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Navigating Care in Japan

Mammogram & Screening

Self-Check Guide

What is Breast Reconstruction?

What is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is surgery to rebuild the shape of the breast after part or all of it has been removed—most often after mastectomy for breast cancer. It aims not only to restore body shape but also to improve the quality of life and psychological well-being after breast cancer treatment.

There are two main timings for when a patient receives surgery:

  • Immediate Reconstruction—done at the same time as mastectomy
  • Delayed Reconstruction – done after cancer treatment is completed

Each has pros and cons in terms of recovery and planning.

Common Methods Used in Japan

  1. Implant-Based Reconstruction
    • Uses medical implants to recreate breast shape
    • Covered by Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) if done after a total mastectomy
  2. Autologous Tissue Reconstruction
      • Uses your own tissue (from abdomen, back, etc.) to rebuild the breast
      • This may be covered under insurance
      • Compared to implant-based reconstruction, autologous tissue reconstruction is a more complex surgery and requires special surgical expertise
  3. Fat Grafting & Emerging Techniques
    • Other techniques such as fat transfer and regenerative medicine approaches are being studied, though some may not yet be fully covered by insurance.

Insurance & Cost

National Health Insurance covers breast reconstruction for women undergoing total mastectomy due to cancer. Partial reconstructions and elective cosmetic procedures may not be covered. Implant-based reconstruction has become more affordable due to insurance coverage, but costs can still vary by hospital and additional procedures.

Costs listed online may not reflect the full costs under the Japanese health system, so confirm with the clinic before making plans.

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