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Review
. 2017:2017:1791546.
doi: 10.1155/2017/1791546. Epub 2017 Dec 10.

Two-Stage Tissue-Expander Breast Reconstruction: A Focus on the Surgical Technique

Elisa Bellini  1   2 , Marianna Pesce  3 , PierLuigi Santi  3 , Edoardo Raposio  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Two-Stage Tissue-Expander Breast Reconstruction: A Focus on the Surgical Technique

Elisa Bellini et al. Biomed Res Int. 2017.

Abstract

Objective: Breast cancer, the most common malignancy in women, comprises 18% of all female cancers. Mastectomy is an essential intervention to save lives, but it can destroy one's body image, causing both physical and psychological trauma. Reconstruction is an important step in restoring patient quality of life after the mutilating treatment.

Material and methods: Tissue expanders and implants are now commonly used in breast reconstruction. Autologous reconstruction allows a better aesthetic result; however, many patients prefer implant reconstruction due to the shorter operation time and lack of donor site morbidity. Moreover, this reconstruction strategy is safe and can be performed in patients with multiple health problems. Tissue-expander reconstruction is conventionally performed as a two-stage procedure starting immediately after mammary gland removal.

Results: Mastectomy is a destructive but essential intervention for women with breast cancer. Tissue expansion breast reconstruction is a safe, reliable, and efficacious procedure with considerable psychological benefits since it provides a healthy body image.

Conclusion: This article focuses on this surgical technique and how to achieve the best reconstruction possible.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Implant placement into the submuscular pocket.
Figure 2
Figure 2
(a) A 45-year-old patient before mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. (b) The same patient after tissue expansion and implant reconstruction, showing the final result.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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