Introduction:
Tissue expansion is a surgical technique that involves the use of a silicone balloon expander to create additional skin for use in reconstructive surgery. The expander is inserted under the skin near the area to be repaired and is gradually filled with saline or carbon dioxide, causing the skin to stretch and grow. This technique is commonly used in breast reconstruction following a mastectomy, but it can also be utilized to repair skin damaged by congenital disorders, scars, and certain cosmetic procedures. In addition, it is a useful tool for restoring the appearance and function of damaged skin.
What Is Tissue Expansion Surgery?
Tissue expansion is a surgical procedure that helps create new skin tissues to replace damaged skin. This procedure is performed by plastic surgeons and can be used on almost any body area to repair skin damage due to congenital disabilities, injuries, or other acquired conditions.
It can also be used before reconstructive burn surgery to replace scar tissue at the burn injury site with new and healthy skin. During the procedure, a silicone balloon expander is placed under the skin around the area to be repaired. Tissue expansion is an effective way to restore the appearance and function of damaged skin.
What Are the Benefits of Tissue Expansion?
Tissue expansion is a surgical procedure that helps create new skin tissue by encouraging the growth of additional skin in different body areas. The procedure is often used in the face, neck, arms, hands, and legs, where the skin is thin and can stretch and grow quickly. Unlike skin flaps and grafts, tissue expansion carries fewer risks of side effects because the skin remains connected to the patient's blood and nerve supply, preserving the same color, texture, and hair-bearing qualities.
The scars from tissue expansion are also less visible because the skin is not moved from one area to another. This procedure is simple and safe for patients and can provide more benefits than traditional skin repair techniques because it allows for natural skin expansion. Tissue expansion can be an effective option for almost anyone who needs additional skin growth.
What Are the Limitations of Tissue Expansion?
Tissue expansion is not always the best option for skin repair. In areas of the body with thicker skin, such as the back and torso, tissue expansion may be less effective. It is also not suggested for utilization in severely damaged or scarred skin areas. One of the main drawbacks of tissue expansion is the time it takes for the new skin to grow, which can take several months, depending on the reconstructed area. Patients also need to visit the surgeon frequently to fill the expander, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, wearing an expander can be uncomfortable and highly visible in certain areas of the body, leading some patients to consider other options for skin repair.
What Are the Risks of Tissue Expansion Surgery?
While tissue expansion is a highly beneficial procedure that can produce excellent results, it can also cause complications, as with any surgery. One concern with tissue expansion is the possibility of leaks in the silicone balloon expander. While all expanders are tested for safety, leakage can still occur. Most of the time, the body can absorb the saline solution to fill the expander without any issues, but leakage can still pose a safety concern. In addition, it may require removing and cleaning the balloon and surrounding tissue.
Another potential complication is an infection of the skin around the expander, which can occur within the first few weeks after the procedure. This can be treated with medication in mild cases, but in more severe cases, the expander may need to be removed and reinserted once the skin has fully healed from the infection. In case of any inflammation or other persistent manifestations after tissue expansion, it is important to consult the surgeon, who can provide the necessary therapy.
What Are the Preoperative Measures of Tissue Expansion Surgery?
It is important for the surgeon to carefully evaluate whether the case is a good candidate for tissue expansion surgery before the procedure is performed, which may involve running tests to confirm the overall health and skin condition. The surgeon will also discuss the expectations for the surgery and provide all the necessary information to make an informed decision.
Preparing for tissue expansion surgery generally involves following the surgeon's specific instructions, such as quitting smoking for a few weeks before the procedure, following a specific diet, and avoiding certain vitamins and medications. During the initial consultation, the surgeon will also evaluate the medical history, perform a physical examination, take measurements and photographs for the medical record, and discuss the potential risks and complications of the procedure with the patient.
If the patient chooses to have surgery at a particular medical center, they may be given a preoperative information packet explaining everything they need to know before the surgery date. However, it is important to obey the surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome from the procedure.
What Are the Procedures of Tissue Expansion Surgery?
Tissue expansion surgery is typically performed using local anesthesia and a sedative, although general anesthesia may also be used. The procedure takes one to two hours and involves making a small incision near the area to be treated and inserting a silicone balloon expander. The expander has a tube with a valve that can be accessed just beneath the skin surface, allowing the surgeon to gradually fill it with saline to promote the growth of new skin. Once the skin has stretched sufficiently, a second surgery is needed to remove the expander and insert a permanent implant. This second surgery may cause discomfort and pain, but these effects should not last long. During recovery, the patient may be advised to take medication, rest, and exercise as necessary. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week after the second surgery. However, following the surgeon's recommendations is important to ensure the best possible outcome.
Conclusion:
The tissue expansion procedure promotes the healthy supplement growth of the skin and is used to replace damaged skin. This procedure can be used in all the different body areas, enabling the plastic surgeons who are doing the procedure to rectify the skin defect that congenital and acquired defects may cause.
