Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction in Mumbai
Reconstruction Without a Donor Site
Implant-based breast reconstruction is the most commonly performed reconstructive technique worldwide. It uses a silicone or saline breast implant, sometimes with the help of a tissue expander or acellular dermal matrix (ADM), to recreate the breast shape after mastectomy. For many women, it offers a shorter surgery, faster recovery, and the comfort of avoiding a second surgical site on the body. It is often the first choice for women who do not want flap surgery, who are not candidates for microsurgery, or who are undergoing bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy as BRCA mutation carriers.
Dr. Rachana Tataria offers implant-based breast reconstruction in Mumbai at Fortis Hospital, Mulund. With an FRCS in Plastic Surgery from the Royal College of Surgeons, England, and fellowship training in oncoplastic breast surgery at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire NHS, her approach combines aesthetic precision with strict adherence to international safety standards. She uses FDA-approved implants from internationally recognised manufacturers and follows modern techniques such as prepectoral placement and ADM use where appropriate.
Types of Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Direct-to-Implant (DTI)
Also called single-stage reconstruction. The implant is placed at the same time as mastectomy in a single operation. Best suited for patients with good skin envelope quality and modest breast size.
Sub-pectoral (Submuscular) Reconstruction
The traditional technique where the implant sits beneath the pectoralis muscle. Still used in selected cases.
Two-Stage Reconstruction with Tissue Expander
A temporary expander is placed first to gradually stretch the chest tissue, and a permanent implant is exchanged in a second operation 3–6 months later. This is the most common approach in patients where skin needs to be stretched or where radiotherapy may be involved.
Prepectoral Reconstruction
The implant is placed above the chest (pectoralis) muscle, supported by an acellular dermal matrix (ADM). This modern approach avoids muscle disruption, reduces pain, and gives a more natural look.
Why Choose Implant Reconstruction?
Shorter operation
Typically 1.5 to 3 hours.
No donor site
No additional scars on the abdomen, thigh, or back.
Ideal for bilateral reconstruction
Particularly for BRCA carriers undergoing risk-reducing bilateral mastectomy.
Faster recovery
Most patients return to light activity within 2 weeks.
Excellent symmetry potential
When both sides are reconstructed at the same time.
Less impact on body image during the recovery phase
No second surgical site to heal.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
Women with adequate breast skin envelope after mastectomy.
Patients with small to medium breast size.
Women undergoing bilateral mastectomy.
Patients who prefer to avoid additional donor-site surgery.
Women not undergoing radiotherapy (radiotherapy increases implant complications such as capsular contracture).
Non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking before surgery
The Implant Reconstruction Procedure
The exact procedure depends on whether direct-to-implant or two-stage reconstruction is chosen. In a typical direct-to-implant operation:
After mastectomy is completed by the breast surgeon, Dr. Rachana Tataria takes over for the reconstructive portion.
The implant pocket is created either prepectoral (above the muscle) or submuscular (under the muscle), depending on the surgical plan.
If prepectoral, an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is positioned to support and cushion the implant.
An appropriately sized silicone implant is selected based on the chest wall measurements, opposite breast, and aesthetic plan.
Layered closure with drains.
In two-stage reconstruction, a tissue expander is placed first. Saline is then added through a port over weekly sessions in clinic to gradually expand the skin. Once full expansion is achieved, the expander is exchanged for a permanent implant in a second outpatient operation.
Why Choose Dr. Rachana Tataria for Implant Reconstruction in Mumbai
01
FRCS Plastic Surgery (UK) and oncoplastic breast surgery fellowship internationally rare credentials in Mumbai.
02
Use of FDA-approved silicone implants from established global manufacturers.
03
Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, JCI-accredited hospital with full safety protocols.
04
Adoption of modern prepectoral and ADM-supported techniques used routinely in UK NHS practice.
05
Female plastic surgeon additional comfort for breast consultations and operative care.
06
Multilingual consultations: English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Kutchi, Kannada, and French.
The Recovery Journey
Hospital Stay and Early Recovery
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 nights during the initial healing and recovery period.
Drain Removal and Healing Support
Drains are usually removed within 1–2 weeks, while supportive garments aid the healing process.
Return to Work and Daily Activities
Most individuals can return to desk work within 2 weeks after implant reconstruction surgery.
Resuming Exercise and Physical Activity
Gentle activities begin within 4 weeks, while full workouts are resumed after around 6 weeks.
FAQs : Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction in Mumbai
Modern silicone implants from reputable manufacturers do not have a fixed expiry date. Most patients can expect 15–20 years or longer, but replacement may be needed if rupture, contracture, or shape change occurs.
In direct-to-implant reconstruction, often no second major surgery is needed. In two-stage reconstruction, the expander is exchanged for a permanent implant in a smaller second operation. Additional revision surgeries for symmetry or nipple reconstruction may be planned later.
Prepectoral placement (above the muscle, supported by ADM) is increasingly preferred for less pain, faster recovery, and a more natural look, but requires good quality mastectomy skin flaps. Sub-pectoral placement is still useful in certain cases. The choice is individualised.
Implant reconstruction in irradiated chests carries a higher risk of complications such as capsular contracture and implant loss. In such cases, flap-based reconstruction (DIEP, TUG, or LD) may be safer. Dr. Tataria will plan timing carefully with your oncology team.
Sensation is usually reduced after mastectomy regardless of reconstruction type. Implant reconstruction does not typically restore much sensation, although newer techniques exploring nerve repair are emerging.
Yes, most health insurance policies in India cover implant-based breast reconstruction when performed as part of breast cancer treatment. Insurance verification is done before surgery.
Implant-reconstructed breasts feel firmer than natural breasts because the soft glandular tissue has been removed during mastectomy. Modern prepectoral placement with ADM and high-cohesive silicone implants give the most natural-feeling result possible with implants.
Get in Touch with Dr. Rachana Tataria
Whether you’re ready to take the next step or have questions about Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction, we are here to guide you.
Begin your journey toward transformation.