Tissue expander-to-implant breast reconstruction at Ginger Slack, MD offers a structured approach to restoring the body after breast cancer. This two-stage technique gradually creates space for a final implant, achieving a natural, beautiful contour. Dr. Slack guides and supports her patients through each step of the procedure to help them feel whole again.
Restore your breast shape gradually in two stages
Tissue expander-to-implant reconstruction is a two-stage process for restoring breast shape after a mastectomy. In the first stage, a temporary tissue expander is placed under your chest muscle or skin to gradually create space. Over time, it’s filled with saline to gently stretch the tissue. Once your skin has adapted, the second stage of the procedure replaces the expander with a soft, natural-looking implant. This approach allows for a customized breast shape that complements your body, helping you feel confident in your body again.
Benefits of tissue expander-to-implant reconstruction:
- Gradual expansion allows your skin to adjust naturally
- Final implant size can be customized to your aesthetic goals
- Less initial surgery and recovery time compared to flap-based reconstruction
- No need for additional donor site surgery on your body
- Provides a smooth, natural breast shape with modern implant options
- Shorter overall procedure time compared to some autologous reconstruction methods
- Allows flexibility in choosing implant type and size for best results
What Happens During the Tissue Expander-To-Implant Procedure?
The tissue expander-to-implant reconstruction is a two-stage process to restore your breast shape gradually. Here’s what you can expect:
Stage 1: Tissue expander placement
During your first surgery, Dr. Slack will place a temporary tissue expander under your chest muscle or remaining skin. This acts like a balloon, creating space for your future implant. If you’re having a mastectomy at the same time, she may place the expander immediately. Over the next few weeks or months, she will gradually fill the expander with saline through a small valve, allowing your skin to stretch comfortably.
Stage 2: Implant exchange
Once your skin has adjusted to the desired size with the expander, you’ll have a second, shorter surgery to remove the expander and place a soft, natural-looking breast implant. This final step completes your breast reconstruction journey, giving you a beautifully shaped breast that complements your body. Dr. Slack will ensure your results look balanced, natural, and symmetrical, helping you regain confidence in your appearance.
What Can I Expect During the Consultation?
During your consultation, Dr. Slack will take the time to understand your goals, medical history, and any previous treatments. She will examine your chest, assess your skin and tissue quality, and discuss whether tissue expander-to-implant reconstruction is right for you. You’ll learn about the procedure, timeline, and expected recovery, and she will explain implant choices to help you achieve the most natural-looking result. Dr. Slack will answer all your questions, ensuring you feel informed, comfortable, and empowered to make the best decision for your body.
Will My Breasts Look and Feel Natural?
Yes! Dr. Slack carefully tailors your reconstruction to create a balanced shape that complements your body. Modern implants offer a soft, realistic feel, and over time, your breast will settle into a more natural appearance. While sensation may be reduced after a mastectomy, many patients report that their breasts feel more like their own as healing progresses. Dr. Slack will guide you in choosing the right implant type and size to achieve the best results.
What can I expect during recovery after tissue expander-to-implant?
After the first stage, where Dr. Slack places the tissue expander, you can expect tightness and discomfort as your skin adjusts. Most patients return to light activities within one to two weeks, but you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about four to six weeks. Over the next weeks, Dr. Slack will fill the expander with saline at follow-up visits. You may feel mild pressure after each expansion, but this is temporary and well-managed with medication.
For the second stage, when the expander is replaced with a permanent implant, recovery is typically faster and easier. Most patients resume normal daily activities within one week, with only minimal discomfort. Swelling subsides within a few weeks, and your final results become more visible as your tissues settle over a few months. Dr. Slack will provide detailed, personalized aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.
Why choose Dr. Ginger Slack?
Dr. Ginger Slack is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a microsurgery fellowship, specializing in breast reconstruction. Known for her meticulous surgical skills and compassionate approach, she takes the time to understand your goals and create results that look natural, beautiful, and uniquely yours. With experience in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, she blends technical precision with an artist’s eye to restore your confidence. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Slack to explore your options and take the next step toward feeling whole again.
