Breast Reconstruction with Implant Two Years after Breast Cancer Treatment: Physical and Emotional Impact on the Patient's Holistic Recovery. Case Report

Breast reconstruction is an essential component of the comprehensive approach to patients treated for breast cancer—not only due to its aesthetic and functional benefits, but also for its positive impact on self-esteem, body image, and quality of life. This report describes the case of a 47-year-old patient diagnosed with infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the left breast, treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, modified radical mastectomy, and adjuvant radiotherapy. Due to poor quality of the surgical bed following radiotherapy, an initial autologous split-thickness skin graft was performed to improve tissue quality. Two years later, after a favorable multidisciplinary evaluation, definitive breast reconstruction was carried out using a silicone implant, along with contralateral mastopexy for symmetry. Postoperative evolution was satisfactory, with no surgical complications and a significant improvement in body image perception and emotional well-being. This case highlights the importance of individualized reconstructive treatment that considers both clinical and emotional factors, and demonstrates that delayed reconstruction with an implant can be a safe and effective strategy for achieving holistic recovery in breast cancer survivors.