While many options exist, one of the most common autologous options is to use one’s own abdominal tissue. This is sometimes called a DIEP flap based on the blood supply of the tissue that is harvested from the abdomen.

The advantages of using ones own tissue include:
· Best possible shape and feel in the reconstructed breast.
· A breast that moves and ages naturally.
· Avoiding all implant related problems.

Some disadvantages include longer operating time, longer hospital stay and longer recovery. Of course, additional incisions are required to harvest donor tissue.

Compared to using autologous tissue, implant based reconstruction does not require additional incision in other areas of the body. As a result, operation time and hospital stays are generally shorter, and recovery quicker. However, while excellent results can be achieved with implant based reconstruction, implants themselves can carry its own risks and may not achieve the same shape and feel of a breast reconstructed using autologous tissue.

Breast reconstruction represents a special area of expertise for Mr Lin, who has pursued fellowship training in the United Kingdom with world renowned Professor Venkat Ramakrishnan in microsurgical breast reconstruction. He is a member of the breast reconstruction team at Epworth Eastern Private Hospital, Eastern Health and Peninsula Health, and works closely with breast cancer surgeons and oncologist at these institutions.