Breast reconstruction often involves more than one procedure, because it usually takes two or more surgeries to complete the reconstruction process while allowing time to heal in between. Sometimes, the process involves a revision procedure. Other times, a follow-up surgery may be necessary to achieve symmetry, while other procedures may be performed to reconstruct the areola or apply a nipple tattoo. “Everyone is different in terms of what she needs and wants, and this is something every patient should discuss with her surgeon,” Dr. Liu says.