Advanced Breast Reconstruction and Lymphoedema Unit

Breast reconstructive surgery with personalised planning

The Advanced Breast Reconstruction and Lymphoedema Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital is dedicated to anatomical and functional restoration following treatment for breast cancer and other oncological conditions. Its work combines surgical precision, technical innovation and individualised clinical planning aimed at restoring bodily harmony and functionality, whilst always taking into account the oncological context and the patient’s safety.

Breast reconstruction is carried out either during the same surgical procedure as the cancer surgery (immediate reconstruction) or at a later stage (delayed reconstruction), depending on the medical indication and any complementary treatments received. Each case is analysed individually, taking into account the type of tumour, the need for radiotherapy, anatomical characteristics and functional expectations. The aim is not merely to restore volume or shape, but to achieve stable anatomical integration, with lasting results consistent with the patient’s clinical progress.

Highly complex reconstructive microsurgery using autologous tissue

The Unit has extensive experience in advanced reconstructive microsurgery techniques using autologous tissues, that is, using the patient’s own tissue. These techniques enable reconstructions with a natural appearance, a consistency similar to that of the original breast and harmonious development over time, avoiding the use of implants where clinical conditions warrant it.

Microsurgery enables unilateral or bilateral reconstructions, with particular attention paid to preserving the function of the donor sites and minimising sequelae. The suitability of each technique is determined following a detailed assessment, prioritising oncological safety, vascular viability and the long-term stability of the reconstructive result.

Specialist surgical treatment for lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is one of the most significant sequelae following axillary surgery and radiotherapy for breast cancer, and may manifest itself even years after cancer treatment. Its functional impact and effect on quality of life require a specialist assessment and a specific approach.

The Unit runs an advanced surgical programme for the treatment of lymphoedema using microsurgery and supermicrosurgery techniques, such as lymphatic-venous anastomoses and vascularised lymph node transfer. These procedures aim to improve lymphatic drainage, reduce the volume of the affected limb and slow the progression of the disease, always as part of a structured therapeutic strategy tailored to the clinical stage of the disease.

A multidisciplinary approach focused on functional recovery

Care is provided in close coordination with the Oncology, Gynaecology and other specialist departments at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital. This integration enables the establishment of safe care pathways, based on agreed criteria and scientific evidence, ensuring consistent care throughout all stages of the cancer care process.

The Unit focuses its practice on achieving complete and sustained functional recovery, with rigorous pre-operative assessment, individualised technical planning and structured medium- and long-term follow-up.

Every decision is made following a detailed assessment, with sufficient clinical time allocated to explain options, address concerns and support the patient through a process that goes beyond the strictly surgical aspect. The approach combines surgical expertise, specialised technology and sound medical judgement, integrating technical excellence and personalised care at every stage of reconstructive treatment.