ABSTRACT
The principal aim of breast surgery is to provide safe and successful oncological treatment. The oncological safety of breast reconstruction following skin- and/or nipple-sparing mastectomy has been well-established. This together with the psychosocial benefits of breast reconstruction through restoration of body image and improvement in self-esteem and quality of life, mean rates of immediate breast reconstructions following mastectomy have been increasing worldwide. This chapter gives a brief overview of the oncological principles underpinning reconstruction, factors affecting the timing of, and types of reconstructions. Our patients need to be guided by a multidisciplinary breast cancer team, which should involve reconstructive surgeons who are able to provide a full range of reconstructive procedures.
