After a mastectomy, a person may choose not to undergo immediate breast reconstruction for several reasons. From personal choice or lack of access to a plastic surgeon, to limited knowledge or the presence of other medical conditions, for some, immediate breast reconstruction just isn’t an option.

Fortunately, breast reconstruction doesn’t have to be performed immediately after a mastectomy or other breast cancer surgery. A person may choose to have it done a year later, 5 years later, 15 years, and so on. Still, when considering the option of a delayed breast reconstruction, there are key facts every patient should be aware. 

To help individuals considering delayed breast reconstruction surgery, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 things you should know about delayed breast reconstruction.

Fact #1: Delayed Breast Reconstruction Can Happen Any Time

As mentioned, breast reconstruction can be performed any time after the initial breast cancer surgery. There is no deadline, and ultimately, the best timing for reconstruction is when it’s best for you.

Fact #2: You Have Many Options Beyond Implants

While tissue expanders and breast implants are the most common, they aren’t the only methods of breast reconstruction available to choose from. 

With advanced surgical techniques (known as “flap” procedures), patients can actually use their own living tissue to recreate a breast following a mastectomy. Tissue can be used from the thighs, buttocks, lower abdomen, or back. Specifically, the DIEP Flap procedure is the most common flap procedure because it uses the patient’s own skin and fat from the lower abdomen, resulting not only in a new, natural-looking breast but also a flatter abdomen.

Any technique of delayed breast reconstruction is typically associated with more viable scarring compared to immediate reconstruction. However, when combining advanced surgical techniques and amazing scar treatment technologies, scars are less noticeable and can be hidden beneath clothing and swimsuits.

Fact #3: Restoring Sensation After Mastectomy IS Possible

Understandably, sensation—or lack thereof—is a top concern for many patients considering breast reconstruction of any kind. So, can sensation be restored after breast reconstruction? Yes. With TruSense®, surgeons reconnect the sensory nerves in the breast during reconstruction, ensuring sensation and overall wholeness are maintained following the procedure. 

Fact #4: Breast Reconstruction After Radiation IS Possible

Patients often believe they can’t undergo breast reconstruction, even delayed, after having radiation treatment. While it is true that breast reconstruction and radiation aren’t always advised, reconstruction can be safely performed as early as six weeks following treatments. In these cases, tissue-based breast reconstruction is recommended, largely because implant reconstruction has a 1 in 3 risk of failure for patients with a history of radiation.

Fact #5: Delayed Breast Reconstruction is Covered by Insurance

The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), passed by Congress in ’98, mandates that insurance companies cover breast reconstruction procedures if the cost of a mastectomy is covered. This is true even in cases of delayed breast reconstruction. 

If you are considering delayed breast reconstruction and want to learn more about your options, we highly recommend consulting with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.

Explore Breast Reconstruction in San Antonio with PRMA

Delayed breast reconstruction offers hope and healing—even months or years after mastectomy. Many women are surprised to learn they’re still excellent candidates for advanced procedures like natural tissue reconstruction, and that it’s never “too late” to pursue sensation restoration through innovations like TruSense®. 

Whether you didn’t know reconstruction was an option, were advised to wait due to cancer treatments, or are now reconsidering previous implant choices, delayed reconstruction can still provide natural-looking results that restore both confidence and comfort. 

We believe every woman deserves to feel whole again—on her own timeline. If you’re exploring your next step, we invite you to schedule a consultation and discover the path that’s right for you.