Implant-Based Reconstruction
Tissue expander followed by permanent implant. The most common technique — quicker recovery, no additional donor site.
Breast · BodyCode Aesthetics
Breast Reconstruction
Restoring You.
Specialist reconstructive breast surgery after mastectomy, lumpectomy or trauma — rebuilding shape with implants, your own tissue, or a combination. Performed with technical excellence and emotional care.
3–6 hrs
Surgery Time
GA
Anaesthesia
2–6 wks
Recovery
1–3 typical
Sessions
Abuja, Nigeria
Lagos, Nigeria
What is Breast Reconstruction?
Rebuild. Restore. Recover.
Breast reconstruction restores breast shape after mastectomy or significant trauma. It can be immediate (at the time of mastectomy) or delayed (months or years later) and uses implants, your own tissue (flap reconstruction), fat grafting, or combinations.
At BodyCode Aesthetics we coordinate closely with oncology teams when relevant, and approach every reconstruction with the technical care and emotional sensitivity it deserves.
- Restores breast shape after mastectomy or trauma
- Multiple technique options tailored to you
- Can be immediate or delayed
- Improves clothing fit and confidence
- Often combined with symmetry surgery on the other breast
- Long-lasting reconstruction
Techniques We Offer
Tailored to your anatomy & goals
DIEP Flap
Tissue and skin from the lower abdomen rebuilds the breast — no implant needed. Suitable for women with adequate abdominal tissue.
Latissimus Dorsi Flap
Tissue from the upper back is rotated forward to reconstruct the breast — often combined with a small implant.
Fat Grafting
Used to refine contour, fill defects after lumpectomy, or improve implant reconstructions.
Nipple-Areolar Reconstruction
Final-stage reconstruction of the nipple and areola using local tissue and tattoo techniques.
Is It Right for You?
Ideal Candidates
Reconstruction is offered to patients after mastectomy, lumpectomy with significant defect, or breast trauma.
Post-Mastectomy
You've undergone or are planning a mastectomy and want to rebuild breast shape.
Post-Lumpectomy Defect
You have a significant contour defect after breast-conserving surgery.
Cleared by Oncology
Your oncology team has cleared you for reconstruction — timing varies by treatment plan.
Healthy Enough for Surgery
You are fit for what may be a long operation; flap surgeries demand particular fitness.
Realistic Expectations
You understand reconstruction may need staging and that absolute symmetry is the goal, not a perfectly identical match.
Not Suitable If…
Active oncological treatment may delay reconstruction. Smoking, uncontrolled medical conditions and recent radiation may affect technique selection.
Step by Step
The Procedure at BodyCode Aesthetics
Reconstruction is a personalised, often staged journey planned in detail with your oncology team where applicable.
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01
Multidisciplinary Consultation
Detailed discussion with you (and your oncology team) on timing, technique and goals.
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02
Pre-Operative Planning
Imaging, blood tests, medical clearance. Technique-specific planning (e.g. flap imaging).
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03
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia delivered by experienced anaesthetic team across longer reconstructive operations.
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04
Stage 1: Reconstruction
Implant-expander placement OR autologous flap transfer. The main reconstructive operation.
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05
Recovery & Healing
Variable recovery depending on technique. Drains and supportive garments managed by team.
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06
Stage 2: Refinement
Implant exchange (after expander) OR flap refinement and fat grafting for contour.
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07
Stage 3: Nipple Reconstruction
Optional final stage — nipple-areolar reconstruction and tattoo for natural appearance.
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08
Symmetry Procedures
Where appropriate, the contralateral breast may be lifted, reduced or augmented to match.
Flexible financing & payment plans available — confirmed at your consultation.
See financing options
Why Choose Us
Why BodyCode Aesthetics?
Reconstructive Specialists
All reconstructions performed by surgeons with dedicated reconstructive training and oncoplastic experience.
Oncology Coordination
We work closely with oncology teams to plan timing and technique safely.
Multiple Technique Options
Implant, flap and hybrid options — chosen for your anatomy and oncological situation.
Emotional Care
Reconstruction is deeply personal — we approach every patient with the time and sensitivity needed.
Two Premium Clinics
Available in both Abuja and Lagos with comprehensive facilities.
Healing Journey
Recovery Timeline
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01Day 1 – 7 Hospital Stay
Initial Recovery
Hospital monitoring varies by technique — 1 night for implant, up to 5 nights for flap. Drains, dressings and supportive garments managed by team.
