Surviving breast cancer is a remarkable achievement, but the journey often leaves physical and emotional scars. If you’ve undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy, you may feel incomplete, struggling with changes to your body and identity. Breast reconstruction surgery in Gurgaon offers hope – a chance to restore your feminine silhouette, regain confidence, and reclaim a sense of wholeness after cancer treatment.

Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh, Head of Plastic Surgery at Artemis Hospital, specialises in compassionate, expert breast reconstruction after cancer. With over 17 years of M.Ch-trained experience, he understands both the physical and emotional aspects of reconstruction, helping breast cancer survivors rebuild their bodies and confidence.

Ready to explore your reconstruction options? Book now or call +91 82879 23924 for a sensitive, supportive consultation.

Understanding Breast Reconstruction After Cancer

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is plastic surgery that rebuilds the breast shape after mastectomy (complete breast removal) or lumpectomy (partial breast removal) for cancer treatment. The goal is to create a breast that resembles your natural breast in shape, size, and appearance.

Why Consider Reconstruction?

Physical Restoration:

• Recreates breast mound and contour
• Restores body symmetry and balance
• Eliminates the need for an external prosthesis
• Natural appearance in clothing

Emotional Healing:

• Sense of wholeness and completeness
• Restored feminine identity
• Enhanced self-confidence
• Improved body image
• Psychological closure after a cancer journey

Quality of Life:

• Freedom in clothing choices
• Comfort in intimate situations
• No external prosthesis needed
• Feel more like yourself again
• Move forward with confidence

Who Can Have Reconstruction?

You may be a candidate if:

• Completed or completing cancer treatment
• Cancer-free or controlled
• Overall good health
• Realistic expectations
• Desire to restore breast appearance
• Ready emotionally and physically

Important: Dr. Singh works closely with your oncologist to ensure reconstruction timing is appropriate for your specific cancer treatment plan.

Types of Breast Reconstruction

Implant-Based Reconstruction

Most Common Approach:

• Uses silicone or saline breast implants
• Typically requires a tissue expander first
• Two-stage procedure usually
• Shorter recovery than flap surgery

Tissue Expander Process:

First Stage (During or After Mastectomy):

• A tissue expander placed under the chest muscle
• Creates a pocket for future implant
• Gradually inflated with saline over weeks/months
• Stretches skin and muscle

Second Stage (3-6 Months Later):

• Expander removed
• Permanent implant inserted
• Final breast shape created
• Nipple reconstruction, if desired

Advantages:

• Shorter initial surgery time
• No additional scarring on the body
• Faster recovery than flap surgery
• Suitable for many patients

Considerations:

• Multiple surgeries required
• Regular expansion appointments are needed
• May not feel as natural as own tissue
• Potential implant-related complications
• May need replacement over time

Autologous Tissue Reconstruction (Using Your Own Tissue)

DIEP Flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator):

• Tissue from the lower abdomen
• Skin, fat, and blood vessels are used
• Muscle left intact (unlike TRAM)
• “Tummy tuck” benefit
• Most popular flap option

Advantages:

• Natural look and feel
• Soft, warm tissue
• Ages naturally with your body
• One-time surgery (no implant replacement)
• Simultaneous abdomen contouring

Considerations:

• Longer surgery (6-8 hours)
• Longer hospital stay (3-5 days)
• More extensive recovery
• Requires microsurgery expertise
• Abdominal scarring

Other Flap Options:

Latissimus Dorsi Flap:

• Tissue from the upper back
• Often combined with an implant
• Suitable when the abdomen is not available
• Reliable blood supply

TRAM Flap (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous):

• Abdomen tissue with muscle
• More traditional technique
• Longer recovery than DIEP
• Potential abdominal weakness

TUG/GAP Flaps:

• Tissue from the thigh or buttock
• When the abdomen/back is not suitable
• Less commonly used

Choosing Between Implants and Own Tissue

Consider Implants If:

• Prefer shorter surgery and recovery
• Limited donor tissue available
• Want to avoid additional body scars
• Not suitable for lengthy surgery

Consider Own Tissue If:

