Give Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre a phone call at (778) 907-8812 Contact Us
Give Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre a phone call at (778) 907-8812 Contact Us

Immediate, Single-Stage Breast Reconstruction

Direct-to-implant breast reconstruction, often referred to as “single-stage” reconstruction, allows for placement of a permanent breast implant at the same time as mastectomy. At PSG, our board-certified plastic surgeons offer this advanced option to carefully selected patients who desire implant-based reconstruction without undergoing a tissue expander phase.

This approach can streamline the reconstructive process, reducing the number of surgeries while restoring breast shape in a single operation.

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What Is Direct-to-Implant Reconstruction?

Direct-to-implant reconstruction involves placing a permanent implant immediately after mastectomy.

In many cases, a biologic support material such as AlloDerm™ is used to provide additional coverage and structural support for the implant.

AlloDerm™ is derived from specially processed human tissue, leaving behind a supportive collagen framework. Over time, your body incorporates this material, strengthening and integrating it into your own tissue. It acts as a sling beneath the chest muscle to help support and position the implant securely.

Unlike traditional two-stage reconstruction, which uses a temporary tissue expander gradually filled over time, direct-to-implant surgery requires precise intraoperative planning. Because the implant size cannot be adjusted after surgery, careful surgical judgment is essential to achieving balanced, natural-looking results.

Good Candidates

Direct-to-implant reconstruction may be performed on one breast (unilateral) or both breasts (bilateral). It is often well-suited for:

  • Women with smaller breasts who do not desire significant enlargement
  • Patients with adequate skin remaining after mastectomy
  • Women with minimal breast sagging
  • Patients who are not ideal candidates for longer autologous (flap) procedures
  • Women undergoing prophylactic mastectomy (such as BRCA carriers)

To qualify, there must be sufficient healthy skin following mastectomy to safely accommodate the desired implant size. Tumor size, location, and whether radiation therapy is required all influence candidacy. Final pathology results from mastectomy typically return within two weeks, and your oncology surgeon will review those findings with you before finalizing your reconstruction plan.

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Testimonials Words From Our Patients

N.G.

Had a breast reduction done by Dr Adrian Lee. Amazing surgeon - very kind, explains things well and paid close attention to detail. The staff in the office are very kind too. I am ...

Had a breast reduction done by Dr Adrian Lee. Amazing surgeon - very kind, explains things well and paid close attention to detail. The staff in the office are very kind too. I am very impressed with how the healing has gone - back pain disappeared and with how thorough he is as a surgeon I believe that’s what helped the recovery process. Would recommend him and the office to anyone. :)

R.M.

I have had two surgeries at the Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre. I have only had interaction with Laurie in reception and Dr. Prince. Dr. Prince is second to none. She takes t...

I have had two surgeries at the Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre. I have only had interaction with Laurie in reception and Dr. Prince. Dr. Prince is second to none. She takes the time to explain everything in detail and answer any and all questions. Her expertise and her skills are truly exceptional. She is very easy to talk to and truly a master of her profession. I would not hesitate to recommend her services to anyone who wants the best. Laurie was also amazing. She is very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Dr. Prince and Laurie are both a real credit to the Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre.

S.W.

Dr. Oxley has done two procedures removing cancer for me. The first visit I had with him was in the surgery suite. He was professional, punctual and had just the right amount of hu...

Dr. Oxley has done two procedures removing cancer for me. The first visit I had with him was in the surgery suite. He was professional, punctual and had just the right amount of humour for what was a stressful time for me. The follow up visit was on time and I was booked for a second surgery. The second surgery was again, punctual and professional with a touch of humour. I am in the process of booking a follow up to my latest surgery now. I would not hesitate to use Dr. Oxley again.

K.G.

Dr. Imran Ratanshi performed my breast reduction surgery a month ago and I feel amazing. The recovery time was unbelievable and his staff has continually checked up on me to make s...

