WHICH IS?

Immediate breast reconstruction with silicone expanders has gained greater relevance in the treatment of breast cancer. This technique allows for a better quality of life for mastectomized patients, reducing the feeling of mutilation and favoring faster social reintegration.

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Reconstructions with expanders began to be used in the 1980s and the evolution of the oncologic surgical technique allows greater preservation of the skin and pectoralis major, minor and serrato muscles.

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Breast expanders are prostheses with a silicone elastomer shell. Unlike ordinary prostheses, it does not have silicone gel. The expanders are placed in a full submuscular position, offering complete protection and allowing for even expansion.

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INDICATIONS

Breast cancer in early stages, with disease controlled oncologically, with both chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

HOW IS IT DONE?

Once the mastectomy has been performed and the surgical margins are free of disease, the expander is placed at the submuscular level. After 3 to 4 weeks, expansion begins with a saline solution, through a valve hidden under the skin, at one end of the skin. When the expansion desired by the surgeon is achieved, the replacement is performed with a definitive prosthesis.

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TYPE OF ANESTHESIA

Usually, general anesthesia is used.

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ADMISSION TIME

Generally 24 hours.

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COMPLICATIONS

Complications may occur, such as: hematoma, infection, opening of stitches, pain, rejection of the expander or asymmetries.

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DEFINITIVE RESULTS

The results of placing the expander are progressive and, depending on the size chosen, there are different capacities. The expander is filled with saline solution gradually every 10 to 14 days, until reaching the desired volume. Generally, one year after the expansion of the expander and if there are no complications during the expansion process, a second surgery is performed, in which the expander is replaced by the permanent breast implant.