Breast reconstruction recreates a breast's shape and contour after a mastectomy or removal of a breast due to another disease or condition. It can also be used to augment or decrease the size of your breasts for either medical or cosmetic reasons.

In breast reconstruction, Cedars-Sinai's expert surgeons form a breast mound by using an implant or, through the use of microsurgery, tissues from the belly, back or buttocks. Implants are salt water or silicone gel filled silicone sacs. The type of reconstruction that best suits you depends on your body type, age and medical condition.

To achieve a natural-appearing breast, more than one surgery is usually necessary in breast reconstruction. Breast reconstruction may include adding a nipple and tattooing to define the areola, the dark area around the nipple. Also, if you choose, surgeons sometimes perform a procedure on the opposite breast to create a better, more natural appearing match.

The experts at the Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Cedars-Sinai are expert in all forms of breast reconstruction, including:

• Breast augmentation
• Breast lift (Mastopexy)
• Breast reconstruction after breast removal
• Breast reduction