Dr. Imran Ratanshi performed my breast reduction surgery a month ago and I feel amazing. The recovery time was unbelievable and his staff has continually checked up on me to make sure I am still doing well. I would recommend him to anyone who is considering this surgery. He is honest and very helpful, provided all of the information I needed to make decision regarding my surgery. I feel like it's one of the best decisions I have ever made for my confidence. He did an incredible job, I trust him 100% and would not hesitate to put myself into his care again. Highly, highly recommend Dr. Ratanshi and his team!

R.M.

My highest recommendation for an outstanding doctor and person: Dr. Rizwan Mian. Dr. Mian has surgically removed cancer from my skin a number of times in recent years - all basal-c...

My highest recommendation for an outstanding doctor and person: Dr. Rizwan Mian. Dr. Mian has surgically removed cancer from my skin a number of times in recent years - all basal-cell carcinoma. He has always been the ultimate professional but with a kind and gentle manner that calms any anxiety a patient might be feeling. And when my most recently removed skin tested positive for melanoma I was anxious indeed! This time it was a spot on my cheek that would require a large amount of tissue removal, a biopsy of the closest lymph node, and skin grafting, all done under general anesthesia. But I need not have worried. Dr. Mian was reassuring and amazingly skillful, the surgery was successful, the melanoma contained, and the complicated skin graft has healed so well that the incision on my face is already starting to disappear. Thank you, Dr. Mian! 

J.H.

Can’t recommend Dr Genoway enough! I was looking for a reconstructive surgeon for 5 years, had several consultations with other doctors. As soon as I met Dr Genoway, I knew I...

Can’t recommend Dr Genoway enough! I was looking for a reconstructive surgeon for 5 years, had several consultations with other doctors. As soon as I met Dr Genoway, I knew I found my doctor. She is knowledgeable, experienced, kind and caring. Dr Genoway listened to all of my concerns, gave me honest medical opinion, including to comeback in a few years as I am too young for a particular procedures. I felt comfortable and not rushed or pressured. Most importantly I felt safe and in good hands. Ended up having my postpartum reconstruction and 2 other procedures (long time dream) in one go. Recovery was fast considering the extent of the procedures. I didn’t need the prescribed pain medication at all. She just has this “light hand”. Most importantly, the results are better than expected! Natural looking, better version of me, but still me. I feel more confident and much happier in my own skin.

M.Y.

I had my breast surgery in Plastic Surgery Group. Well organized safe and the best care during my surgery. Thank you guys and wish you all the best. 

G.M.

I was a novice to surgery and the staff here were amazing - very friendly and helpful. Dr. Lee was very calm and knowledgeable and answered my questions. Breast reduction surgery w...

I was a novice to surgery and the staff here were amazing - very friendly and helpful. Dr. Lee was very calm and knowledgeable and answered my questions. Breast reduction surgery was scary to me but I have zero regrets. Barely any pain or discomfort after surgery and any back pain I had before is now gone. I walk straighter and clothes fit better. My self esteem has improved. Would recommend this office and the actual surgery to anyone considering it. It’s a game changer.

T.W.

Highly recommend Dr. Prince. Had a breast reduction Oct.20....best decision Ive ever made. Dr. Prince was so professional and helpful. Great bedside manner. If you're on the fence ...

Highly recommend Dr. Prince. Had a breast reduction Oct.20....best decision Ive ever made. Dr. Prince was so professional and helpful. Great bedside manner. If you're on the fence of having this operation, go for it!! The pain level was a 1, if that. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop and the pain to hit me, never happened. Two week post op...ready to play tennis, but will wait another week. Thank you Dr.Prince and Lori!

J.P.

Dr.Oxley has been patient and very kind throughout my procedure making my experience less stressful and much more manageable. Also his office staff are a pleasure to work with. Alw...

Dr.Oxley has been patient and very kind throughout my procedure making my experience less stressful and much more manageable. Also his office staff are a pleasure to work with. Always greeting you as you come in and happy to answer any questions and concerns over the phone or via email. I never once felt alone during this process. Overall I recommend this capable and compassionate team. You'll be in good hands.

