Direct to Implant Breast Reconstruction

Name: Direct To Implant
Brand: Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre
Rating: 4.1 (46 reviews)

Single-stage reconstruction is designed to restore breast contour immediately at the time of mastectomy.

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.

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.

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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 ...

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...

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 ...

Read All Testimonials

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

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.

Contact Us

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.