Chest wall reconstruction attempts to restore patient physiologic and functional outcomes following oncologic resection. The use of specific restorative techniques and materials to optimize respiratory mechanics continue to be debated within the literature. However, there are several generally accepted indications for chest wall reconstruction that may improve functional recovery following resection. Unfortunately, studies often vary in the outcome published, time to follow up, and degree of functional restitution, underscoring the need for more standardized long-term reporting.