Dr Evan Woo
Senior Consultant Breast and Plastic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
Your Guide to Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is more than restoring breast shape. When thoughtfully planned alongside breast cancer treatment, it becomes an integral part of the overall treatment journey, helping women restore confidence, balance and a sense of wholeness while prioritising oncological safety.
Reconstruction may be performed using implants, your own tissue or a combination of techniques to recreate the breast following mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery. Dr Evan Woo tailors every reconstructive plan to your cancer treatment, anatomy and personal goals.
Understanding Breast Reconstruction
What Is Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the shape and appearance of the breast following a mastectomy or, in selected cases, breast-conserving surgery.
Reconstruction may be performed using breast implants, your own tissue from another part of the body, or a combination of both techniques. The approach is tailored to your anatomy, cancer treatment and personal goals, with the aim of creating a breast that is balanced and proportionate to your body.
Reconstruction may be performed using breast implants, your own tissue from another part of the body, or a combination of both techniques. The approach is tailored to your anatomy, cancer treatment and personal goals, with the aim of creating a breast that is balanced and proportionate to your body.
Potential Benefits & Outcomes
What Are the Benefits of Breast Reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction restores the shape of the breast following mastectomy or lumpectomy as part of breast cancer treatment. Depending on your individual needs and treatment goals, potential benefits include:
Understanding Your Suitability
Is Breast Reconstruction Suitable for Me?
The suitability of breast reconstruction depends on factors such as your diagnosis, cancer treatment plan, overall health and reconstructive goals.
You may be suitable for breast reconstruction if you:
A consultation with Dr Evan Woo can help determine whether breast reconstruction is appropriate for you and identify the reconstructive approach that best aligns with your anatomy, treatment plan and reconstructive goals.
Breast Cancer Screening Methods
Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures
Breast reconstruction can be performed using different techniques depending on factors such as your cancer treatment, body shape, available tissue and personal preferences.
Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Implant-based breast reconstruction uses a silicone breast implant to recreate the shape of the breast following a mastectomy. Depending on your anatomy and treatment plan, acellular dermal matrix (ADM) or surgical mesh may be used to provide additional support and help position the implant. Reconstruction may be performed immediately during the mastectomy or as delayed reconstruction after other cancer treatments have been completed. This approach generally involves a shorter operation and recovery than flap reconstruction, making it suitable for selected patients.
Autologous (Flap) Breast Reconstruction
Autologous breast reconstruction uses your own tissue, commonly taken from the abdomen, thigh or other areas of the body, to rebuild the breast. Depending on your anatomy and reconstructive goals, options may include a DIEP flap, TRAM flap, TUG flap, LICAP flap or omentum flap. Many of these procedures involve microsurgical free flap reconstruction, where tiny blood vessels are reconnected under a microscope to restore the blood supply to the transferred tissue. Because the reconstructed breast is created using your own tissue, it can provide a natural look and feel, although the procedure is typically more complex and involves a longer recovery.
Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction
Oncoplastic breast reconstruction combines breast cancer surgery with plastic surgery techniques to preserve or restore the breast's appearance following breast-conserving surgery. By reshaping the remaining breast tissue, and in some cases improving breast symmetry, this approach aims to achieve effective cancer treatment while maintaining a balanced, natural-looking breast contour.
Planning Begins with Understanding Your Options
Every reconstruction technique has its own advantages and considerations. Dr Woo will guide you through the available options, helping you understand which approach best aligns with your cancer treatment, anatomy and personal goals.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Preparing for Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Careful planning helps ensure your breast reconstruction is tailored to your individual needs and cancer treatment. Before surgery, you can generally expect the following:
Consultation and Assessment
Dr Evan Woo will review your breast cancer diagnosis, treatment history, overall health and reconstructive goals to recommend the most appropriate approach.
Pre-Operative Investigations
Blood tests, imaging or other pre-operative assessments may be required based on your medical history and planned procedure.
