Immediate vs. Staged Breast Reconstruction

Submitted by Dr. Joyesh Raj on Fri 08/15/2025 - 00:01

When facing a mastectomy, choosing the right breast reconstruction timing can play a key role in healing. Your choice depends on many factors, including your treatment plan and unique life circumstances. It all starts with being informed about what each option involves.

At Raj Plastic Surgery in Westlake, OH, Dr. Joyesh Raj guides patients through the differences between immediate and staged breast reconstruction with a warm, understanding approach rooted in compassion and clarity.

Staged Breast Reconstruction

Staged reconstruction, or delayed reconstruction, is performed after the mastectomy site has had time to heal. It starts with making room for the implants. Dr. Raj places tissue expanders at the time of your mastectomy. Then, you’ll typically have expander inflation, which involves gradually filling the expanders with saline (salt water), with fills happening every week or two in the office.

After reaching the desired size, you’ll have another surgery in which Dr. Raj removes the expander and places a permanent implant. Another choice involves rebuilding the breast using your tissue instead of implants. In this approach, Dr. Raj relocates skin, fat, muscle, and blood vessels (a tissue “flap”) from another part of the body to the chest. Dr. Raj performs two flap techniques: the latissimus dorsi flap, which utilizes tissue from the upper back, and the TRAM flap, which uses tissue from the lower abdomen.

Immediate Breast Reconstruction

Immediate reconstruction happens at the same time as the mastectomy. After your surgical oncologist performs the breast tissue removal, Dr. Raj begins the reconstruction. This includes either implants or flap reconstruction.

Which Option Is Right for You?

There is no single “best” approach; instead, there is the one that aligns with your goals, treatment plan, and timing. During your consultation, D”. Raj” will explain each option in detail and help you weigh the benefits and considerations. Immediate reconstruction reduces the total number of surgeries, and waking up from surgery with some breast contour already in place can be a source of comfort during a difficult time. It can preserve more of the natural breast skin, promoting a natural shape. However, it is not the right fit for everyone.

Some women may require additional cancer treatments, like radiation, that could affect the outcome. In those cases, staged reconstruction may be the safer option. Although it takes longer to complete, staged reconstruction can allow for more flexibility and give the body time to adjust between steps.

Breast Reconstruction Consultations in Westlake, OH

Whether it’s immediate or staged breast reconstruction, Dr. Raj provides ongoing support to help you feel informed, heard, and confident in your care. To book your breast reconstruction consultation with Dr. Joyesh Raj in Westlake, OH, call 440-808-8030.