Join Now
Sign In
Is it always necessary to expand the chest for breast reconstruction?
Topic Tags:
Topic Tags:
Diseases:
Diseases:
1
Expert Answers
JoshLevineMD (Physician - Surgery - Plastic (Verified) ) - 05 / 24 / 2012
Expansion is a technique used in breast reconstruction when implant reconstruction is performed. Implants for breast reconstruction go underneath the chest muscle (pectoralis major). There is not enough space under this muscle such that the implant can be entirely covered at the time of mastectomy. Therefore an expander is placed under the muscle first. The expander is gradually filled with saline until the desired volume is achieved. This allows the muscle to stretch over time to accommodate the implant later on.
The idea is that the final implant must have thick tissue covering it, and skin alone is not enough. In order to avoid expansion, some plastic surgeons are now offering “direct to implant” procedures. To compensate for the lack of muscle coverage, a piece of cadaveric (from a cadaver) dermal tissue is used to support the implant below the muscle.
The idea is that the final implant must have thick tissue covering it, and skin alone is not enough. In order to avoid expansion, some plastic surgeons are now offering “direct to implant” procedures. To compensate for the lack of muscle coverage, a piece of cadaveric (from a cadaver) dermal tissue is used to support the implant below the muscle.
Similar Questions
Note: All content on this site is informational and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with questions regarding your health.
Note: Usernames have been made anonymous and profile images are not shown to protect the privacy of our members.
Thank you for flagging this content. We will look into it right away.
Add Answer
1) Question:
2) Background Info (optional): What context or background information is relevant to this request?
Notes:
The more clear and thorough your request, the more likely you will receive support.
Many of our members are learning from this information or english might not be their first language. Please use standard english and spell out all words. For example, use 'you' instead of 'u'.
The more clear and thorough your request, the more likely you will receive support.
Many of our members are learning from this information or english might not be their first language. Please use standard english and spell out all words. For example, use 'you' instead of 'u'.
Newsletters
Share Conversation
To tell people about this conversation, type their email addresses here (separated by commas):
From:
Add a personal note here:
Breast Cancer Updates
Sign up for our
Breast Cancer
updates for the latest news, best answers and featured experts.
Ads keep TalkAboutHealth freeadvertisement
Similar Questions
Updates
Sign up for email updates of the latest news, best answers, and featured experts.
Benefits
Custom health, wellness, & medical offers from our partners including clinical trials, market research opportunities & new programs.
SHARE Support
1) Call SHARE at: 866-891-2392
to speak directly to a trained breast cancer survivor for support and guidance.
2) Direct message the trained peer supporter you select.
3) E-mail us at support@talkabouthealth.com, and we will find the right match for you.
More info
to speak directly to a trained breast cancer survivor for support and guidance.
2) Direct message the trained peer supporter you select.
3) E-mail us at support@talkabouthealth.com, and we will find the right match for you.
More info
3 Quick Ways You Can Help
1) Spread the word! Tell people you think might want some support. Tell medical professionals, health providers, and organizations.
2) Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
3) Volunteer - email us at volunteer@talkabouthealth.com for more information.
More Ways To Help!
2) Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
3) Volunteer - email us at volunteer@talkabouthealth.com for more information.
More Ways To Help!
View All Newsletters