J.H.

I am a breast cancer survivor. After my reconstruction surgery failed I was referred to Dr Imran Ratanshi. His kind demeanor and great sense of humor put me at ease immediately. I ...

I am a breast cancer survivor. After my reconstruction surgery failed I was referred to Dr Imran Ratanshi. His kind demeanor and great sense of humor put me at ease immediately. I was in a very dark place emotionally due to the appearance of my body. Dr. Ratanshi preformed a deep inferior epigastric perforator surgery and it was a complete success. I believe Dr Ratanshi saved my life! A very skilled surgeon and a wonderful man.

J.C.

Absolutely amazing Suman is amazing at her job a big thank you. Dr R Mian so professional and made me feel so comfortable. A true artist in his field. I had a breast reduction Best...

Absolutely amazing Suman is amazing at her job a big thank you. Dr R Mian so professional and made me feel so comfortable. A true artist in his field. I had a breast reduction Best think I ever did for my health. Thank you Suman worth your weight in gold. Dr Mian Life changing can't not begin to Thank you. Absolutely best experience

C.A.

I had an exceptional experience with Dr. Genoway and their team. From the initial consultation to the surgery day, I felt an unwavering sense of compassion and support. The effort ...

I had an exceptional experience with Dr. Genoway and their team. From the initial consultation to the surgery day, I felt an unwavering sense of compassion and support. The effort on their end to look after my needs put me at ease. The seamless communication and follow-up care post-surgery further solidified my trust in their expertise. I was truly impressed by the pride they take in their work, and I'm grateful for the wonderful care I received. 

Read All Testimonials
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Advantages

Direct-to-implant reconstruction offers the following advantages:

  • Single operation
  • No tissue expander phase
  • No donor-site surgery
  • Shorter operative time compared to autologous reconstruction
  • Shorter overall recovery
  • Option to convert to autologous reconstruction in the future if needed
  • Implant placement does not mask detection of local cancer recurrence
  • Preservation of sensation in native skin flaps (in most cases)

Disadvantages

There are also several disadvantages to this procedure:

  • Limited implant size flexibility
  • Requires good skin quality
  • Higher complication rates in patients requiring radiation
  • Increased risk of infection or implant exposure
  • Potential capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around implant)
  • Small risk of implant rupture or device failure
  • Higher likelihood of future revision surgery compared to autologous reconstruction
  • Implant will not age or soften in the same way as natural breast tissue, which may affect long-term symmetry in unilateral reconstruction
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Preparing for Surgery

Preparation plays an important role in surgical safety and healing.

If you smoke, it is strongly recommended that you stop prior to surgery, as smoking significantly increases wound healing complications. You should also discontinue blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medications (except Tylenol), and certain supplements for two weeks before surgery. Herbal products such as ginkgo biloba, St. John’s Wort, fish oil, flaxseed oil, and high-dose vitamin E may increase bleeding risk and should be stopped as directed by your surgeon.

Your surgeon will provide personalized preoperative instructions based on your health history.

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Recovery After Direct-to-Implant Reconstruction

Most patients remain in the hospital overnight following surgery.

You will have surgical drains in place to remove excess fluid. These are typically removed in the office within one to two weeks. Showering is generally postponed until drains are removed.

Mild swelling, tightness, and discomfort are expected in the early healing period. Most sutures are absorbable. A supportive bra may be worn if comfortable, though this is not mandatory. Most patients gradually return to light activities within a few weeks, with continued healing and softening of the reconstructed breast over several months.

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If you are considering direct-to-implant breast reconstruction in Surrey, BC, contact PSG to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. We will help you determine whether single-stage reconstruction aligns with your anatomy, cancer treatment plan, and long-term goals.

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Schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons and get honest guidance tailored to your aesthetic goals, right here in Surrey.

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