Breast Reconstruction, Restore confidence and embrace life beyond breast cancer

At Dr. Ernst Möller’s Cape Town practice, we understand that breast reconstruction is far more than a surgical procedure it is a deeply personal journey.  Whether you are facing a mastectomy, have undergone one in the past, or are dealing with congenital or trauma-related breast deformities, breast reconstruction can be a vital step in restoring your body image, self-confidence, and overall sense of well-being.

As a qualified Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeon with extensive experience in complex breast procedures, Dr. Möller is dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care. 

We’re here to guide you through every step, offering advanced surgical techniques tailored to your unique goals, body, and health circumstances.

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that aims to rebuild the shape and appearance of the breast following a mastectomy (partial or total breast removal), lumpectomy, or traumatic injury. 

It can also correct congenital deformities such as Poland Syndrome or tuberous breasts.

The goal is to create a natural-looking breast mound that restores symmetry, form, and balance to the chest. 

Depending on your needs, reconstruction may involve one or both breasts and can include procedures on the opposite breast for symmetry.

There are two main categories of breast reconstruction:

• Implant-based reconstruction – involves the use of saline or silicone implants.
• Autologous (or flap) reconstruction – uses tissue from another part of your body, such as the abdomen, back, or thighs.

Sometimes, a combination of both methods may be used to achieve the most aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting result.

When is Breast Reconstruction Performed?

Breast reconstruction can be done at various stages, depending on your diagnosis, treatment plan, and personal preferences:

• Immediate Reconstruction: Performed at the same time as your mastectomy or lumpectomy. This approach may reduce the number of surgeries needed and often provides a better cosmetic result.
• Delayed Reconstruction: Performed weeks, months, or even years after the initial breast surgery. This is often the case for patients who require radiation therapy or need time to recover emotionally before proceeding.

During your consultation, Dr. Möller will help you decide the most appropriate timing and technique for your reconstruction, taking your oncologist’s input and overall treatment plan into careful consideration.

Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

This method involves the use of a silicone or saline implant to restore the breast shape. 

It may be performed in one stage (direct-to-implant) or in two stages, with the use of a temporary tissue expander to gradually create space for the final implant.

Benefits:

• Shorter surgery and recovery time
• No additional donor site on the body
• Excellent aesthetic results in many cases

Considerations:

• May not be suitable if you have had or plan to undergo radiation therapy
• Implants may need to be replaced over time

Implant reconstruction is a popular choice for many women and offers a relatively straightforward solution with natural-looking results when performed by a skilled surgeon.

Autologous (Flap) Breast Reconstruction

This technique uses your own tissue—often from the abdomen (DIEP or TRAM flap), back (latissimus dorsi flap), or thighs (PAP or TUG flap)—to create a new breast mound. Autologous reconstruction tends to produce very natural results and does not involve implants.