Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery · Breast (Reconstruction)

Reconstruction after mastectomy - carrying on Prof. Karaj's legacy.

Our historic oncoplastic speciality. Techniques: implant, DIEP, TRAM, latissimus. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is one of the most delicate procedures. Prof. Karaj was an oncoplastic specialist; his team carries on this legacy.

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What it is

Breast reconstruction.

With an implant:

  • Single-stage - direct implant
  • Two-stage - tissue expander, then implant

With the patient's own tissue (autologous):

  • DIEP flap - using abdominal tissue, without removing muscle (more modern)
  • TRAM flap - using abdominal tissue with muscle
  • Latissimus dorsi - using back muscle (for limited cases)
  • PAP / GAP flap - a modern alternative

It can be done immediately (during the mastectomy) or delayed (after radiotherapy).

How it works

The process, step by step.

01

Multidisciplinary assessment

Oncologist, plastic surgeon, anaesthesiologist. A decision on the technique.

02

Extended full anaesthesia

A complex procedure, lasting 4-8 hours.

03

The procedure

According to the technique - implant, DIEP, etc. Duration varies: 2 hours (implant) up to 8 hours (DIEP).

04

Post-operative care

2-5 nights in the clinic. Close monitoring for flap procedures.

Technical details

Procedure specifics.

Duration 2-8 hours (depending on technique)
Anaesthesia Full
Stay in hospital 2-5 nights
Recommended stay in Tirana 14-21 days
Total recovery 6-12 months
Recovery

Recovery timeline.

Week 1

Intensive monitoring. Drains placed. Moderate to pronounced pain.

Weeks 2-3

Drains removed gradually. Gentle mobilisation.

Month 1

Light activity. Shape begins to show.

Month 3+

Gradual return to full activity. Final result: 6-12 months. Small additional procedures (nipple tattooing, etc.) may be needed.

The ideal candidate

Is this right for you?

Good candidates
  • Post-mastectomy (breast cancer)
  • Good health after oncological treatment
  • Realistic expectations
This procedure is not suitable for:
  • Active oncological treatment (chemotherapy)
  • Serious uncontrolled conditions

The final assessment is made at the pre-operative consultation.

Price

A personalised quote request.

The cost depends on the type of procedure, the complexity of your case, the type of anaesthesia, any tests required and the length of your stay. Your final quote is provided after the free consultation.

Prices are shown in 3 currencies (ALL / EUR / GBP), managed from the panel, with no automatic conversion.

Ask about my price at the free consultation
Included in these packages:
PERSONALISED

Discussed individually with the oncoplastic team

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Hospital support

Inside Spitali Amavita.

The procedure is carried out as part of Spitali Amavita - 15+ years of heritage, a hospital-grade operating theatre, a medical anaesthesiologist, and post-operative assistance available 24/7 as needed. Not a standalone "aesthetic clinic".

Frequently asked questions

The questions we are asked most often.

Immediate or delayed?
Immediate reconstruction is preferred when possible. Delayed reconstruction is needed after radiotherapy.
Implant or DIEP?
Implant: simpler, faster. DIEP: more complex but more natural and long-lasting.
Is nipple reconstruction also done?
Yes, as a small additional procedure after the main recovery.
Is it covered by insurance?
With most insurers, yes - as part of oncological treatment.
Why Amavita for this?
Prof. Karaj's legacy in oncoplastic surgery, combined with training at Institut Gustave Roussy and a multidisciplinary team.
Do you have oncologists working with the team?
Yes, we work closely with the oncologists at Spitali Amavita.

The first step: a free consultation.

Book a free online consultation with our surgeons.

Or call: +355 69 336 0681

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