Implant-Based Oncoplastic Reconstruction

Breast cancer surgery can have a lasting physical and emotional impact. For some patients, implant-based oncoplastic breast reconstruction may be an appropriate option to restore breast shape following cancer surgery — either at the time of cancer removal or as a staged procedure.

At Darling Downs Surgical Oncology, implant-based reconstruction is offered as part of a thoughtful, subspecialist approach to breast cancer surgery, allowing eligible patients to access advanced reconstruction options locally in Toowoomba, without the need to travel to metropolitan centres.

Implant-based oncoplastic reconstruction involves the use of a breast implant to restore breast volume and contour following mastectomy or selected breast cancer procedures.

This approach integrates:

• Safe cancer removal
• Careful incision planning
• Reconstruction principles
• Consideration of long-term breast shape and symmetry
   

Reconstruction may be performed:

• Immediately, at the same time as cancer surgery, or
• Delayed, after completion of other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy
  

Not all patients are suitable candidates, and careful assessment is essential.

Implant-based reconstruction requires specific additional training and experience beyond standard breast surgery.

Surgeons with focused oncoplastic training are experienced in:

• Selecting appropriate candidates for reconstruction
• Incision placement to optimise healing and appearance
• Managing the interaction between implants and cancer treatment
• Planning reconstruction alongside radiation and oncology care
• Reducing complication and revision rates
   

This level of planning is particularly important in regional settings, where access to subspecialist reconstruction expertise has traditionally been limited.

Dr Peter O’Donohue is a Specialist General Surgeon with additional training and a focused clinical practice in breast cancer surgery, including implant-based oncoplastic breast reconstruction.

He is a full member of Breast Surgeons of Australia and New Zealand (BreastSurgANZ) and has undertaken advanced training in contemporary breast cancer surgery and reconstruction techniques.

This training allows reconstruction to be considered as part of cancer surgery planning, rather than as an afterthought, supporting both oncological safety and long-term outcomes.

Dr O’Donohue consults and operates privately at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, offering implant-based reconstruction options locally for patients across the Darling Downs.

Implant-based reconstruction may be considered for patients who:

• Require or choose mastectomy
• Are suitable candidates based on body habitus and medical history
• Are suitable candidates based on body habitus and medical history
• Prefer implant-based reconstruction over other options
   

During consultation, suitability is assessed carefully, taking into account:

• Cancer type and stage
• Planned additional treatments (such as radiotherapy)
• Individual anatomy and preferences
• Overall health and recovery goals
   

Not all patients will benefit from implant-based reconstruction, and alternatives may be discussed where appropriate.

For suitable patients, implant-based reconstruction may offer:

• Restoration of breast shape following mastectomy
• Reconstruction performed at the time of cancer surgery
• Avoidance of donor site surgery elsewhere on the body
• Access to reconstruction close to home
   

Outcomes vary between individuals, and expectations are discussed in detail during consultation.