- Rest as advised
- Take medications
- Monitor drains as instructed
- No lifting
- No driving
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02Weeks 2 – 4 Home Recovery
Gradual Daily Life
Most patients return to non-physical activities. Drains gradually removed. Supportive garments continue.
- Light walking
- Continue supportive garment
- Attend follow-ups
- No heavy lifting
- No exertion
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03Weeks 4 – 8 Activity Returns
Increasing Mobility
Most desk work resumed. Light exercise reintroduced gradually.
- Resume desk work
- Gentle walking exercise
- Begin scar care
- No upper-body workouts yet
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04Weeks 8 – 16 Exercise Returns
Gradual Fitness
Cardio cleared. Strength training gradually introduced — upper body and chest last.
- Cardio cleared
- Gradual strength training
- Avoid heavy chest exercises until cleared
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056 – 18 Months Refinement Stages
Staged Refinement Complete
Implant exchange, fat grafting refinements and nipple reconstruction completed across staged operations. Final shape achieved.
- Annual follow-up
- Ongoing scar care
- Standard breast surveillance
Compression
- Surgical bra/garment 24/7 for 6 weeks
- Technique-specific support
Diet & Hydration
- High protein for tissue healing
- Hydrate well
- Avoid alcohol
Activity Guide
- Gradual progression by stage
- No chest workouts until cleared
Scar & Skin Care
- Silicone gel from week 3
- SPF essential
- Massage when cleared
Transparency First
Risks & Considerations
Every patient deserves complete honesty. These risks are rare when surgery is performed by BodyCode Aesthetics' expert team.
Flap Loss
Rare but serious — partial or total flap loss can occur. Microsurgical technique and close monitoring minimise this.
Implant Complications
Contracture, infection, malposition — managed as in standard implant surgery.
Wound Healing Issues
Higher in radiated tissue or smokers. Strict screening and technique selection minimise this.
Asymmetry
Perfect symmetry is not always achievable. Symmetry procedures on the contralateral breast often help.
Donor Site Issues
Flap surgeries leave scars and may affect strength at the donor site (abdomen, back).
Emotional Recovery
Reconstruction is emotional as well as physical. Mental health support is part of comprehensive care.
Our Commitment to Safety
Reconstruction is one of the most rewarding but technically demanding fields of plastic surgery. Our specialist team is equipped and trained for the full range of techniques.
When should I have reconstruction — immediate or delayed?
Immediate reconstruction (at the same time as mastectomy) is preferred where oncologically safe. Delayed reconstruction may be required after radiation or with certain treatment plans. Your oncology and reconstruction teams will plan together.
Implant or my own tissue (flap)?
Both have advantages. Implants give faster recovery and no donor site. Flaps give the most natural feel and avoid implant-related concerns long-term but involve longer surgery and an additional scar. The right choice depends on your anatomy, oncology and preferences.
Will it look like my original breast?
Reconstructed breasts can look very natural in clothing and excellent without clothing — but they are reconstructed, not regrown. Sensation and feel differ from the original.
How many surgeries will I need?
Most reconstructions span 2–3 stages over 6–18 months — the main reconstruction, a refinement, and (optionally) nipple reconstruction.
Will reconstruction affect cancer surveillance?
Reconstruction does not increase recurrence risk and does not significantly impair surveillance. Imaging protocols may be adjusted slightly — we coordinate with your oncology team.
Will I have a flat side or symmetry?
We typically reconstruct both sides where appropriate or perform symmetry surgery on the other breast (lift, reduction or augmentation) so that you are balanced in and out of clothing.
Can I choose to go flat?
Yes — "aesthetic flat closure" is an increasingly chosen option. We perform this with the same attention to scar quality and chest wall aesthetics.
Is reconstruction covered by insurance?
Coverage varies in Nigeria. Reconstruction after cancer is often considered medically necessary. We can advise on documentation.
How long is the total timeline?
Typically 6–18 months from first to final stage, with healing time between operations.
How do I book a reconstruction consultation?
Click "Book Consultation" or WhatsApp us. Reconstruction consultations are extended and can include your oncology team where appropriate.
How much does treatment cost?
Cost depends on the procedure, the time required and any combined treatments. Contact us for a personalised quote.
Do you offer financing?
We offer flexible payment options. Contact us for current arrangements.
Related
More breast procedures
Breast Reconstruction
Book a private consultation with our board-certified surgeons. We typically respond within one working day.