• Want the most natural result
• Have adequate donor tissue (abdomen)
• Prefer a one-time permanent solution
• Willing to undergo a longer surgery
• Don’t want foreign material in the body

Dr. Singh Will Help You Decide Based On:

• Your body type and tissue availability
• Overall health and medical history
• Cancer treatment details
• Personal preferences
• Lifestyle and activities
• Realistic expectations

Timing: Immediate vs Delayed Reconstruction

Immediate Reconstruction

What It Means:

• Performed during mastectomy surgery
• The breast mound reconstructed right away
• Wake up with a breast shape present

Advantages:

• One fewer surgery
• Combined recovery period
• Never experience a flat chest
• Better psychological adjustment
• Skin-sparing possible

Considerations:

• Requires coordination between the surgical oncologist and the plastic surgeon
• Slightly longer mastectomy surgery
• Not suitable for all cancer cases
• May delay cancer treatment if complications

Delayed Reconstruction

What It Means:

• Performed months or years after mastectomy
• Allows cancer treatment completion first
• Time to consider options carefully

Advantages:

• Focus entirely on cancer treatment first
• More time to research and decide
• Can pursue after completing chemotherapy/radiation
• Suitable for any timeframe after mastectomy

Considerations:

• Additional surgery after already having a mastectomy
• Experience period without breast
• More scarring to work with
• Skin quality may be affected by radiation

Which is Right for You?

Depends on:

• Cancer stage and treatment plan
• Need for radiation therapy
• Overall health status
• Personal preference
• Coordination with the oncology team

Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh coordinates with your cancer treatment team to recommend optimal timing for your situation.

Call +91 82879 23924 to discuss reconstruction timing options.

The Reconstruction Journey

Initial Consultation

Discussion Topics:

• Cancer treatment details and timeline
• Reconstruction options suitable for you
• Timing (immediate or delayed)
• Realistic expectations and goals
• Risks, benefits, and alternatives
• Recovery process
• Cost and insurance coverage

Comprehensive Assessment:

• Physical examination
• Review of mastectomy details
• Evaluation of the chest wall and skin
• Assessment of general health
• Discussion of donor sites if flap reconstruction
• Coordination with the oncology team

The Procedure

Duration:

• Implant/expander placement: 1-2 hours
• Flap reconstruction: 6-8 hours
• Varies by complexity

Hospital Stay:

• Implant: Usually overnight
• Flap surgery: 3-5 days typically
• Monitoring and pain management
• Drain care teaching

Recovery:

• Initial healing: 2-4 weeks
• Return to normal activities: 6-8 weeks
• Full recovery: 3-6 months
• Follow-up surgeries: Staged as needed

Additional Procedures

Nipple and Areola Reconstruction:

• Performed 3-4 months after initial reconstruction
• Local flap or skin graft techniques
• Tattooing for natural colour
• Optional, but completes the appearance

Symmetry Procedures:

• Adjusting the opposite breast to match the reconstructed side
• May include lift, reduction, or augmentation
• Ensures balanced appearance
• Usually covered by insurance

Revision Surgeries:

• Fine-tuning shape and appearance
• Scar revision if needed
• Adjustments for optimal results
• Part of the reconstruction journey

Benefits and Emotional Impact

Physical Restoration

Recreated Breast Contour:

• Natural-looking breast mound
• Symmetrical chest appearance
• Proportionate to the body frame
• Clothing fits normally

Practical Advantages:

• No external prosthesis needed
• Natural movement and position
• Better body balance
• Freedom in clothing choices

Emotional Healing

Sense of Wholeness:

• Feel complete again
• Restored body image
• Feminine identity reclaimed
• Closure after cancer journey

Psychological Benefits:

• Improved self-confidence
• Enhanced quality of life
• Better intimate relationships
• Reduced anxiety about appearance
• Empowerment and control

Moving Forward:

• Focus on living, not surviving
• Confidence in social situations
• Freedom from constant reminder of cancer
• Ability to move forward positively

Why Choose Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh?

