Tissue Expansion
Tissue expansion surgery is a technique used in plastic and reconstructive surgery to grow additional skin and tissue in a specific area of the body to replace damaged skin .
Reconstructive procedure
This reconstructive procedure is an option for almost any area of the body and Mr Ferrando can repair skin that has been damaged by both congenital and acquired defects.
Tissue expansion has become more widespread particularly in breast reconstruction, burn surgery and paediatric plastic surgery. It is important to note that there are no non- surgical options for tissue expansion.
Who is it useful for?
This method is particularly useful for individuals who need reconstructive surgery after an injury or illness, or for those who want to improve the appearance of a specific area.
The tissue expansion procedure involves inserting a silicone balloon-like device called an expander under the skin near the area to be treated.
The expander is gradually filled with saline solution over several weeks or months, which stretches and expands the skin and tissue over time.This creates new, healthy skin that can be used to reconstruct the affected area.
Once the skin has expanded enough, the expander is removed, and the newly grown skin and tissue are used to reconstruct the affected area.
Tissue expansion surgery is commonly used for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, to repair skin and tissue damage caused by burns, or to correct congenital defects such as cleft palate.
Consultation
Your consultation for plastic surgery with Mr Ferrando is an important step in the process of considering and undergoing cosmetic or reconstructive procedures.
This initial meeting allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure. It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have. You will look at the “before and after” images of previous patients and get further information you need to make a decision.
Mr Ferrando will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam. He will then discuss all options suitable for you and explain each stage of the procedure or treatment. The exact procedure depends on the anatomy of the patient.
Our team believes that a well-informed, comfortable patient is one of the most important elements of the process. Whether you move forward with surgery or simply learn more, Dr Ferrando is looking forward to meeting you!
Procedure
The procedure is usually performed in two stages. The first stage is when an expander ( or ballon) is inserted underneath the skin and is inflated by injecting it with saline water or air.
The second stage is when the area being treated is cut out and the the new expanded skin is used to close the hole. There must be full expansion otherwise there might not be enough skin to compete this second procedure. Sometimes the process might need to be repeated.
Anaesthesia and length of the procedure
The operations are performed under general anaesthesia and separated by a number of weeks to allow for sufficient tissue expansion.
Recovery
Patients may experience some discomfort and swelling during the expansion process, and may require pain medication or other treatments to manage these symptoms.
Risks and Side Effects
All surgeries carry certain risks and even though they are rare you should be aware of them before making your decision. Mr Ferrando will talk you through any possible risks and side effects at his consultations as they will vary depending on the patient’s anatomy, age, physical condition and lifestyle.
During his procedures and treatments, he does everything possible to minimise the risk of complications by practicing a meticulously detailed approach and applying his world-class training background.
Book your consultation
Popular Searches
Get in touch
This initial contact allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure.
It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have and get further information you need to make a decision.