasts
  • Implant rupture
  • Leakage of implant
  • Movements of an implant from its original position
  • Development of a rare cancer of the immune system, known as breast-implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) has been associated with women with breast implants.
  • Changes in breast sensation

Flap Related Complications

  • Weakening of abdominal muscle
  • Abdominal hernia
  • Full or partial tissue necrosis or loss of autologous tissue flap.

Factors Influencing Breast Reconstruction Risks:

It is important to choose a surgeon who is highly experienced in microsurgery reconstruction procedures and who is fully endorsed by the Australasian Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASPS).

The aftercare management and patient’s medical background are also important determinants of the procedure’s success. Patients will be prescribed a detailed personalized aftercare management plan to optimise the healing process. Patients are strongly advised to cease smoking before and after the operation as it could significantly impact on the surgical outcome.

Next Step:

Request a consultation with Dr Hsieh for a detailed discussion of the risk and type of procedure which is most suited for  you. During the consultation. Dr. Hsieh will run through your risk assessment and suggest ways to minimize them. We are here to help you make an informed decision. 

Explore Before and After cases from Dr. Hsieh’s breast reconstruction here. Make informed decisions about plastic surgery, considering general and specific risks and complications. Learn about breast implant and flap-related risks, ensuring a thorough risk assessment during a consultation with Dr. Hsieh.

Take the next step in your breast reconstruction journey. Request a consultation with Dr. Hsieh for personalized risk assessment and support in decision-making.

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