Specialised Expertise

Qualifications:

• M.Ch in Plastic Surgery
• Fellowship in Advanced Aesthetic Surgery from St Louis Hospital, Paris
• 17+ years of experience
• Head of Plastic Surgery, Artemis Hospital
• Trained in reconstructive techniques

Comprehensive Skills:

• Both implant and flap reconstruction
• Immediate and delayed procedures
• Symmetry surgeries
• Nipple reconstruction
• Revision surgeries

Compassionate Approach

Understanding Your Journey:

• Sensitivity to emotional aspects
• Recognition of what you’ve been through
• Supportive, caring environment
• Patient-centered care

Collaborative Care:

• Works closely with your oncology team
• Coordinates timing appropriately
• Considers your overall treatment plan
• Ensures safe, appropriate reconstruction

Premier Facility

Artemis Hospital:

• Advanced surgical facilities
• Microsurgery capabilities for flap procedures
• Experienced support team
• Comprehensive post-operative care
• International safety standards

Book now for a compassionate reconstruction consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long after a mastectomy can I have reconstruction?

You can have reconstruction immediately during mastectomy or delay it for months or even years afterwards. There’s no time limit – reconstruction is possible 5, 10, or 20+ years after mastectomy if you choose. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh evaluates your individual situation to recommend optimal timing based on your cancer treatment, health status, and personal readiness.

2. Will reconstruction interfere with cancer detection?

No, properly performed reconstruction doesn’t interfere with detecting cancer recurrence. Regular surveillance, including clinical exams, imaging when needed, and self-examination, can still be done. MRI and ultrasound effectively monitor reconstructed breasts. Your oncology team continues normal surveillance protocols. Reconstruction doesn’t hide or mask potential recurrence.

3. Is breast reconstruction covered by insurance in India?

Many insurance policies cover post-cancer breast reconstruction as it’s considered medically necessary, not cosmetic. Coverage varies by provider and policy. Documentation from the oncologist about the mastectomy is usually required. Dr. Singh’s team helps with insurance paperwork and claims. Check your specific policy and discuss with the team for guidance.

4. Will a reconstructed breast feel natural?

Sensation varies. Implant reconstruction provides shape and appearance, but less natural feel. Autologous tissue (your own fat/skin) typically feels more natural – soft, warm, and similar to natural breast. Some nerve sensation may return over months/years, but it won’t fully restore the original sensation. Most women feel the benefit of appearance outweighs sensation changes.

5. Can I have reconstruction if I had radiation therapy?

Yes, though radiation complicates reconstruction. Irradiated tissue has reduced blood supply and elasticity. Implant reconstruction has higher complication rates in irradiated tissue. Autologous tissue reconstruction (using your own tissue) generally provides better outcomes after radiation. Dr. Singh assesses your specific situation and recommends the safest, most effective approach for your case.

6. What if I only had a lumpectomy, not a mastectomy?

Oncoplastic reconstruction techniques can restore breast shape after lumpectomy. Options include fat grafting, tissue rearrangement, or reduction/lift on both breasts for symmetry. Smaller scale than mastectomy reconstruction, but important for appearance. Dr. Singh specialises in these procedures to optimise cosmetic outcomes while ensuring complete cancer removal.

Begin Your Reconstruction Journey

Breast cancer has challenged you in ways most people cannot imagine. You’ve fought courageously and survived. Now, breast reconstruction surgery in Gurgaon offers an opportunity to reclaim your body, restore your confidence, and move forward with renewed hope.

Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh combines surgical expertise with genuine compassion to help cancer survivors rebuild their breasts and their lives. With M.Ch training, 17+ years of experience, and a deep understanding of reconstruction’s emotional significance, he provides comprehensive care throughout your journey.

Schedule Your Consultation

Location: Artemis Hospital, Sector 51, Gurugram, Haryana 122001

Contact: +91 82879 23924

Serving: Gurgaon, South Delhi, Noida, Faridabad, and the entire Delhi NCR

Book now to discuss your breast reconstruction options with Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh.

You survived cancer. Now restore your wholeness. Trust Dr. Pradeep Kumar Singh for compassionate, expert breast reconstruction that honours your journey and celebrates your future.