Reconstructive Surgery

Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction

Rebuilding the breast shape after mastectomy using an implant, often in a planned, staged approach.

What it is

Implant-based reconstruction rebuilds the breast shape after mastectomy using a breast implant. It can be performed at the same time as mastectomy (immediate) or later (delayed), and is often staged, beginning with a tissue expander that is gradually filled to create space before the final implant is placed.

The implant may be placed in front of or behind the chest muscle, and supportive tissue may be used to hold it securely. Previous or planned radiotherapy strongly affects the approach and outcome, so reconstruction is always planned in coordination with your wider cancer care.

What it can improve

  • Breast shape and volume after mastectomy
  • Symmetry with the other breast, often with a balancing procedure
  • Comfort and confidence in clothing
  • A reconstructed contour without using tissue from elsewhere

It does not restore normal breast sensation, does not recreate a natural nipple in itself, and implants are not lifetime devices. Radiotherapy increases the risk of complications and can affect the result.

Quick facts

  • Procedure time: 1–3 hours depending on stage
  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia
  • Clinic stay: Short stay
  • Recovery: Around 2–4 weeks before light daily activity
  • Exercise: Strenuous activity from about 6 weeks
  • Final result: Settles over 6–12 months, often across stages

Before the procedure

You will receive individualized instructions and your reconstruction is planned in coordination with your breast and oncology teams. Timing, the staged approach, implant choice, and realistic outcomes are discussed in detail.

During the procedure

Depending on the stage, a tissue expander or implant is placed in front of or behind the chest muscle, with supportive tissue where needed. The position and shape are checked carefully before closing.

After the procedure

Swelling and tightness are normal and settle gradually. If an expander is used, it is filled over several visits before the final implant is placed at a later operation. Activity is reintroduced as healing allows.

Results: what it can and cannot achieve

A reconstructed breast shape and improved symmetry are achievable. Reconstruction cannot restore normal sensation, cannot make implants permanent, and results are affected by radiotherapy. A balancing procedure on the other breast and later nipple reconstruction are often part of the complete plan.

Possible risks and complications

Reconstruction is carefully planned, but all surgery carries risks, and reconstructive surgery on treated tissue carries additional considerations. Possible risks include:

  • Infection, bleeding, or delayed wound healing
  • Implant loss, particularly after radiotherapy
  • Capsular contracture (firm scar tissue around the implant)
  • Implant rippling, malposition, or asymmetry
  • Reduced or altered skin sensation
  • Need for further surgery over time

Smoking and impaired circulation raise the risk of healing problems, wound complications, and tissue loss, so honest assessment and smoking cessation are especially important in reconstructive surgery.

Why Skulpturkliniken

Reconstructive surgery by Dr. Matteo Amoroso

Reconstructive surgery at Skulpturkliniken is performed by Dr. Matteo Amoroso, a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with expertise in microsurgery and super-microsurgery.

Precision throughout the care pathway

Dr. Amoroso coordinates carefully with your oncology team to ensure reconstruction happens at the right point relative to your broader cancer treatment.

Reconstructive precision meets aesthetic judgment

From the first consultation, Dr. Amoroso helps you understand which approach suits your situation, what is realistic, and how reconstruction fits into your broader care.

Individualized assessment

Every procedure begins with a detailed assessment. We evaluate:

  • Your anatomy, skin quality, and any radiation history
  • Timing relative to oncological treatment
  • Choice between implant-based and autologous technique
  • General health and healing factors
  • Your goals and realistic expectations

Safety, precision, and long-term care

Safety is central to every step of the surgical journey. Your treatment includes:

  1. ✓ Specialist consultation with Dr. Matteo Amoroso
  2. ✓ Detailed assessment and individualized surgical planning
  3. ✓ Coordination with your oncology team
  4. ✓ Guidance before each stage
  5. ✓ Surgery in a safe and controlled surgical environment
  6. ✓ Scheduled postoperative follow-up visits after each stage
  7. ✓ Direct access to the surgeon and nursing team
  8. ✓ Digital medical records through Adoreal®
  9. ✓ Patient insurance through Folksam
  10. ✓ Long-term postoperative support

Trust The Adoreal Experience

The Adoreal platform gives you complete control of your aesthetic journey. You will be guided throughout your entire process, from consultation to recovery, ensuring an exceptional experience for each of our patients.

