Breast Tissue Expansion
Tissue expansion is a common technique used for breast reconstruction. This essentially involves expansion of the breast skin and muscle using a temporary tissue expander. After three to four weeks of the mastectomy, a salted solution will be injected into the expander to gradually fill it. This process is supported by a tiny valve mechanism located inside the expander and it will continue until its size is slightly larger than the other breast. Typically it can take several weeks to months to complete the process. This tissue expander is removed after a few months and microvascular flap reconstruction or the insertion of a permanent breast implant is done at the time. Chemotherapy or radiation is sometimes be recommended to by surgical oncologist following after mastectomy. These treatments delays the tissue expansion process by approximately four to eight weeks.Tissue expanders have silicone outer shells and either an internal valve or external port to allow for saline fluid injections.
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