Implant Breast Reconstruction, The Woodlands, Kingwood, Conroe, North Houston

Implant based breast restoration can be a simpler process than an autologous (tissue-only) reconstruction. One benefit is that implant reconstruction generally requires less operative time than autologous procedures. However, one consideration is that implant based reconstruction is often a process requiring several weeks to months before completion.

In general, breast implant based reconstruction is achieved in two stages: First, a temporary tissue expander implant is placed at the time of the mastectomy. This temporary saline filled implant can be subsequently filled in the office to expand the skin to the desired volume. The second stage procedure removes the temporary tissue expander (which is often hard to the touch) and replaces it with a more natural feeling saline or silicone gel implant.

Another consideration is single-stage breast implant reconstructions using Alloderm®. Alloderm® is an acellular dermal matrix comprised of donated human tissue from which the cells have been removed washing away all immune components. Alloderm helps create a new envelope for the implant often facilitating a more natural looking breast.

Saline and silicone filled implants are FDA approved for use in the United States. Saline and new generation silicone gel breast implants are safe medical devices, but it should be pointed out that no medical device lasts forever. Also, extensive research shows that breast implants do not cause or increase the risk or frequency of illnesses.

Although safe, breast implants are foreign to the body and do have risks of infection, rupture, deflation, and/or scar formation around the implant – also called capsular contracture.

Patients choosing implant based breast reconstruction may require revision surgery in the future. Women who do not wish to face the possibility for revision surgery and who have a sufficient donor tissue often choose autologous tissue only reconstruction techniques.

Click here to schedule a consultation with The Woodlands
cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Kim, or call us at 281-363-4546