Surgery to the other breast
If you have had one breast reconstructed, you may also have surgery to your other breast to match the size and shape of your reconstructed breast. This is usually done some months later.
During a breast reconstruction to one breast, surgeons try to match the size and shape of the reconstructed breast to your natural breast. But this is not always possible. They may suggest you have an operation on your other breast, so they match. This is called symmetry surgery.
You may have surgery if there are obvious differences between the remaining breast and the reconstructed breast. For example, the breasts may not be the same size or look even.
You usually have a second operation some months later. But sometimes you have it at the same time as a mastectomy and breast reconstruction.
Surgery to the other breast may involve the following:
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Breast reduction
This may be needed if your natural breast is larger than the reconstructed breast. The surgeon can make it smaller and change its shape to match.
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Breast lifting and reshaping (mastopexy)
If your natural breast sits lower than the reconstructed breast, it can be lifted and reshaped.
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Breast enlargement (augmentation)
This can be done if your reconstructed breast is larger than your other breast and you prefer the larger breast. The natural breast can be made bigger using a silicone implant. This can sometimes be done with a breast lift.
Surgery to your other breast will cause some scarring. This should fade with time. Some operations, such as repositioning the nipple, may lead to reduced sensation or loss of sensation in the nipple.
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