Your Body Your Choice
Expander/Implant Reconstruction at Athenaa

What is Expander/Implant Reconstruction

Expander/implant reconstruction is a widely used and less invasive approach to breast reconstruction after mastectomy. This two-stage technique involves initially placing a temporary tissue expander beneath the chest muscle and skin, followed by its gradual inflation over time. Once the desired breast volume is achieved, the expander is replaced with a permanent silicone or saline implant to complete the reconstruction.

At Apollo Athenaa, we offer this technique as a safe and effective option for suitable candidates, particularly those looking for shorter recovery periods and those not eligible for autologous tissue reconstruction.

How the Procedure
is Performed

At Apollo Athenaa, every surgical step is carefully planned and performed by experienced surgeons with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery.

After removal of the breast tissue, the breast skin (and nipple, when possible) is preserved to create a natural envelope for reconstruction.
A tissue expander or, in selected cases, a permanent implant is placed beneath the chest muscle or in a pre-pectoral position, depending on anatomy and treatment plan.
A mesh may be used to support the implant, improve contour, and provide additional coverage.
If a tissue expander is placed, it is slowly filled with saline over several weeks during outpatient visits to stretch the skin safely.
Once the desired breast size is achieved, a second short surgery is performed to replace the expander with a permanent silicone or saline implant.
Surgical drains are placed temporarily to prevent fluid build-up.
Minor contouring or symmetry procedures may be performed to achieve a balanced, natural appearance.

Recovery

Healing at Apollo Athenaa is supported through structured post-operative care,
counselling, and rehabilitation support.

Expansion Phase

Over 2–3 months, the tissue expander is gradually filled during outpatient visits. Mild tightness or discomfort is common and usually well controlled.

Exchange Surgery

The second procedure to place the permanent implant has a shorter recovery, typically around 2–3 weeks.

Activity Guidance

Most routine activities can be resumed soon after the implant exchange, while heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks.

Ongoing Follow-Up

Regular follow-ups are essential throughout both stages to monitor healing, assess tissue response, and optimize the final aesthetic outcome.

Key
Advantages

At Apollo Athenaa, surgery is thoughtfully planned with a personalized approach, ensuring safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.

Shorter Surgery

Implant-based reconstruction avoids tissue harvesting, making the initial surgery shorter and less complex than flap procedures.

Volume Control

The tissue expander allows gradual adjustments, helping achieve optimal breast size and symmetry before final implant placement.

Technical Simplicity

No microsurgery is required, reducing operative complexity and shortening both surgical stages.

Predictable Recovery

Recovery timelines are generally more predictable, with less donor-site pain and quicker return to daily activities.

Continuum of Care

At Apollo Athenaa, our teams remain involved at every stage, ensuring that recovery is not only physical, but also emotional and empowering. Each woman is supported through

Post-operative care, including incision care, drain management, expander site monitoring, and guidance for scar healing.

Expansion phase support, with scheduled clinic visits for saline fills, monitoring skin and tissue response, and managing temporary tightness or discomfort.

Rehabilitation and recovery, including physiotherapy to restore shoulder mobility and posture, supported by nutritional guidance for optimal healing.

Emotional and long-term care, addressing body image concerns, preparing for final implant exchange, and ensuring continued follow-up and survivorship support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a good candidate for expander/implant reconstruction?

01

This option is suitable for many women undergoing mastectomy who prefer a less extensive surgery and do not wish to use tissue from another part of the body. It is especially appropriate for women with adequate skin quality and those who may not be ideal candidates for flap-based reconstruction due to medical or anatomical reasons.

Will the expander be visible or noticeable under the skin?

02

The expander sits beneath the chest muscle or reconstructed breast skin and may feel firm or tight during the expansion phase. While it can be noticeable initially, this is temporary and improves once the permanent implant is placed.

Does radiation therapy affect implant-based reconstruction?

03

Radiation can impact healing and cosmetic outcomes in implant-based reconstruction. In some cases, the expander is placed first and the final implant is delayed until radiation is completed, or alternative reconstructive options may be discussed to achieve the best long-term result.

How long does the tissue expander stay in place?

04

The expander is typically in place for several months. This allows gradual stretching of the skin and muscle and ensures the tissues are ready before replacing the expander with a permanent implant.

How long do breast implants last after reconstruction?

05

Breast implants are durable but not considered lifetime devices. While many last 10–15 years or longer, they may need replacement in the future due to wear, changes in the body, or personal preference.

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Your Body Your Choice Expander/Implant Reconstruction at Athenaa

Your Body Your Choice
Expander/Implant Reconstruction at Athenaa