Everything you need to know about breast reconstruction after a mastectomy

At Amoena, we’ve supported women in breast care for over 50 years, developing products designed for surgical recovery, reconstructed bodies and everyday confidence. This guide is intended to answer some of the most common questions women have while going through this experience.

Making the choice to have reconstruction after a mastectomy

“Should I have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy?” is one of the most common questions women ask, but because it’s a deeply personal choice, it’s also one of the most difficult to answer. For some, reconstruction is an important step in reclaiming body confidence and comfort; for others, it feels unnecessary or unwanted.

There is no right answer, but hearing from women with different experiences can be really helpful:

Pamela S from California, reconstruction helped her return to normality: 
My concern at the time of my surgery was the cosmetic result. It turns out, I had a very good result. More than ten years later, I can honestly say that unless I share my experience, no one would ever know I’ve had mastectomies with reconstruction. My plastic surgeon guided me through the process, and I felt supported both clinically and emotionally. For me, reconstruction helped restore a sense of normalcy.

Lynne D from Canada, happy with her choice not to reconstruct: 
I did not want any more unnecessary surgery. Saline implants often mean future operations if there’s hardening, scar tissue or leakage. The reconstructed breasts would never look the same as my natural ones, and flap reconstruction meant even more procedures, pain and scarring. I felt that reconstruction of any type would make detection much more difficult. In the end, choosing not to reconstruct gave me peace, it allowed me to move forward without more interventions.

While your surgeon and breast care team can explain your medical options, your feelings matter too, and the only right choice is the one that makes you feel most comfortable and confident.

The advantages and disadvantages of breast reconstruction after mastectomy

• Restores body symmetry and shape, and can boost confidence.
• Helps many women feel more like themselves again.
• Can be tailored to your body and preferences (implants, flaps, external forms).

• Surgery is often multi-step, with longer recovery than mastectomy alone.
• Some women experience complications, changes in sensation, or need further adjustments.
• The reconstructed breast may not feel or age the same as the natural one.

Deciding reconstruction is not for you

Choosing not to have breast reconstruction is a valid and empowering option, and many women live happy, fulfilled lives without additional surgery.

Life without reconstruction can mean embracing your body exactly as it is after mastectomy, with the freedom of fewer medical procedures, shorter recovery times and no need for future adjustments or implant checks.

Some women prefer using breast forms or shapers for symmetry when they want it, while others are completely comfortable without them. Clothing choices may evolve, and emotional adjustment can take time, but many women describe a strong sense of acceptance, identity and resilience in living authentically with their post-surgery body.

If you decide to have reconstruction, here’s a few things to consider

Your reconstruction options

You may have options such as immediate reconstruction (at the same time as mastectomy) or delayed reconstruction, along with different techniques such as implants or tissue flaps.

Some women also choose external prosthetics or decide not to reconstruct at all, it depends on your health, lifestyle and personal preferences.

What reconstructed breasts look and feel like

While modern surgery can create a very natural shape and appearance, symmetry, scarring and sensation are influenced by your chest structure, the type of surgery and your skin’s elasticity.

Breast surgery can leave women feeling uneven or unbalanced, whether after lumpectomy or mastectomy. Reconstructed breasts may feel somewhat different, often with reduced sensation, a firmer texture, or a slightly altered contour. Understanding this can help you set realistic expectations and choose the right support for your body.

Breast shapers offer a non-surgical solution by restoring a smooth, even silhouette inside the bra, adapting to natural changes over time. They can be worn with pocketed clothing and bras, swimwear and special-occasion clothing.

The pain factor with mastectomy with reconstruction
Pain, tenderness and swelling are common in the weeks after combined mastectomy and reconstruction. Recovery may be longer than with mastectomy alone, but most women find pain well managed through medication, rest and gentle movement. Healing is gradual, and the focus is on steady progress rather than speed.

Can cancer return in a reconstructed breast?
Reconstructed breasts are made from implants or your own tissue and cannot develop breast cancer in the same way natural breast tissue can. However, regular check-ups remain important, as your chest wall, lymph nodes or any remaining tissue may still need monitoring. Your surgeon will guide you on the right follow-up plan.

What bra should you wear post-surgery and construction?
Supportive, well-fitting bras play a crucial role both immediately after surgery and long-term. In the initial weeks, you’ll need a post-surgery bra: soft, front-opening, non-wired and designed to protect incisions.

As you heal, a reconstructed-breast bra or mastectomy bra that accommodates your new shape will help you feel comfortable and confident. Look for wide underbands, soft fabrics and pockets or inserts where needed.

Supportive products from Amoena
At Amoena, we design products for women after breast surgery and throughout reconstruction:

• Post surgery bras and recovery care.
• Swimwear and lingerie tailored for reconstructed shapes.

Our goal is to help you feel supported, comfortable and confident as you heal and rebuild.