Sairaala KL specializes in various types of breast reconstruction surgery, such as breast reconstruction for breast cancer survivors, correction of breast deformities and asymmetry, and nipple reconstruction.

Breast reconstruction is often considered when a breast has been removed due to breast cancer or high risk of it. The missing breast can be reconstructed using several different techniques, but the choice of surgical technique depends on the patient's body structure, previous surgeries, and the surgeon's skills and preferences.

To whom is breast reconstruction suitable for?

The surgery is suitable for most people in good health. However, the doctor will always perform an individual suitability assessment before the operation. At its best, breast reconstruction results in a breast that is comparable to a normal breast.

How is breast reconstruction performed?

The most common surgical techniques are abdominal flap (TRAM, muscle-sparing TRAM, DIEP), back flap (LD), breast implant, or fat transfer to the breast. TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muscle) surgery and its variations are the basic surgical procedures for breast reconstruction, providing good volume and symmetry without implants.

The surgery always begins with local anesthesia and is performed under general anesthesia by a team of two surgeons. In more than 70 percent of breast reconstruction surgeries, the healthy breast can be corrected at the same time, either by lifting or reducing it.

How should I prepare for breast reconstruction surgery and follow-up care?

You can go home 4–5 days after surgery. You should take 4–6 weeks of sick leave, depending on the physical demands of your job. About six months after surgery, the areola will be raised, and a few months after that, the areola will be tattooed.

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Our own publications on the subject:

1. The use of Lidocaine-Epinephrine reduces blood loss and operating time with free TRAM breast reconstruction. C Hellevuo, A Salmi, E Muuronen Eur J Plast Surg vol 25: 5, 2002, 243-24

2. Breast reconstruction with free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps in hospitals unaccustomed to microsurgery: original retrospective study. A Salmi, Scand J Plast Hand Surg, 2005; 39: 153-157

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The price of the procedure also includes 1–2 follow-up visits with a doctor, one set of necessary compression garments, and a visit with our nurse for suture removal or wound care, if needed. Any laboratory tests or imaging studies are not included in the price of the procedure.