[Breast reconstruction with temporary tissue expander]

Abstract

Tissue expansion in breast reconstruction is a technique based on a simple principle but subjected to numerous traps. Its success relies on the patient selection, a good preparation of the skin pocket, no rush during the inflating time, and a specific care during the definitive implant placement inside the skin pocket. This article aims to list and detail point-by-point the different surgical timings, their practical application, the pitfalls and the possible traps to avoid, in order to succeed in breast reconstruction using tissue expander.

Keywords: Advancement flap; Breast implant; Breast reconstruction; Expansion tissulaire; Lambeau d’avancement; Neo-inframammary fold; Néo-sillon; Prothèse mammaire; Reconstruction mammaire; Tissue expansion.