Tissue Expansion

Tissue expansion is a procedure in which an implant called a tissue expander is placed under the skin and gradually filled and enlarged to make the body grow additional skin to be used in reconstructive surgeries like breast reconstruction and reconstructive burn surgery. Using expanded skin instead of a skin flap or graft usually promises better results both concerning the treatment outcome and aesthetic aspects. It’s also less likely to cause side effects. However, it’s a long process, taking up to 3-4 months with weekly visits. And since skin health is a requirement for tissue expansion, it may not be applicable for severely damaged areas.