Delayed Reconstruction With Breast Implant (Two Stage)
Delayed two stage reconstruction, much like immediate two stage reconstruction, is a two surgery process used to reconstruct breast tissue after a mastectomy. Unlike the immediate two stage procedure, the surgical procedure to insert a tissue expander balloon is performed separately from the mastectomy surgery and requires a third and final surgery to complete the process.
Once the expander is in place it is inflated slowly by injecting a saline solution over the course of weeks or months to stretch the skin of the breast. When the expander is inflated enough to accommodate an implant of appropriate size, surgery can be performed to insert the implant that will remain permanently. In some cases, the expander can be left in place instead of a silicone or saline implant.
This procedure may also use a flap, a tissue graft from another area of the body, to supplement the remaining breast tissue or instead of an implant. The decision to use a flap should be made in consultation with a plastic surgeon as it is not appropriate for all patients.
