Implant-Based Reconstruction Oakland

Implant-based reconstruction for mastectomy can be done in either one stage, where a permanent implant is placed at the time of mastectomy, or in two stages, where a temporary implant called an expander is placed at the first stage and switched to a permanent implant at the second stage. The decision on which approach to use is based on pre-mastectomy breast size and shape, patient goals, and intra-operative assessment following mastectomy.

The main benefit of implant-based reconstruction is that no large additional scars outside of the breast are needed and the post-operative recovery is often easier, with a typical two-week recovery period. Implant-based reconstruction frequently includes fat grafting at the second stage of reconstruction in order to help give the most natural appearance of the breast following reconstruction.