Preparing for Surgery
You will receive personalised instructions on medications, smoking cessation, fasting requirements and arranging support for your recovery.
If you have any questions before your procedure, Dr Evan Woo will address them during your consultation to help you feel informed and prepared.
What to Expect
What Happens During
Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Breast reconstruction is performed under general anaesthesia and is tailored to the type of reconstruction being performed, whether it is carried out at the same time as breast cancer surgery or as a separate procedure. While every procedure is individualised, it generally involves the following steps:
| Step | What to Expect |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia is administered so you remain asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. |
| Surgical Planning & Incisions | Dr Evan Woo makes the planned incisions based on the reconstructive technique and your personalised treatment plan. |
| Breast Reconstruction | The breast is reconstructed using implants, your own tissue or oncoplastic techniques, depending on the agreed surgical approach. |
| After the Procedure | You are monitored in the recovery area before being transferred to your hospital room. Depending on the type of reconstruction performed, your hospital stay may range from one to several days. |
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is administered so you remain asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure.
Surgical Planning & Incisions
Dr Evan Woo makes the planned incisions based on the reconstructive technique and your personalised treatment plan.
Breast Reconstruction
The breast is reconstructed using implants, your own tissue or oncoplastic techniques, depending on the agreed surgical approach.
After the Procedure
You are monitored in the recovery area before being transferred to your hospital room. Depending on the type of reconstruction performed, your hospital stay may range from one to several days.
Post-Surgical Care
Recovery After
Breast Reconstruction
Recovery after breast reconstruction varies depending on the type of reconstruction performed, whether it is combined with breast cancer surgery and your individual healing process.
| Step | What to Expect |
Hospital Stay and Early Recovery |
Most patients remain in hospital for several days and experience temporary swelling, bruising and discomfort after surgery. |
Gradual Return to Daily Activities |
Light activities can usually be resumed over the following weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until advised by your surgeon. |
Wound Care and Follow-up |
Caring for your incisions and attending follow-up appointments helps support healing and monitor your recovery. |
Long-Term Healing |
Swelling gradually subsides and scars mature over several months as the reconstructed breast settles into its final shape. |
Hospital Stay and Early Recovery
Most patients remain in hospital for several days and experience temporary swelling, bruising and discomfort after surgery.
Gradual Return to Daily Activities
Light activities can usually be resumed over the following weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until advised by your surgeon.
Wound Care and Follow-up
Caring for your incisions and attending follow-up appointments helps support healing and monitor your recovery.
Long-Term Healing
Swelling gradually subsides and scars mature over several months as the reconstructed breast settles into its final shape.
Rebuilding Form, Supporting Recovery
Recovery is an important part of your reconstruction journey. Whether you are considering breast reconstruction or planning further procedures to refine your result, Dr Woo provides ongoing guidance and continuity of care through every stage of recovery.
Understanding the Risks
Risks and Potential Complications of Breast Reconstruction
As with any surgical procedure, breast reconstruction carries potential risks.
Potential risks include:
Dr Evan Woo will discuss these with you during your consultation and explain the steps taken to minimise them.
Trusted Breast Surgeon Expertise
Why Patients Choose
Dr Evan Woo for Breast Reconstruction
Dedicated Breast Surgery Practice
Dr Woo's practice focuses on aesthetic breast surgery, breast reconstruction and breast cancer surgery, providing specialised expertise across the full spectrum of breast procedures.
Fellowship-Trained Breast Surgeon
Having completed a Microsurgery Fellowship at the Nottingham Breast Institute in the United Kingdom, Dr Woo has advanced training in breast reconstruction and complex breast surgery.
Restoring More Than Breast Shape
Breast reconstruction is about more than replacing what has been lost. Every procedure is planned with careful consideration of oncological safety, breast shape, symmetry and long-term outcomes, with the aim of achieving the best possible result for each individual.
