Tissue Expansion
Tissue expansion is a versatile reconstructive surgery technique that Dr. Levens may use during your procedure. The technique is typically chosen when the patient lacks enough tissue to cover and reconstruct an area of the body. Using tissue expansion, the body can grow extra skin for reconstructive surgery.
Good Candidates for Tissue Expansion
Tissue expansion is used during reconstructive procedures such as:
- Breast reconstruction
- Corrective surgery for birth defects
- Reconstruction after traumatic injury
If Dr. Levens determines that you should undergo a reconstructive procedure, he may recommend tissue expansion as part of the surgery.
What Happens During Tissue Expansion
Tissue expansion will usually be performed with a general anesthetic. Dr. Levens will inserts a balloon expander underneath the tissue, in a pocket created for the expander. This silicone expander will then be gradually filled with saline, stretching the overlying skin. The incisions are closed and the expander is left with a filling valve beneath your skin.
Follow-up procedures will take place during the weeks that follow. The expander is gradually filled until the skin has stretched adequately. After this point, you will be able to move forward in the reconstructive process.
Recovery from Tissue Expansion
The tissue expansion process can cause some discomfort and tightening of the skin, which can last for a few hours. After 3 or 4 days, you should be able to resume your normal routine. Recovery time varies depending on the procedure being performed. Dr. Levens will advise you about what to expect during the post-operative period following tissue expansion.
You can learn more about tissue expansion techniques in reconstructive surgery by contacting the Coral Springs plastic surgery office of Dr. David J. Levens. Our South Florida plastic surgery practice is located just 20 miles from Boca Raton and Ft. Lauderdale, and 40 minutes from Miami
