Breast reconstruction is a type of cosmetic surgery usually used to replace a breast or breasts after mastectomy. Surgeons can't exactly re-create the breast; the new breast won't function in the same way that the original breast did, and it won't be as sensitive as the original breast. The new breast should, however, look and feel the same as the original breast.

The breast reconstruction procedure is generally performed by using a breast implant to reconstruct the missing breast. Sometimes, tissues from the patient's own body are used. Tissue, including fat and skin, may be taken from the buttocks, belly or back. Incisions are generally visible on the new breast, and may also be visible on the belly, back or buttocks (wherever tissue grafts were taken). 

A complete breast reconstruction often involves multiple procedures. The breast itself is generally formed from an implant or from tissue grafts; afterward, nipple reconstruction may be necessary, depending on the extent of the patient's mastectomy.

In many cases, breast reconstruction involves cosmetic surgery to both breasts. This may be true if a mastectomy of both breasts was performed. More often, however, slight alterations to the size and shape of the other breast are necessary. Ideally, both breasts should be similar in size and shape.

Some types of breast reconstruction surgery require lengthy hospitalization. Recovery from breast reconstruction can take several weeks, depending on the extent of the reconstruction.