Patient: I had a total mastectomy on my left side in 2004, but it was benign and I did not have chemotherapy. I always wanted to have a reconstruction, but I was afraid of any negative consequences or too much scarring elsewhere, so I never did. I am relatively thin, so if I reconstruct the healthy side, what method will I use if I also make it bigger? Or should I use my own body? If my breasts are smaller, will there be less cuts on my stomach and less scarring? What is the total cost? Yin Jian, Department of Breast Oncology, Tianjin Cancer Hospital: Generally, according to the size and shape of the healthy side of the breast, the way of breast reconstruction on the affected side is chosen. If the breast on the healthy side is small, the back tissue can be used for breast reconstruction. If the breast on the healthy side is larger, or the breast is sagging, the breast can be reconstructed using abdominal tissue. The need for surgery on the healthy side of the breast and the type of surgery required will depend on the circumstances and individual wishes. Second stage breast reconstruction usually costs about $15,000. This includes the cost of pre-operative examination, surgery, anesthesia, anti-inflammatory treatment, etc. The hospital stay is approximately 10-14 days.