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Abstract Breast cancer is currently the top cancer in women worldwide. Techniques that are used in treatment of this disease have evolved through the years to eradicate the tumor cells completely while restoring the patients’ pre-disease state. Breast conservative surgery has gained enormous popularity because it appears to eradicate breast cancer without increased recurrence at primary site, yet preserving a maximal volume of breast tissue. Breast conservation therapy preserves the breast and often reduces the demand for reconstruction of post mastectomy defects. Some women undergo partial mastectomy with radiation and maintain excellent breast symmetry and contouring. Others show more noticeable deformities that might require secondary revision or completion mastectomy with reconstruction. Breast reconstruction is a vital component in the management of breast cancer. Reconstruction lessens the psychological and physical burden of the diagnosis. A spectrum of techniques is available from which the patient and surgeon can choose. These techniques can involve non autologus (breast implants), autologous tissue, or both. Each surgeon should discuss with the patient about the advantages and disadvantages of all methods of breast reconstruction to assist her to determine the most appropriate one. The main point is that all women who undergo mastectomy should be offered reconstruction in case it meets their personal needs and alleviates some of the psychological strain of malignancy. Timing of breast reconstruction after mastectomy involves many factors that are important in choosing between three options immediate, delayed, or “delayed-immediate” reconstruction. Delayed reconstruction is indicated when post-mastectomy radiotherapy is required, or likely to be required.. Delayed reconstruction can be technically challenging because of radiotherapy. Controversy remains over the possible detrimental effects of adjuvant radiotherapy on immediate breast reconstruction. A numberof studies have shown that radiation after immediate reconstructiongives poor results and compromises aesthetic results. When breasts that have been reconstructed with implants are subjected to radiotherapy, complications may arise and these can include impaired skin healing, fibrosis, implant extrusion and capsular contractures. |