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breast reconstruction: state of the art nowadays most plastic surgery units worldwide perform breast reconstruction and hence basic updated knowledge in the topic is mandatory for every plastic surgeon and trainee. Breast reconstruction may be performed either immediately after mastectomy or in a delayed fashion. Each of these timings has its advantages and drawbacks and albeit there are a number of factors influencing the decision to perform one or another, probably the most important one has to do with the delivery of radiotherapy. In this sense, while in patients who are candidates for post mastectomy radiation, a delayed reconstruction is strongly recommended, in those without adjuvancy, immediate reconstruction is a very good alternative. In general terms, breast reconstruction techniques fall into one of three groups: those using alloplastic materials only; those performed with autologous tissue only; and those using a combination of both alloplastics and autologous tissue. Again the administration of radiotherapy, as well as patient and surgeon-related factors, play a fundamental role when choosing anyone technique. Finally, during the last years there has been growing interest and evidence on the use of acellular dermal matrices for breast reconstruction, which have expanded the armamentarium of techniques available for these patients. The following paper aims to provide an updated review on breast reconstruction regarding timing of reconstruction, techniques available, the influence of radiotherapy and the use of acellular dermal matrices.