Tissue Expander Reconstruction
Non-Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction with tissue expanders is one method used to rebuild a woman’s breast following a mastectomy.
The goal of breast reconstruction is to match the affected breast as closely as possible in shape and size to the natural breast. In the case of bilateral reconstruction (both breasts), this procedure allows for greater flexibility in size, selection and symmetry. Dr. Van Laeken will help you determine if this is an appropriate procedure for you. She will review the surgical techniques and share with you, before and after photos at the time of your consultation.
This procedure can be done either at the time of the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or later (delayed reconstruction).
Breast reconstruction makes many women feel better about their appearance, however, it is important, to be realistic about the expected outcomes. A reconstructed breast won’t look exactly like your original breast nor will the sensation be similar.
This procedure can take up to one year to fully complete and requires three operative procedures.
Tissue Expanders
Candidates for Breast Reconstruction with Tissue Expanders
- Patients who have had a mastectomy (Note: Not an option for patients who have had a radical mastectomy. This was an operation done many years ago whereby the chest muscle (Pectoralis) was removed. It is rarely performed today).
- Healthy women not requiring radiation. For those who do need radiation, the recommendation to proceed with this type of reconstruction will be decided on an individual basis).
- Thin women with very little body fat are not candidates for a Tram Procedure and therefore, may opt for breast reconstruction with tissue expanders and later breast implants.
Procedure Video
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