Specialty skills in implant-based reconstruction
Formally known as Specialty Skills in Breast Surgery (Level 1), this is a two-day, hands-on course focused on the principles of post-mastectomy implant-based breast reconstruction.
Course Highlights
- Practical framework for assessing mastectomy patients for immediate or delayed implant reconstruction
- Live model workshops to translate classroom learning into pre-operative planning and marking
- Cadaveric sessions covering operative technique and reproducible approaches
- Guidance on implant selection and ordering to improve accuracy and confidence
- Psychological aspects of mastectomy and reconstruction
- Interactive oncoplastic MDT session to consolidate learning
Overview
Specialty skills in implant-based reconstruction is a two-day, hands-on course focused on the principles of post-mastectomy implant-based breast reconstruction. It provides a structured framework for patient assessment and selection, informed consent, and safe operative technique.
The course blends lectures and open Q&A with live model workshops and cadaveric operative technique sessions, concluding with an interactive oncoplastic MDT to consolidate learning and stimulate critical thinking. Small-group teaching is supported by a high faculty-to-delegate ratio (typically 2–3:1).
Programme Content
- Systematic patient assessment, selection and optimisation for implant reconstruction
- Informed consent and setting realistic expectations
- Reconstructive principles: envelope, pocket and implant choice
- Operative technique (in vitro and cadaveric)
- Implant selection and ordering
- Psychological considerations around mastectomy and reconstruction
- Oncoplastic MDT session (interactive)
Learning Objectives
- Assess and select suitable patients for immediate or delayed implant-based reconstruction
- Apply a safe, reproducible operative framework for implant reconstruction planning and delivery
- Translate theoretical knowledge into practical pre-operative marking and operative steps
- Order implants accurately and understand key considerations in implant choice
- Recognise the psychological impact of mastectomy and reconstruction and incorporate this into patient-centred care
- Use MDT discussion to support high-quality reconstructive decision-making
Why Attend?
If you are developing reconstructive capability within breast surgery, this course provides focused teaching and hands-on practice in the core principles of implant-based reconstruction. You will leave with a clearer approach to patient selection, operative planning, and common decision points, supported by close faculty supervision and interactive discussion.
This course is designed for:
- Higher surgical trainees (typically ST5–7) in breast surgery
- Non-training grades (e.g. staff grade/SAS) working in breast services
- Delegates seeking a structured introduction to implant-based breast reconstruction principles
