Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in India. While advances in early detection and treatment have significantly improved survival rates, many women are left facing not only emotional challenges but also physical changes after a mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts).
For many survivors, breast reconstruction using implants is a powerful step toward healing both physically and emotionally. It can help restore confidence, body image, and a sense of normalcy.
This blog will guide you through the most important aspects of breast reconstruction with implants in India: what it involves, who it’s for, your options, and how to choose the right plastic surgeon.
Why Choose Breast Implants for Reconstruction?
One of the most common questions women ask after a mastectomy is, “Will my breast ever look and feel normal again?” Modern breast implants offer a realistic and natural appearance, helping many women regain a sense of normalcy.
Implants can be made of silicone gel (soft and natural-feeling) or saline (filled with sterile saltwater). Both are approved and widely used in India. Depending on your body type, medical history, and personal preference, your plastic surgeon will guide you in selecting the right type and size of implant.
The biggest advantage of implant-based reconstruction is that it’s less complex than flap surgery, meaning fewer incisions, a shorter operating time, and a faster recovery. It’s particularly suited for women who prefer a more straightforward process or who do not have enough donor tissue on their body for flap-based reconstruction.
Types of Breast Implants Used for Breast Reconstruction
- Saline Implants: These have a silicone shell filled with sterile saline (saltwater). One benefit is that they can be adjusted after surgery by adding or removing saline to reach the desired size and symmetry. However, some women feel saline implants are less natural than silicone implants.
- Silicone Implants: These consist of a silicone shell filled with cohesive silicone gel. Compared to saline implants, they often provide a more natural look and feel closely mimicking the texture of real breast tissue.
- Structured Implants: These combine the advantages of saline and silicone implants. They contain a saline-filled inner structure or chamber encased by silicone gel. The goal is to create a more natural feel while retaining the adjustability of saline implants.
- Gummy Bear Breast Implants: Also known as cohesive gel implants, these are less commonly known in India and less frequently chosen due to the higher breast reconstruction surgery cost. These are filled with a highly cohesive silicone gel that maintains its shape even if the shell is damaged. This form-stable design reduces the possibility of leaks and offers a more defined contour.
Things to Consider for Choosing Breast Implants
- Body Type and Way of Life: The patient’s body type and lifestyle should be considered while selecting a breast implant. The most appropriate kind of implant can be determined by factors such as health, activity level, height, weight, and other measurements of the body.
- Tolerance for Risk: Each type of breast implant carries its own set of dangers. Patients must address potential complications with their surgeon, such as implant rupture, leakage, and displacement, to make an informed decision based on their risk tolerance.
- Reconstruction Timeline: The type of implant utilised can be influenced by the time of breast reconstruction. Immediate reconstruction entails implant insertion during the mastectomy process, whereas delayed reconstruction allows for recovery before implant placement.
- Considerations for Mammograms: Regular mammograms are critical for breast health. Patients who have breast implants should notify their mammography technicians since additional views and procedures may be required for accurate screening.
The Surgical Method of Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction with implants usually consists of many stages. Here are the stages of the procedure for implantation of breasts:
Tissue Expander Positioning
During mastectomy, a tissue expander is frequently implanted beneath the chest muscle or skin. To expand the tissues and provide room for the permanent implant, this inflatable device is gradually filled with saline.
Exchange for Permanent Implant
Once the desired size and shape are reached, the tissue expander is removed and replaced with the permanent breast implant of choice. This second operation after the first step is usually less complicated and shorter than the initial breast reconstruction process.
Immediate vs. Delayed Breast Reconstruction: What’s the Right Time?
Immediate Reconstruction
- Done during the same surgery as the mastectomy
- One hospital stay and quicker emotional recovery
- Requires close coordination between your surgical oncologist and plastic surgeon
Delayed Reconstruction
- Performed after completing chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Gives the body time to heal before reconstruction
- May be necessary if complications arise during cancer treatment
Your medical team will guide you based on your cancer stage, health condition, and personal preference.
Potential Complications and Risks
Like any surgery, breast implant reconstruction carries potential risks. Being informed helps you make a confident, safe decision.
- Capsular contracture: Hardening of the tissue around the implant.
- Implant rupture or leakage: Rare with modern silicone shells.
- Infection: Usually appears in the early post-op stage.
- Asymmetry: One breast may appear different in shape or size.
- Loss of sensation: Temporary or permanent numbness.
- Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL): A very rare cancer associated with textured implants.
Tip: Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in Bangalore reduces most risks significantly.
Patients Should Follow Their Surgeon’s Instructions Regarding:
- Limiting certain activities during the initial recovery period to facilitate healthy healing.
- Regular checkup for any changes in breast appearance, such as swelling, redness, or discomfort.
- Routine attendance at regular follow-up consultations with the surgeon to assess progress and resolve any concerns.
Breast reconstruction with implants can be a transformative experience restoring confidence, femininity, and emotional well-being after breast cancer.
Your choice of implant should be a collaborative decision between you and your surgeon, based on your medical history, preferences, lifestyle, and the breast implant surgery cost in India. If you’re seeking expert guidance, connect with the best breast surgeon in Bangalore, Dr. Pinky Devi Ayyappan, for personalized care and comprehensive breast reconstruction options.
