As a general rule, immediate reconstruction allows for a better cosmetic result because the skin has not yet developed scar tissue. But not every woman is a candidate for immediate reconstruction. Those who have advanced breast cancer. Those who are not healthy emotionally, psychologically or physically. Women under severe emotional strain due to other, unrelated problems are sometimes advised to delay reconstruction until their lives become more stable.
Immediate reconstruction is an option for women who are going to have chemotherapy.
Delayed reconstruction gives them more time to consider their options and recover from the mastectomy. Ideally, women who desire delayed reconstruction should tell their physicians prior to a mastectomy, because a strategically placed mastectomy incision can enhance the outcome of reconstruction. Delayed reconstruction is recommended for women requiring post-operative radiation therapy or a bone marrow transplant. Thanks to refinements in breast reconstruction techniques over the last 10 years, women can choose from a variety of reconstructive options. All can be performed immediately following breast surgery or at a later date.