MED0001860545
Read more here This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks.
This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks.
MED0001860545: This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks.
Read more here
Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Henry Shepherd offers reconstructive surgery in Sydney, including breast reconstruction, skin cancer surgery and scar revision.
ABOUT Reconstructive SURGERY
It's a substantial part of plastic and reconstructive surgery as a specialty, and it's an area where the operations are generally clinically indicated rather than elective, with different considerations around eligibility, cost and timing compared with cosmetic surgery.
Patients often come to reconstructive surgery through a referral pathway rather than directly. Breast reconstruction referrals typically come through breast surgeons following cancer treatment. Skin cancer reconstruction referrals commonly come from dermatologists or general practitioners following a diagnosis or excision. Scar revision may be referred by a GP or specialist where a scar is causing functional or symptomatic problems. The information within this section is intended to give an overview of what these procedures involve for patients who are being referred or considering referral, and to sit alongside the more detailed conversations that happen at consultation.
WHAT EVERY Reconstructive PROCEDURE INVOLVES
Whichever procedure suits your situation, certain things stay constant.
01
Every procedure begins with examination, listening, and a frank discussion of alternatives — including not operating.
02
All breast surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in accredited Sydney private hospitals.
03
Most procedures involve one night in hospital, a defined return-to-work window, then a longer window before unrestricted activity.
Can't find what you're looking for? Contact the rooms directly and we'll be happy to help.
Contact UsYes. A referral from a general practitioner or treating specialist is required. For patients being referred following mastectomy or skin cancer treatment, the referral usually comes through the treating team. For patients considering scar revision on their own initiative, a GP referral is generally the starting point.
Generally yes, where the reconstruction is clinically indicated. This applies to breast reconstruction after mastectomy for cancer, reconstruction after skin cancer excision, and scar revision for functional problems. Private health insurance also generally covers reconstructive procedures at Medicare-eligible levels. Cosmetic elements aren't covered. We'll assess your specific eligibility at consultation.
The distinction is based on the clinical indication rather than the operation itself. The same surgeon uses many of the same techniques for both, but reconstructive surgery is performed to restore form and function after cancer treatment, injury or a congenital condition, while cosmetic surgery is performed for aesthetic reasons in the absence of a specific medical indication. Medicare and private health cover applies to reconstructive procedures but generally not to cosmetic ones.
Public reconstructive work is performed at St Vincent's and St George Hospitals. Private reconstructive surgery is performed at accredited private hospitals across Sydney, including St Vincent's Private, St George Private, East Sydney Private, Bondi Junction Private, St Lukes Private and Aesthetic Day Surgery.
The timing depends on the specifics of the cancer treatment and personal preference. Some patients have immediate reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy. Others have delayed reconstruction some time afterwards, sometimes years later. The right approach is worked out with the treating team, and we'll be part of that conversation where appropriate.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Results and individual outcomes will vary.
