Breast Reconstruction with an Implant or Tissue Expander

This procedure is one of many different types of breast reconstruction available. They are broadly divided into implant based or autologous (using the patient’s own tissue) and include Breast Reconstruction with an Implant or Tissue Expander or Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi Flap.

Breast reconstruction with an implant or tissue expander will use a breast implant or tissue expander (expandable implant) to recreate the shape of a breast. It is usually performed in two stages. A tissue expander is placed, and over a number of weeks it is slowly filled with sterile saline through a small tube (port). Once the desired volume and breast size is reached, the expander is replaced with a fixed volume implant.

How long is the recovery time?

You should be able to go home after 1 night, and can expect to make a full recovery after 4 to 6 weeks.

It is important to continue with any exercises advised to help your recovery.

What results can patients expect?

Breast reconstruction aims to restore the shape and volume of the breast. This helps restore confidence and is an integral part of the road to recovery.

The shape of your reconstructed breast can take several weeks to settle. One advantage of this type of operation is that it causes very little scarring. But the breast won’t feel as natural as it would if made with living tissue. 

Need Help?

Breast reconstruction with an implant or tissue expander is available at One Hatfield Hospital in Hertfordshire.

You can’t usually use your private medical insurance for cosmetic surgery but you can pay directly for your Breast Reconstruction with an Implant or Tissue Expander treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages as well as the ability to spread the cost of your treatment over a number of months. If you are able to use your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at One Hatfield Hospital.

Why One Healthcare

• Modern purpose-built hospital opened in March 2016 (Ashford) December 2017 (Hatfield)
• Fast access to diagnostics including MRI, X-ray and Ultrasound
• Private, spacious, en-suite rooms
• Specialist Physiotherapy and nursing teams
• Little or no waiting time
• ‘Ultra clean air’ theatres
• Freshly prepared food
• Calm, dignified experience

Contact us and find out more

If you live in and around the Kent area and would like to visit our One Ashford Hospital please click here

If you are based in and around Hertfordshire and would like to visit the One Hatfield Hospital please click here.