There are two basic methods for reconstruction surgery. The main difference is whether you use an artificial material (like silicone or saline) for your implant, or use your own tissue, taken from elsewhere in your body, to re-create a breast form.

USING AN ARTIFICIAL MATERIAL:
A surgeon uses an artificial substance like a saline filled implant to create a breast form that is placed under your pectoral muscle. Saline is simply a salt water solution.

USING YOUR OWN TISSUE:
In this method a flap of skin, muscle, and fat is taken from your abdomen (or back, or buttocks). The flap is moved to the opening in your chest and then the tissue is sewn back into place.