Table 2.

Types of breast reconstruction: Alloplastic versus autologous.

TYPE	IDEAL CANDIDATE	ADVANTAGES	DISADVANTAGES	COMPLICATIONS
Alloplastic (implant-based)	Average to thin body habitus (no excess tissue for autologous)	No donor site Shorter surgery Fewer short-term complications Fewer scars Faster recovery	Often multistage endeavour Longer timeline to completion Difficult to achieve symmetry in unilateral cases Requires implant maintenance and exchange	Capsular contracture Malposition Rupture Implant rippling or visibility Less natural look and feel
Autologous (tissue-based)	Requires adequate excess soft tissue at donor site Minimal major comorbidities Not obese	Use of own tissue Natural look and feel that changes with patient over time Easier symmetry in unilateral cases	Large donor site Longer, more technically challenging procedure Longer recovery More short-term complications	Partial or complete flap failure Donor-site morbidity including wound dehiscence, weakness, hernia, or bulge