Innovations and advancements in breast reconstruction

Over the past 20 years, there have been many innovations and advancements that have elevated the quality of breast reconstruction following partial or total mastectomy. These advancements have focused on improving surgical and aesthetic outcomes as well as reducing adverse events. As such, breast reconstruction has become an aesthetic procedure as much as it is a reconstructive procedure because plastic surgeons are now able to create a breast that has natural contour and symmetry and allow women to maintain full function. Some of the innovations and advancements include improved devices and techniques that optimize breast shape as well as various technologies that have facilitated our understanding of anatomy, physiology, perfusion, and monitoring.