Delayed breast reconstruction is slightly more challenging compared to immediate breast reconstruction. Factors such as insufficient skin, scar tissue from previous surgery, and underarm depressions after lymph node clearance are additional considerations.

First, during a total mastectomy, if immediate reconstruction is not planned, the breast surgeon will remove excess skin and close the wound with a straight line. Therefore, in autologous tissue breast reconstruction, not only is fat from areas like the abdomen, back, buttocks, or thighs important, but the skin covering the area is also crucial. If the patient opts for implant reconstruction or desires scar placement similar to immediate reconstruction (limited to a smaller area), an additional step is required: inserting a tissue expander to stretch the skin.

The second challenge is the scar tissue adhesions or fibrosis within the entire chest area. During the reconstruction surgery, the surgeon must carefully release these scars to create a well-shaped breast.

The third issue is the noticeable depression in the underarm, caused by the removal of most lymph nodes. If this depression can be filled during reconstruction, the result will be much more satisfying, particularly improving clothing options and comfort, especially in summer.

Another technical challenge arises with free flap breast reconstruction. The surgeon must find a healthy set of blood vessels in the chest to supply blood to the flap. In delayed reconstruction, the thoracodorsal artery may sometimes be unusable due to damage from the first surgery or because severe scarring makes dissection difficult. However, this issue is not the most difficult for experienced surgeons. Most skilled and up-to-date surgeons now use the internal mammary vessels for anastomosis. Although the internal mammary technique is more complex than using the thoracodorsal artery and less experienced surgeons may be hesitant to use it, it yields better results. The fat in the flap survives well due to the abundant blood supply.

While delayed reconstruction presents certain challenges, these can be overcome by experienced surgeons. Delayed breast reconstruction can still achieve a natural and beautiful result, making it a highly recommended procedure. Breast cancer survival rates have significantly improved, and we sincerely believe that patients should not have to endure ongoing inconvenience or lifelong feelings of loss and regret due to the absence of a breast.