Integrated Cancer and Reconstructive Care
Dr Woo's expertise in both breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction allows reconstructive planning to be incorporated into your overall treatment journey, whether reconstruction is performed immediately or at a later stage.
Moving Forward
Completing Your
Breast Reconstruction Journey
Breast reconstruction is often performed in stages. While some patients achieve their desired outcome with a single procedure, others may benefit from additional surgery to refine the appearance, improve symmetry or complete the reconstruction.
Depending on your individual goals, further procedures may include:
Dr Evan Woo will explain which procedures, if any, may be appropriate for your individual circumstances and help you plan each stage of reconstruction based on your treatment goals and desired outcome.
Your Journey Starts Here
Rebuilding with Confidence
at Evan Woo Plastic Surgery
Choosing breast reconstruction is a personal decision, and every woman’s priorities are different. Whether you are considering immediate reconstruction alongside breast cancer surgery or exploring your options after treatment, understanding the available techniques is only one part of the process. Careful planning helps ensure your treatment aligns with your diagnosis, anatomy and long-term goals.
At Evan Woo Plastic Surgery, breast reconstruction is approached as an integral part of breast cancer care, with every recommendation shaped by your individual circumstances and treatment needs. Dr Evan Woo takes the time to explain the available reconstructive options, answer your questions and help you make informed decisions with confidence. Schedule a consultation with Dr Woo to discuss your breast reconstruction options and receive a personalised treatment plan.
Helpful Information
FAQs About Breast Reconstruction Surgery
When can breast reconstruction be performed?
Breast reconstruction can be performed at the same time as a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later stage after breast cancer treatment has been completed (delayed reconstruction). The most suitable timing depends on factors such as your cancer treatment plan, overall health and personal preferences.
How do I know which type of breast reconstruction is right for me?
The most appropriate reconstructive approach depends on factors such as your anatomy, cancer treatment, lifestyle and personal goals. During your consultation, Dr Evan Woo will explain the available options and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Will my reconstructed breast look and feel natural?
Breast reconstruction aims to restore the shape and appearance of the breast as naturally as possible. While the results vary depending on the reconstruction technique used, your anatomy and the extent of surgery, Dr Evan Woo carefully plans each procedure to achieve balanced, proportionate results.
How long does it take to recover from breast reconstruction surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the type of reconstruction performed and your individual healing process. Implant-based reconstruction generally involves a shorter recovery than flap reconstruction. Dr Evan Woo will provide personalised guidance on your expected recovery timeline and when you can safely resume your usual activities.
Will I need additional surgery after breast reconstruction?
Some patients achieve their desired outcome with a single procedure, while others may benefit from additional surgery to improve breast symmetry, refine the breast shape or complete nipple and areola reconstruction. Whether further procedures are recommended depends on your individual treatment plan and reconstructive goals.
Experience You Can Rely On
Our Breast Reconstruction Surgeon
Experience You Can Rely On
Our Breast Reconstruction Surgeon
Dr Evan Woo
Senior Consultant Breast and Plastic Surgeon
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, National University of Singapore
- Master of Medicine (Surgery), National University of Singapore
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
- Fellow, Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)
Dr Evan Woo is a specialist plastic, reconstructive and breast surgeon with a focused practice in breast reconstruction, breast cancer surgery and aesthetic breast surgery. Having completed specialist training in Singapore and a Microsurgery Fellowship at the Nottingham Breast Institute in the United Kingdom, he provides comprehensive breast reconstructive care, helping patients plan and undergo reconstruction as an integrated part of their breast cancer treatment whenever appropriate.
His expertise in both breast reconstruction and breast cancer surgery allows reconstructive options to be considered alongside cancer treatment from the outset. Whether you are considering immediate or delayed breast reconstruction, implant-based reconstruction or autologous flap reconstruction, Dr Woo develops personalised treatment plans that take into account your diagnosis, anatomy, cancer treatment and long-term reconstructive goals.
