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Certain reconstruction procedures require the patients’ bodies to grow extra skin right next to the surgical site. It is called tissue expansion and can benefit all ages—from infants to senior citizens. The extra tissue lets a plastic surgeon repair skin damaged by congenital and acquired defects, as well as when there’s insufficient skin to cover a permanent breast implant after the breast’s removal.
The office of MOSA Surgery is a welcoming and respectful environment. We have fostered an atmosphere in which patients feel heard, respected and genuinely cared for. We take the time to thoroughly explain treatment options and involve patients in their own care decisions.
Tissue expansion promotes the growth of healthy supplementary skin to replace damaged skin, and it’s an option for almost any area of the body. It’s most visually pleasing when reconstructing some areas of the arms, legs, hands, face and neck—and perfect for the scalp due to its unique epidermal composition.
Tissue expansion has many advantages over its two predecessors: skin grafts and skin flaps. The extension is a near-seamless duplication of the area it’s intended to cover. More significantly, the expanded skin stays connected to the patient’s nerve and blood supplies, which gives the skin an excellent chance of survival. Also, b/c the new skin needn’t be moved from one area to another, scars are frequently less noticeable.
Here’s how it works: A silicone balloon expander is inserted under the skin near the area to be repaired and then progressively filled with carbon dioxide or a salt-water solution. Over time, the expander is enlarged by inserting a needle into a gas cylinder or a self-sealing valve, letting the skin stretch and grow.
When the skin has expanded enough to cover the affected area, the plastic surgeon takes out the expander and repositions the new tissue. For breast reconstruction, the expander is removed and the permanent implant is inserted.
MOSA Surgery will support your health with skill, care and a forward-thinking approach. The quality of our work and will give you confidence in the durability and effectiveness of your plastic surgery treatment. Please call us today for an appointment.
By Mosa Plastic Surgery
January 2, 2025