The Adoreal app on a phone showing your care journey

You are in Control

Complete access to your information, health records and previous journeys.

The Adoreal app – feature view

Unmatched Predictability

Manage your expectations with our questionnare Silhouette, and visualise your ideal outcomes with 3D simulation.

Trusted step-by-step guide

From bookings to payments, logistics and after care, Adoreal will be your companion.

The Adoreal app – feature view

Enhanced Safety Measures

Complimentary health check, conscious monitoring, and meticulous preparation.

In their words

Patients trust Skulpturkliniken for care.

Our patient trust is our greater achievement.

Jun 17, 2026

The best surgeon

I had a circumferential abdominoplasty with Matteo Amoroso, and I can honestly say I couldn't have wished for a better surgeon. From the moment I met Matteo, I felt the sense of security I was looking for. He was kind, attentive, and professional from the very beginning. He took the time to explain everything in detail and answered all my questions, which made me feel well-informed before the surgery. I never had to go home and wonder about anything because he was so thorough in his explanations. It's now been three weeks since my surgery, and even though the healing process is still ongoing, I'm already incredibly happy with the result. The change is greater than I had dared to hope for, and I feel so grateful that I chose Matteo. I have more surgeries I want to undergo in the future, and there's no doubt that Matteo will be my first choice then too. I warmly recommend him to anyone considering plastic surgery!

May 18, 2026

A pro

I've had two surgeries with Matteo. The first was liposuction on my stomach, and most recently, my eyes – specifically, my lower eyelids and eyebrows. Matteo suggested a unique technique for my eyebrows that no other surgeon had proposed. This allowed me to remove excess skin under my eyebrows without needing an eyebrow or forehead lift, which I wasn't interested in. I'm extremely happy with the results of both my procedures. Matteo is a true professional; he loves his work, and you're always met with kindness and genuine care. He's an excellent communicator, explaining everything clearly and answering all questions and concerns. You feel completely confident in his knowledge and experience. Matteo also has a wonderful ability to make you feel understood; he listens carefully and is just as dedicated and invested as you are in achieving a successful procedure and outcome. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Matteo. I've had surgery 6 times in total, with the last two being with him. Whatever my next procedure may be, I will undoubtedly choose Matteo first again.

May 10, 2026

The best surgeon

Matteo is an incredibly skilled surgeon whom I highly recommend. I underwent a major tummy tuck, and from the very first consultation, Matteo was professional, calm, and very accessible. He took the time to answer all my questions and made me feel secure, involved, and well-informed throughout the entire process. He thoroughly explained the procedure, recovery, and what results I could expect, which gave me great confidence going into the surgery. Everything went very well without any complications, and I am very happy with the result. I would undoubtedly choose Matteo again if I were to have more procedures in the future.

Apr 6, 2026

The best choice for a plastic surgeon!

Dr. Amoroso has performed several operations on me, including a neck and facelift with fat grafting, a lip lift, eyelid surgery, breast and tummy tucks, and liposuction on my knees. All operations have been successful and exceeded my expectations. I have worked with doctors for 50 years and am very impressed by Dr. Amoroso's artistry and skill. He is truly an asset to this profession and to patients who desire excellent results and the peace of mind that comes from being cared for in a responsible and professional manner.

Mar 13, 2026

Successful 360 lipo

Matteo is the best surgeon I could ever imagine. I am beyond satisfied. Both the care I received and the results of the 360 liposuction Matteo performed on me have been absolutely fantastic. It couldn't have been better! Everything has exceeded my expectations. Matteo is professional, skilled, competent, caring, reassuring, and experienced. Thank you, Matteo!

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