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Breast Tissue Expander to Implant

What is a Tissue Expander to Implant Procedure?

A tissue expander to implant reconstruction is a two-stage option commonly chosen after mastectomy. This approach is often recommended when immediate implant placement isn’t possible—such as when additional healing time is needed after mastectomy or when radiation therapy is anticipated. 

Unlike a direct-to-implant reconstruction, the tissue expander method gives the body more time to adjust, making it a more cautious option for certain patients. 

It also differs from hybrid reconstruction, which combines a smaller implant with natural tissue for a softer, more natural look and feel.

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PRMA - Tissue Expanders - What are Tissue Expanders

Key Information

  • Two-Stage Process: Involves an initial surgery to place a temporary tissue expander, followed by a second surgery to insert the permanent implant. Fat grafting is also commonly included in the second stage to improve the soft tissue “padding” over the final implant. 
  • Gradual Expansion: The breast tissue expander is slowly filled over time to gently stretch the skin and muscle, preparing the area for the final implant.
  • Flexible Timing: Ideal for patients who need to delay final reconstruction due to healing, chemotherapy, or radiation.
  • More Control Over Final Shape: Expansion allows gradual adjustment of breast size and contour before permanent implant placement.
  • Not Immediate: Unlike direct-to-implant reconstruction, this method requires two separate surgeries, spaced weeks or months apart.
  • No Added Tissue: Unlike hybrid procedures, this method relies solely on implant volume—no natural tissue is used to enhance softness or shape.
  • May Not Be the Best Long-Term Option for Everyone: Patients looking for a more natural feel or long-lasting solution may prefer natural tissue-based reconstruction.
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What to Expect During Surgery

A breast tissue expander procedure is typically performed at the time of a mastectomy or soon after. A temporary tissue expander is placed beneath the chest muscle and skin, then gradually filled with saline over a period of weeks during quick in-office visits. This expansion gently stretches the skin to create space for the final implant.

Once the desired size is reached and any additional treatments are complete, you’ll have a second outpatient surgery to replace the expander with a permanent silicone or saline implant.

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Before & After

See real results from women who’ve trusted PRMA with their reconstruction journey.
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Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
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Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
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Before img-1
Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
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Before img-1
Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
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Recovery Timeline

  • Week 1:
    During the first week, you’ll feel sore and swollen, with some tightness in your chest. Pain is manageable with medication, and light walking is encouraged to help with circulation.
  • Week 2:
    Most discomfort will have improved by the second week, and you may have your drains removed at this stage. You can resume light tasks but should continue avoiding heavy lifting or overhead movement.
  • Weeks 3-4:
    Swelling decreases, and mobility continues to improve. By this time, many patients feel ready to return to work or regular routines, though strenuous activity is still limited.
  • Week 5-6
    Most daily activities can safely resume. With your surgeon’s approval, light exercise may begin, but avoiding anything that strains the chest area is still important.
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The Nation’s Destination for
Sensation Restoration

PRMA has transformed breast reconstruction with their revolutionary TruSense® procedure, a proprietary technique that restores breast sensation in qualified patients—giving back not just form, but feeling.
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Am I a Candidate for a Breast Tissue Expander?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for a breast tissue expander. Factors like overall health, prior treatments, and personal reconstruction goals all play a role in determining whether this implant-based reconstruction option is the best fit. 

You may be a strong candidate for a breast tissue expander if:

  • You’re undergoing a mastectomy and prefer implant-based reconstruction.
  • You need or plan to receive post-mastectomy radiation therapy.
  • There isn’t enough natural tissue available for flap-based reconstruction.
  • You prefer a shorter initial surgery and recovery time.
  • Your chest skin or muscle needs time to heal or stretch before placing a permanent implant.
  • You’re open to a staged reconstruction process involving two surgeries.
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Find Your Surgeon

PRMA’s board-certified, fellowship-trained microsurgeons perform over 1,000 DIEP flap procedures every year, making us one of the most experienced breast reconstruction centers in the world. Every surgery is performed by two microsurgeons, enhancing safety, precision, and outcomes—with a flap success rate of over 99%. With more than 15,000 reconstructions performed to date, our team delivers world-class expertise you can trust.
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Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo
Championing Advanced Breast Reconstruction Access Nationwide
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Dr. Gary Arishita
Dedicated to Restoring Confidence Through Expert Reconstruction
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Dr. Oscar Ochoa
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
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Dr. Gary Arishita
Dedicated to Restoring Confidence Through Expert Reconstruction
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Dr. Oscar Ochoa
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)

Will Insurance Cover a Mastectomy Tissue Expander?

In most cases, insurance will cover a tissue expander to implant procedure. Under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), all group health plans and insurers that cover mastectomy are also required to cover breast reconstruction, including procedures using tissue expanders and implants. 

At PRMA, our team works closely with patients and insurance providers to verify coverage and maximize benefits. 

For more information, visit [Insurance FAQs] in the patient resource center.

PRMA - Tissue Expanders - Preparing for surgery

Preparing for Surgery

Many of our patients travel in from all parts of the country for breast cancer surgery and reconstruction procedures. To help you prepare, our team will walk you through every step, from pre-op planning to travel arrangements, to ensure a smooth and supported experience.

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Preparing for Surgery
Travel Accomodations

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do implants last after reconstruction?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. While some can last 10–20 years or more, they may eventually need to be replaced due to wear, rupture, or cosmetic changes.
What will my reconstructed breast feel like with implants?
Since the nerves are often removed during mastectomy, most patients experience numbness in the breast area, though some may regain limited sensation over time. PRMA offers additional solutions like natural tissue reconstruction with TruSense® for patients seeking a more natural feel and sensory restoration.
Can I still have breast implants if I’ve had radiation therapy?
While implant-based reconstruction is still possible in some cases, PRMA often recommends natural tissue options—like the DIEP flap—for patients with a history of radiation, as they offer more durable, long-term results with fewer risks.
What are the risks or complications of implant-based reconstruction?
Like any surgery, implant-based reconstruction carries risks, including infection, implant rupture, capsular contracture, and changes in appearance over time. However, PRMA’s experienced team will walk you through all risks and help you decide whether implants or a natural tissue option best suits your goals and health.

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