Tissue expansion in tuberous breast surgery
Some women may have a specific type of tuberous breasts, where the skin of the breasts is particularly tight. In these cases, Dr. Courtney may recommend a period of tissue expansion. This is a procedure done to stretch out the breast skin prior to the placement of a permanent implant. The tissue expander is an inflatable implant that is placed beneath the skin and breast tissue. Through a small valve in the expander, saltwater is gradually injected over a period of about three months.
Once the expansion is complete, your breast skin will be given another three months to reform and accommodate this new size. A second surgery is planned upon the completion of this step. In this second surgery, the expander is removed and replaced with a permanent silicone or saline implant. Dr. Courtney will consult, discuss your options and goals, and then recommend the size, shape, and type of implant that will create the results you want to see.