Implant Reconstruction Revision

Breast Implant Types

You can choose between two types of breast implants for your breast augmentation. These include silicone and saline implants.

Silicone Implants

This is the more common variation of implants. Silicone implants mimic the feel of a natural breast and contain silicone. The implant is made of a silicone shell and is also filled with medical grade silicone gel to give the implant are more soft, natural feel. Over the years, implant technology has significantly improved, and silicone gel filled implants are much more durable than ever before.

Saline Implants

Saline implants are made of the same silicone shell as silicone gel filled implants, however they are filled with sterile salt water. Saline implants in general feel firmer and have more rippling than silicone gel filled implants, which can make them feel overall less realistic and natural. If the implant ruptures, the sterile salt water is naturally absorbed and released from the body which results in an immediate volume deflation on the chest.

Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage Implant Reconstruction

When receiving breast reconstruction, you can decide between a single-stage or two-stage reconstruction.

Single Stage Breast Reconstruction (Direct to Implant)

During a single stage reconstruction, the final implant is placed at the time of the mastectomy without the need for tissue expanders. This is ideal for patients who are overall healthy, non-smokers and want to avoid two surgeries.

Two Stage Breast Reconstruction (Tissue Expander/Implant)

During a two-stage reconstruction, a tissue expander is inserted into the mastectomy pocket to slowly expand the space over several weeks. After the final size is reached with the tissue expander, a second surgery is planned for exchanging the expander to the final implant. This procedure requires two surgeries and multiple office visit with your plastic surgeon to achieve the desired volume of expansion over a period of several weeks. The final implant is usually placed two months after the initial surgery.

Breast Implant Reconstruction Incisions 

Breast implant reconstruction incisions fall into three categories: inframammary incisions, vertical incisions, and transverse incisions. It is best to consult with your doctor when deciding on the right incision for your needs.

Inframammary Incision

An inframammary incision is placed at the inflammatory fold just under the breast.

Vertical Incision

Vertical incisions include the classic vertical incision, circum-vertical incision, as well as anchor or “wise pattern” incision.

Transverse Incision

Transverse incisions include the lateral incision, circum-lateral incision, and transverse incision.

Breast Implant Reconstruction Pockets

Above the Muscle (“Pre-Pectoral Pocket”)

This option involves placement of the breast implant under the skin and over the chest muscle.

Under the Muscle (“Sub-Pectoral Pocket”)

Often referred to as submuscular, this involves the placement of the breast implant under the pectoralis major muscle.